Car Registration Requirements for New Delaware Residents
Individuals relocating to Delaware with a vehicle registered in another state must complete the registration transfer process within a specified timeframe after establishing residency. The Division of Motor Vehicles administers vehicle registration and titling procedures for all motor vehicles operated on state highways.
Timeline for New Delaware Residents
New residents must register within 60 days of establishing residency in Delaware. This requirement is codified under Title 21, Section 2102 of the Delaware Code. Failure to register during this period results in penalties.
The penalty structure for late registration includes fines ranging from $400 to $600 for a first offense. Subsequent violations carry increased fines of $800 to $1,200, potential imprisonment of 10 to 30 days, or both.
Establishing Delaware Residency
Delaware residency is determined by where an individual currently resides. The principal residence address is the location where a person presently resides in conformance with Delaware regulations. For vehicle registration purposes, the address provided must reflect the actual location where the individual maintains their primary residence.
Required Documentation for Car Registration in Delaware
Vehicle registration and titling in Delaware requires submission of multiple documents to the Division of Motor Vehicles. The following materials must be presented:
Title and Registration Documents
- Out-of-state vehicle title (original)
- Completed Application for Title (Form MV-212)
- Vehicle inspection report (Form MV-210) issued by DMV inspection technician
- Delaware driver's license or two acceptable proofs of Delaware residency
Insurance Documentation
Delaware law requires minimum insurance coverage for all registered motor vehicles. Proof of Delaware automobile insurance meeting the following minimum limits must be submitted:
| Coverage Type | Minimum Limit |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury per person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury per accident (two or more persons) | $50,000 |
| Property damage per accident | $10,000 |
Vehicle Identification Verification
All vehicles being titled in Delaware for the first time must undergo vehicle identification number verification. Vehicles seven model years or newer purchased from out-of-state sources require VIN verification at a DMV inspection facility. New car dealers are authorized to verify VINs on new vehicles.
Application Submission Methods
New residents may complete the registration process in person at any Division of Motor Vehicles facility. After passing the required safety and emissions inspections, applicants receive the completed Application for Title (Form MV-212) and inspection report from the DMV inspection technician. These documents, along with all other required materials, are then submitted at the DMV service counter.
Delaware Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Delaware operates a combined safety and emissions inspection program administered by the Division of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Inspections occur biennially for most vehicles, requiring passage of both safety and emission tests once every other year.
Inspections are performed at DMV facilities at no charge to vehicle owners.
For questions regarding emissions testing:
- New Castle County: 302-323-4542
- Kent and Sussex Counties: 302-739-9402
Registration Fees and Costs in Delaware
Delaware vehicle registration fees are calculated based on vehicle type, weight, and fuel source.
Standard Registration Fees
Passenger vehicles used for pleasure or carrying persons require a registration fee of $40 per year. Motorcycles carry a registration fee of $15 per year.
Commercial vehicles and trucks exceeding 5,000 pounds gross load weight pay $40 per year for the base weight, plus an additional $18 per year for every 1,000 pounds or fraction thereof above 5,000 pounds. The gross load weight includes the chassis, body, equipment, and maximum allowable load.
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Fees
Effective October 1, 2025, additional registration fees apply to alternative fuel vehicles. Electric vehicles with a gross load weight of 6,000 pounds or less pay an additional $110 per year. Plug-in electric vehicles pay an additional $85 per year. Non-plug-in electric vehicles pay an additional $60 per year for vehicles in the same weight category.
Document Fee
A document fee of 5.25% of the vehicle's value is assessed when titling a vehicle in Delaware, effective October 1, 2025.
License Plate Fees
Initial license plate issuance includes the cost of the plates themselves. Duplicate registration plates cost $5.00. Duplicate registration validation stickers also cost $5.00.
Late Registration Fee
A $20 late fee is imposed at the time of renewal if a Delaware registration has expired, provided the registration has not been expired for more than 12 months.
Contact Information
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
303 Transportation Circle, P.O. Box 698, Dover, DE 19903
Phone: (302) 744-2500
TTY: 1-800-232-5460
Official Website: Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program
Phone: (302) 739-9402
Official Website: DNREC Vehicle Inspection
