Applying for a Car Registration in Delaware

You must obtain Delaware vehicle registration credentials whenever you purchase, acquire or inherit a new or used automobile from a dealership or private seller. However, the specific application process varies depending on where you acquire the vehicle. 

If you purchase an automobile from a licensed Delaware dealership, for instance, the dealer will typically forward your application materials directly to the State Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). 

To get new car registration credentials after purchasing or inheriting a vehicle from a private party, however, you must visit a local DMV office to manually submit your application materials.  

To learn more about these requirements and the steps you must take to register a newly acquired vehicle with the Delaware DMV, review the information below.

Getting DMV Registration for Privately Purchased Vehicles in Delaware

Before obtaining DMV car registration in DE credentials, you must complete several important steps. For instance, you must first purchase a valid automobile insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum insurance requirements. 

After purchasing the policy from a licensed insurer, you must visit a local DMV facility to submit the automobile for a safety inspection and/or vehicle identification number (VIN) verification. 

Note: If the vehicle was manufactured within the previous seven years, however, it may be exempt from passing a safety inspection. 

Getting Vehicle Registration Records in Delaware

“Where can I apply for car registration near me in Delaware?” is a question you may ask if you purchased a vehicle from an independent seller or inherited an automobile from a family member. 

In these cases, you must visit a local DMV office to register your newly acquired vehicle in person. You must also pay car registration taxes and fees during your DMV office visit. 

Once you arrive at a local DMV office to register your newly acquired vehicle, you will need to submit the following as part of the registration process: 

• Proof of automobile insurance
• Proof of passing a vehicle inspection and/or VIN verification
• A Delaware driver’s license or identification card 
• The vehicle’s reassigned certificate of title

Download our free guide for more information on what you will need for your registration application.

If you cannot present a valid Delaware driver’s license or identification card, you must submit two proofs of state residency.

Your Delaware Vehicle Registration Fees

When obtaining DE auto registration credentials for a privately purchased vehicle, you must provide the DMV agent with payment for any applicable registration taxes and fees. 

In most cases, you can provide payment in the form of cash, credit card, check or money order.

Still have questions about your registration application? Find your answers in our free guide.