How to Renew a Car Registration in Delaware

You must apply for a car registration renewal in Delaware before your vehicle’s registration expire, as driving an automobile without valid credentials is unlawful. 

As a reminder to apply for DMV registration renewal in a timely manner, you will receive a notification 30, 60 and 90 days before your license plates are due to expire. 

Review the sections below to learn more about these requirements and the process to renew your registration credentials. 

Inspection Requirements for Delaware License Plate Renewal 

The specific Delaware license plate sticker tag renewal application process varies depending on several factors.

If your vehicle was manufactured more than seven years ago, for instance, it must pass an inspection before you can renew your registration credentials with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Otherwise, it does not need to pass an inspection prior to renewal. 

If your vehicle’s model is six years old during the time at which you renew, it does not need to pass an inspection prior to renewal. However, you can only renew the vehicle’s registration credentials for a one-year period. At the end of the one-year registration renewal period, the vehicle must pass an inspection before you may renew its registration credentials. 

Renewing DMV Car Registration in Delaware

To perform your DE car reg check and renewal before your vehicle’s license plates expire, refer to the renewal package you received from the Delaware DMV. 

This renewal package provides you with specific instructions for renewing your registration credentials, as well as any inspection requirements you must meet. Typically, the DMV sends these renewal packages by mail or email. 

Depending on the specific situation, you may be eligible to submit your renewal package by mail. Otherwise, you must visit a local DMV office to submit your renewal application in person. 

Note: In some cases, you may be able to expedite the application process by renewing online or at a DMV Drive-Thru window.  

Vehicle Registration Renewal in Person or By Mail

Whether you perform your car registration check and renewal in person or by mail, you must provide the Delaware DMV with the following:

• Proof of a valid liability insurance policy
• A valid driver’s license
• Your vehicle’s current registration card
• A vehicle odometer reading
• Proof of passing a vehicle inspection,  if applicable
• Payment for any required fees

Download our guide for a list of acceptable documents you can bring as proof. 

Checking Your Vehicle Registration Status Online in Delaware

In some cases, you can renew your registration online in DE by logging into the DMV’s Online Services portal. 

However, you must be able to login to your existing account by providing a username and password, or registering for online account access.