What you need to register a vehicle in Delaware

Delaware registration requires you to submit proof of ownership, proof of Delaware residency, and a completed process form to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You'll also need to pass a vehicle inspection before registration is finalized, unless your vehicle is brand new or you're registering it for the first time in Delaware.

The process differs slightly depending on whether you're registering a new vehicle, transferring a registration from another state, or renewing an existing Delaware registration. New residents moving to Delaware have 30 days from establishing residency to register their vehicles with Delaware plates.

Key Takeaways

  • Delaware requires a vehicle inspection before registration, which must be performed by an authorized inspection station and costs between $20 and $30.
  • You'll need your title or proof of ownership, a completed Form MV-1 process, proof of Delaware residency (utility bill or lease), and a valid ID.
  • Registration fees in Delaware are based on vehicle weight and age, not on the vehicle's value like some states charge.
  • You can register your vehicle in person at any DMV office, by mail, or through an authorized third-party agent like a tag and title service.

Documents you'll need to bring

Start by gathering your vehicle's title or proof of ownership. If you're transferring from another state, bring the out-of-state title. If the title is held by a lender, you'll need written permission from the lender to register the vehicle, or the lender can send the title directly to the Delaware DMV.

You'll also need proof that you live in Delaware. The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government-issued mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring a valid driver's license or state ID. Complete Form MV-1 (process for Vehicle Registration) before you arrive at the DMV office or submit it by mail.

If you're registering a vehicle that's already been registered in Delaware, bring your current registration card. For vehicles with a lien, bring documentation showing the lienholder's name and address.

The vehicle inspection requirement

Delaware requires all vehicles to pass a safety and emissions inspection before registration. The inspection checks your brakes, lights, windshield wipers, horn, steering, suspension, and exhaust system. Emissions testing is required for vehicles model year 1996 and newer in New Castle County; older vehicles and vehicles in Kent and Sussex counties are exempt from emissions testing but still need the safety inspection.

You can have your vehicle inspected at any authorized inspection station in Delaware. The inspection costs between $20 and $30, depending on the station. Once you pass, the inspection station provides you with an inspection report that you'll need when you register. The inspection is valid for 30 days, so schedule it close to when you plan to register.

New vehicles (current model year) and vehicles being registered in Delaware for the first time from out of state are exempt from the inspection requirement for the initial registration only.

Registration fees and how they're calculated

Delaware registration fees are based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), not its value. The GVWR is listed on your vehicle's door jamb or in your owner's manual. Fees range from around $50 for lighter vehicles to over $200 for heavy trucks and commercial vehicles.

Your registration is valid for one year from the month you register. When you renew, you'll pay the same fee structure based on your vehicle's weight. Delaware does not charge sales tax on vehicle purchases, which is one reason many people register vehicles here, but you will owe registration fees and the inspection cost.

If you register a vehicle partway through the year, you pay a prorated fee based on the remaining months. The DMV can tell you the exact fee for your vehicle's weight class when you contact them or visit in person.

Where to register and how long it takes

You can register your vehicle at any of Delaware's DMV offices. The main office is in Dover, with satellite offices in Wilmington and Georgetown. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by location and time of day. You can also mail your completed Form MV-1, proof of inspection, title, and proof of residency to the DMV, along with a check or money order for the registration fee.

In-person registration typically takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all documents ready. By mail, processing takes 5 to 10 business days after the DMV receives your packet. Many tag and title service offices in Delaware can also handle registration for you, usually for an additional fee of $25 to $50.

Your registration card and plates will be mailed to you if you register by mail or through a third-party agent. If you register in person, you may receive temporary plates when ready and your permanent plates by mail within two weeks.

Registering a vehicle transferred from another state

If you're moving to Delaware with a vehicle registered in another state, you have 30 days to transfer the registration. Bring your out-of-state title, the vehicle inspection report, proof of Delaware residency, and your ID to the DMV. Complete Form MV-1 and pay the Delaware registration fee.

The DMV will issue you a Delaware title and registration. You do not need to keep your old plates; turn them in to your previous state's DMV if required, or straightforward remove them. Delaware will issue you new plates with the state's diamond-shaped logo.

If your out-of-state title has a lien on it, the lienholder information will transfer to your Delaware title. Contact your lender to confirm they have your new Delaware address on file.

Renewing your Delaware registration

Delaware sends renewal notices by mail about 30 days before your registration expires. You can renew by mail, in person at a DMV office, or through an authorized tag and title service. To renew, you'll need your current registration card, proof of a passing vehicle inspection (unless your vehicle is exempt), and payment for the renewal fee.

If you renew by mail, send your completed renewal form, inspection report, and payment to the address on your renewal notice. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days. You can renew in person at any DMV office with the same documents. Your new registration card will be mailed to you.

If your registration expires, you can still renew it, but you may face a late fee. Do not drive with an expired registration; you can be cited by law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register my vehicle online in Delaware?

Delaware does not offer online registration through the DMV website. You must register in person at a DMV office, by mail, or through an authorized tag and title service. Some third-party agents offer online ordering, but you'll still need to submit physical documents and payment.

What if I buy a vehicle from a private seller in Delaware?

Get a bill of sale signed by both you and the seller. Take the bill of sale, the seller's title (signed over to you), proof of inspection, proof of residency, and your ID to the DMV. The DMV will issue you a new title in your name and register the vehicle. You have 10 days from purchase to register it.

Do I need insurance before I can register my vehicle in Delaware?

Delaware does not require proof of insurance to register a vehicle, but you must carry liability insurance to drive legally on public roads. Have your insurance information ready before you drive, even if you haven't registered yet.

What happens if I move out of Delaware but keep my registration?

If you move to another state, you must register your vehicle in that state within the timeframe they require (usually 30 to 60 days). Driving with an out-of-state registration after establishing residency elsewhere is illegal. Contact your new state's DMV for their registration process.

Can I register a vehicle that doesn't have a title?

You must have a title or proof of ownership to register a vehicle in Delaware. If you've lost your title, contact the DMV to request a duplicate. If you bought the vehicle without a title, you'll need to work with the seller to obtain one before registration is possible.