The Delaware Road Test Cheat Sheet: Key Rules & Maneuvers to Pass

Your Delaware road test is scheduled, you've practiced, and now it's time for a final review. This guide is your ultimate "cheat sheet"—not for cheating, but for cementing the most critical information in your mind right before you take the wheel.

A key thing to remember is that the Delaware road test is conducted on a closed DMV course, not on public streets. This means you will be tested on a very specific set of maneuvers. Focus on these, know the key numbers, and you'll be on your way to passing.

The On-Course Maneuvers You MUST Master

The examiner will direct you through a course designed to test these specific skills. There are no surprises; practice these until they are second nature.

Parallel Parking: This is a major component. You will be parking between cones or markers. You are allowed one pull-up to correct your position. Hitting a cone is a serious error.
Three-Point Turn (K-Turn): The examiner will look for smooth control, proper observation (checking for traffic even on a closed course), and efficiency.
Backing Up Straight: You will be required to back your vehicle in a straight line for 50 feet. The key is to turn your head and look over your right shoulder through the rear window, not just use your mirrors or backup camera.
Quick Stop: You may be asked to accelerate to about 20 mph and then make a quick, safe stop when instructed. This tests your reaction time and braking control.
Serpentine Maneuver: Some courses may include a serpentine or weaving maneuver through a set of cones to test your steering accuracy and control.
Responding to Traffic Controls: The course will have stop signs and possibly traffic lights. You must obey them perfectly.

The Numbers Game: Critical Figures for Delaware Drivers

Knowing these numbers demonstrates you've studied the Delaware Driver Manual and are ready for the road.

Speed Limits (Unless Posted Otherwise)

Residential & Business Districts: 25 mph
School Zones: 20 mph (when posted and active)
Two-Lane Roads: 50 mph
Four-Lane Highways/Divided Highways: 55 mph
I-495 & Route 1: Up to 65 mph

Critical Distances for Parking & Signaling

Your examiner will be watching your precision and adherence to these rules.

Turn Signal: You must signal continuously for at least the last 300 feet before turning or changing lanes.
Parking from a Fire Hydrant: Do not park within 15 feet.
Parking from a Crosswalk: Do not park within 20 feet.
Parking from a Stop Sign or Traffic Signal: Do not park within 30 feet.
Parking from a Railroad Crossing: Do not park within 50 feet.

Fundamental Rules of the Road: Examiner's Focus Points

These are the non-negotiable rules that show you are a safe, defensive driver.

Right-of-Way and Intersections

Complete Stops: You must come to a full, complete stop behind the white line. A "rolling stop" is a common reason for failure. The car should settle back after stopping.
Right on Red: You can turn right on a red light after a full stop, unless a sign prohibits it. You must yield to all cross-traffic and pedestrians. If you are uncomfortable, you can wait for the green light.
Four-Way Stops: The first car to stop is the first to go. If two cars stop at the same time, the car on the right has the right-of-way.
Moving to the Right Lane: After making a left turn, you should safely move to the right lane as soon as possible, as slower traffic must keep right. The examiner will not tell you to do this.

Automatic Fails: Instant Test Enders

Making one of these critical errors will likely result in an immediate failure, no matter how well you've done on other parts of the test.

Striking an Object: Hitting a cone, curb, or any fixed object.
Vehicle Fails Inspection: Your test will be canceled if your lights, horn, or other safety equipment doesn't work.
Examiner Intervention: If the examiner has to grab the steering wheel or give you verbal assistance to avoid a hazard.
Ignoring a Sign or Signal: Failing to stop at a stop sign on the course.
Lack of Control: Showing consistently poor steering or braking that is jerky and unsafe.
Not Looking: Failure to check blind spots or look behind you when backing up is a major safety violation.

Use this cheat sheet to focus your final practice session. Go over the maneuvers on the list, quiz yourself on the numbers, and commit the core safety rules to memory. You've prepared for this moment. Now go show the examiner the safe, confident driver you are!