During Delaware learner-permit practice, where must the supervising driver sit?
Answer: In the seat beside the permit holder
Delaware’s DMV says the licensed companion must actually occupy a seat beside the permit holder.
Delaware official sourceDE / FOCUSED PRACTICESafe driving
Safe driving
for Delaware drivers.
Build space, awareness, and good decisions. Learn the general road principle, then check how your state handbook frames the decision.
Practice all safe driving questions SPACE GIVES YOU TIME TO THINK
Safe driving starts before you need an emergency maneuver. Attention, visibility, and space make ordinary surprises easier to manage.
Keep your attention on the drive
Set directions and adjust controls before moving. If a message or navigation problem needs attention, pull over in a safe place. Hands-free conversation can still compete for attention, even when your hands remain on the wheel.
Adapt your space to conditions
A comfortable gap on a dry road may be inadequate in rain or poor visibility. Leave additional room when stopping takes longer or your view is blocked. Avoid settling into another driver’s blind spot.
Recognize when to stop driving
Repeated yawning, drifting within a lane, and difficulty remembering recent miles can be signs of fatigue. Find a safe place to stop and rest. Opening a window is not a reliable treatment for sleepiness.
Remember: If visibility, traction, or attention gets worse, reduce demands on yourself: slow down, increase space, or stop somewhere safe.
NHTSA safety guidanceTry questions from your route.
State-focused questions appear first when available; general road-rule questions are labeled separately and do not replace Delaware law.
Your phone alerts you while you are driving. What is the safest choice?
Answer: Leave it alone and stop in a safe place if you must handle it
Reading or composing a message combines visual, manual, and mental distraction. Put the device away and handle it only when safely stopped; state laws may add specific restrictions.
NHTSA safety guidanceYou notice you are struggling to keep your eyes open on a long trip. What should you do?
Answer: Stop driving at a safe location and rest or arrange another way to travel
Drowsiness slows perception, judgment, and reactions. Stimulants and fresh air are not a reliable substitute for rest; remove yourself from the driving task before fatigue causes a mistake.
NHTSA safety guidanceRain begins and the roadway becomes slick. How should you adapt?
Answer: Reduce speed smoothly and increase the space available to stop
Wet roads can reduce traction and make stopping harder. Smoother inputs, lower speed, and more following room give you time to respond; the needed adjustment depends on conditions and vehicle handling.
NHTSA safety guidanceA vehicle ahead blocks your view of the road. What is the safest following strategy?
Answer: Increase following space so you can see around it and react to hazards
A blocked view removes your warning time. Extra space improves sight distance and gives you more room to brake if the larger vehicle stops suddenly or conceals a hazard.
Check the Delaware driver handbookCheck the details in Delaware.
Permit preparation context: A Delaware learner’s permit is issued after eye screening and knowledge exams and is valid for six months.
Permit preparation context: During permit practice, a qualified licensed driver at least 21 must occupy the seat beside the learner; no more than two other passengers may ride.
Use the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles driver handbook for the complete rule, exceptions, and current wording.