Delaware Vehicle Registration

Delaware state law requires that vehicle owners must complete a DE vehicle registration with the Division of Motor Vehicles before driving them on the road. Both second-hand and new motor vehicles must complete DE vehicle registration with the Division of Motor Vehicles, regardless of if they are purchased from an individual or a dealer. Additionally, any new Delaware residents who have vehicles that are registered out of state are required to must also complete DE vehicle registration. Initial vehicle registration has to be done in person, and afterwards, DMV registration renewals need be done annually, either by mail or in person. Initial DE vehicle registration has to be done within thirty (30) days, or sixty 60 days for new residents of Delaware.

First time Delaware Vehicle Registration

If this is your first DE vehicle registration, you will first be required to have your motor vehicle inspected for emissions. These inspections must be performed at either an inspection station or by an inspector who has been licensed to do so by the Division of Motor Vehicles. After the vehicle passes inspection, you will receive an inspection certification. Next, you must complete your vehicle title and registration form, which is available at your local DMV office.

When you have completed these two steps, you can go to a local DMV office and present your completed title and registration form along with your inspection certification. Additionally, you will also need to provide the DMV proof of liability insurance as well odometer reading if your vehicle is less than ten years old.

For motor vehicles that have not completed DE vehicle registration and are registered in a different state, you will also need to bring a copy of your out-of-state vehicle title. If it is not available, you can bring your registration document with your proof of sales tax payment.

Temporary Delaware Vehicle Registration

If you are required to have temporary DE registration, you may apply for it at a local DMV office. You will also need to show proof of insurance, ownership, and residency. The fee for a temporary Delaware vehicle registration is $10. This Delaware vehicle registration is valid for thirty (30) days.

Delaware Vehicle Registration Fees

When you are completing your Delaware vehicle registration at a local DMV, you will have to pay a certain amount of fees:

• DE Registration fee which can vary depending on your vehicle’s model year or total weight. Usually, this Delaware vehicle registration fee will range from $40 to $50. If you are completing your Delaware vehicle registration, the fee is $40 for one year and $80 for two years. New vehicles that are being titled for the first time may be registered for a maximum of 5 years by paying a fee of $200.This option is only available for specific models of vehicles.
• The title application fee depends on the county but is usually around $35 with a lien or $25 without one during DE registration
• If you are a brand new resident of the State of Delaware and have purchased a vehicle within 90 days of your change of residency, you might be eligible for credit on transfer tax or sales tax based on the amount paid in your previous state.

There can be additional fees when upon Delaware vehicle registration, depending on your specific county.

DMV Registration Renewal of your Delaware Vehicle Registration

The Division of Motor Vehicles notifies Delaware vehicle owners about the expiration date of their registrations by mail approximately ninety (90) days in advance. Delaware vehicle registrations can be renewed up to ninety 90 days before the expiration of the old registration either through in person or through the mail. For motor vehicles that are more than five years old, they will also require a vehicle inspection before DMV renewal registration.

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