How To Get a Car Title in Delaware 2026
Delaware law mandates all vehicle owners to secure a certificate of title to document legal ownership of motor vehicles and trailers operated in the state. The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, an agency within the Department of Transportation, issues vehicle titles and preserves ownership records statewide. Applications must be filed within statutory deadlines after purchase or transfer to ensure regulatory compliance.
Where to Apply for a Delaware Certificate of Title
Delaware certificate of title applications are accepted at multiple authorized locations:
- Full Service Centers – Complete facilities in Dover, Georgetown, and Wilmington handling all title transactions
- Inspection Lanes – Dover and New Castle sites offering VIN verifications and select services
- Licensed Tag Agents – Private vendors throughout the state authorized for title processing
- Dealership Offices – Motor vehicle dealers may file applications for sold vehicles
- Postal Service – Completed packets may be mailed to the central processing facility
Required Documents for Title Application in Delaware
Delaware title applications require specific documentation to confirm ownership and meet statutory standards.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title Application (Form MV-212) | All owners must sign the completed form | Vehicle identification number, manufacturing details, and owner data required |
| Ownership Proof | Assigned Delaware title, endorsed out-of-state title, or manufacturer's origin certificate | Assignment section must contain seller signature and date |
| Fee Payment | Total including title and documentary charges | Amount varies by vehicle classification and transaction type |
| Insurance Verification | Current Delaware liability policy documentation | State minimum coverage must be active |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Certain transactions necessitate supplemental materials:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VIN Verification | Physical inspection validating vehicle identification | Mandatory for out-of-state vehicles and initial Delaware registrations |
| Lien Discharge | Proof of paid security interest | Necessary when prior title lists active lienholder |
| Purchase Record | Transaction documentation | Must detail price, date, and buyer-seller signatures |
| Representative Authorization | Notarized power of attorney | Required when agent acts on owner's behalf |
| Mileage Statement | Federal mandate for vehicles under ten years | Documented on title or separate disclosure |
| Sworn Statement | Clarification of document inconsistencies | Used when paperwork conflicts arise |
Delaware Title Fees and Costs
Delaware's Division of Motor Vehicles maintains uniform fees for title services across the state.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title with Lien | $55.00 | Certificate processing with security interest recorded |
| Title without Lien | $35.00 | Certificate processing without security interest |
| Registration Fee | Varies by vehicle weight | Calculated based on gross vehicle weight |
| Plate Fee | $20.00 | For new registrations requiring standard license plates |
Additional Processing Fees
Applicants should anticipate variable costs based on specific circumstances:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Document Fee (Transfer Tax) | 5.25% of value | Applied to purchase price or NADA book value, whichever is greater; minimum fee applies |
| Late Registration Penalty | $20.00 | Assessed for registrations not renewed by expiration date |
| Duplicate Title | $50.00 | Replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged certificates |
| Change Tag Fee | $35.00 | For transferring plates between vehicles |
| Corrected Title without Lien | $35.00 | For title corrections when no security interest exists |
| VIN Inspection Fee | $10.00 | Charged when verification is performed at DMV facility |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Collect Necessary Documents
Compile all required materials before starting the process. Secure the previous certificate with accurate seller assignment, confirming signatures and dates are complete. Out-of-state vehicles need VIN verification by authorized inspectors at division lanes or law enforcement offices. Confirm your Delaware insurance meets minimum liability standards. Gather transaction-specific items such as lien releases when applicable.
Step 2: Fill Out Application
Access and complete Title Application (Form MV-212) with exact vehicle details: full seventeen-digit identification number, model year, manufacturer, model, and body style. List the owner names as they should display on the certificate. Joint owners must designate "and" (all must sign for transfers) or "or" (any owner may transfer alone). Add lienholder name and address if financed. Original ink signatures from all owners are mandatory.
Step 3: Compute Payment
Calculate total fees using the division's fee structure. The sum includes the title fee, documentary charge, document tax on vehicle worth, weight-based registration, plate charges if needed, and optional expedited service. Payment options are cash, check, money order, or cards at service centers and tag agents.
Step 4: File Your Application
Deliver completed materials with documentation and payment to your chosen location. Visit any service facility or licensed agent during operation hours. Mail submissions go to:
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles PO Box 698, Dover, DE 19903.
Out-of-state titles must accompany the packet.
Step 5: Obtain Title Certificate
Once processed and approved, Delaware issues and mails the certificate to the proper recipient. Without a lien, the certificate goes to the owner's application address. With a lienholder, the paper title is sent to the lienholder, who keeps it until loan completion. After the loan payoff, the lienholder provides a written release or signs the certificate before forwarding to the owner or next lienholder.
Contact Information
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
303 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE 19901
Phone: (302) 760-2080
Official Website: Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
