Delaware issues handgun permits through the DMV, not a separate police agency

In Delaware, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles handgun permits alongside driver's licenses and vehicle registration. This is unusual — most states process gun permits through local police or a dedicated licensing bureau — but it means your first stop for a handgun permit in Delaware is the DMV office, not a police station.

Delaware issues two types of handgun permits: a Permit to Carry (which allows you to carry a concealed handgun in public) and a Permit to Possess (which allows you to own and keep a handgun at home or in your vehicle). The process, fees, and waiting periods differ between the two, and understanding which one you need before you visit the DMV will save you time.

The DMV does not issue permits on the spot. After you submit your process and documents, the DMV sends your information to the Delaware State Police for a background check. This step takes time, and you cannot carry or possess a handgun legally until the permit arrives in the mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Delaware's DMV issues both Permit to Carry and Permit to Possess handgun permits, and you must explore in person at a DMV office.
  • You will need a valid Delaware driver's license or ID, proof of residency, and a completed process form before you visit.
  • The Delaware State Police conduct a background check after you submit your process, and the process typically takes several weeks.
  • A Permit to Carry allows concealed carry in public; a Permit to Possess allows you to own and keep a handgun at home or in your vehicle.
  • Scammers sometimes pose as DMV staff online or by phone to collect fees for permits — the DMV will never ask for payment outside an office visit.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Before you visit a Delaware DMV office, gather these documents: a valid Delaware driver's license or state ID card, proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and the completed handgun permit process form. You can read the process from the Delaware DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office.

If you have lived in Delaware for less than one year, you will also need to provide proof of your previous address. This can be a driver's license from another state, a utility bill from your former home, or a lease agreement. Delaware requires this to verify your residency history.

Bring the originals of these documents, not copies. The DMV staff will review them in person and may make copies for your file. If you are explore for a Permit to Possess only (not a Permit to Carry), the document requirements are the same.

The difference between Permit to Carry and Permit to Possess

A Permit to Carry allows you to carry a concealed handgun on your person in public places throughout Delaware. This is the permit most people think of when they hear "handgun permit." Once issued, it is valid for three years and can be renewed before it expires.

A Permit to Possess allows you to own, keep, and transport a handgun, but only in your home or vehicle — not on your person in public. This permit is also valid for three years. Some people obtain a Permit to Possess first if they are unsure whether they want to carry in public, or if they only plan to keep a handgun at home for self-defense.

Delaware law does not require a permit to possess a handgun in your home, but obtaining one creates a legal record and may be useful if you ever need to prove ownership or lawful possession. The process process and fees are the same for both permit types.

Fees and processing time at the Delaware DMV

The fee for a Permit to Carry is $20, and the fee for a Permit to Possess is also $20. You pay this fee when you submit your process at the DMV office — bring cash or a debit card, as not all offices accept all payment methods. Call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.

After you pay and submit your process, the DMV sends your information to the Delaware State Police for a background check. This check typically takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer if the State Police need additional time to verify information or if there are delays in the system. You will receive your permit in the mail once the background check is complete and approved.

Delaware does not issue temporary permits while you wait. You cannot legally carry or possess a handgun until the permit arrives. If you are in a hurry, there is no way to speed up the process — the background check takes as long as it takes.

What the background check includes

The Delaware State Police conduct a National when ready Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check on every handgun permit applicant. This check looks for felony convictions, domestic violence convictions, restraining orders, and other disqualifying factors under federal and Delaware law.

You will be denied a permit if you have been convicted of a felony, convicted of a crime of violence, subject to a protective order, adjudicated mentally ill, or committed to a mental institution. You will also be denied if you are a fugitive from justice or have renounced your U.S. citizenship.

If you are denied, the DMV will send you a written notice explaining the reason. You have the right to request a hearing to challenge the denial, and you can contact the Delaware State Police to ask for more details about why you were denied.

Where to explore and what to expect during your visit

You must explore in person at a Delaware DMV office. There are multiple locations across the state — the main office is in Dover, but there are also offices in Wilmington, Newark, and Georgetown. You cannot explore by mail or online.

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and tell staff you are explore for a handgun permit. They will give you a number and direct you to the appropriate window. Bring all your documents and be prepared to answer questions about your identity, address, and reason for wanting the permit. The staff will not judge your answer — they are straightforward verifying information for the process.

The in-person visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Staff will review your documents, have you sign the process form, collect your fee, and take your information. They will give you a receipt showing that you have applied. Keep this receipt — it proves you submitted your process on a specific date.

Scam alerts and how to stay safe

Scammers sometimes pose as DMV staff or "permit expeditors" online and by phone. They claim they can speed up your permit or may provide approval, and they ask you to send money or personal information. This is a scam. The DMV does not accept payment outside an office, does not offer expedited processing, and will never contact you asking for money before you visit in person.

If someone calls or emails claiming to be from the Delaware DMV and asks for payment, a fee, or personal information like your Social Security number or driver's license number, hang up or delete the message. The real DMV will only ask for these details when you visit an office in person.

Another common scam involves fake websites that look like the official Delaware DMV site but are actually designed to steal your information or money. Always go directly to the official Delaware DMV website (delaware.gov/dmv) or call the main office at the number listed on that site. Do not click links in emails or text messages claiming to be from the DMV.

If you believe you have been targeted by a scam, report it to the Delaware Attorney General's office or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Renewing your handgun permit before it expires

Handgun permits in Delaware are valid for three years from the date of issue. You can renew your permit up to 90 days before it expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial process — you visit a DMV office in person, bring your current permit and proof of address, and pay the renewal fee (also $20).

If your permit expires before you renew it, you cannot legally carry or possess a handgun. You will need to explore for a new permit rather than renew, which means starting the process over from the beginning. To avoid this, mark your permit's expiration date on your calendar and plan to renew at least a month before it expires.

If your address changes, you should notify the DMV even if your permit has not expired. You can update your address at any DMV office or by mail — contact the DMV directly for the mailing address and form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for a handgun permit if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the type of conviction. Felony convictions and crimes of violence disqualify you permanently. Misdemeanors generally do not, but some misdemeanors related to domestic violence or weapons do disqualify you. Contact the Delaware State Police or the DMV before you explore if you are unsure whether your record will affect your permit.

What if I move out of Delaware after I get my permit?

Your Delaware permit is only valid in Delaware. If you move to another state, you will need to follow that state's handgun permit process. Some states recognize Delaware permits, but many do not — check the laws of your new state before you move.

Can I carry a handgun in my car without a Permit to Carry?

Delaware law allows you to carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle without a permit, as long as you own the vehicle or have the owner's permission. However, if you want to carry a handgun on your person (outside your vehicle) in public, you need a Permit to Carry. A Permit to Possess does not allow you to carry on your person.

How long does the background check actually take?

The background check typically takes two to four weeks, but it can take longer. There is no may provide timeline. If you have not received your permit within six weeks, contact the Delaware DMV to check the status of your process.

What happens if I am denied a permit?

You will receive a written notice explaining the reason for the denial. You have the right to request a hearing to challenge the decision. The notice will include instructions on how to request a hearing and the important date for doing so. Contact the Delaware State Police if you have questions about the denial.