Updated on July 15, 2021
If you just moved to Delaware, you have 60 days to register your vehicle from out of state. You need proof of insurance, proof of passing inspection and the out-of-state title for proof of ownership. A safety inspection typically involves tire and brakes verifications, as well as exhaust emissions check-up and testing the fuel system for leaks.
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If you bought a car from a private seller, you have 30 days to get your tags, and you can choose to register for one or two years. For registration renewals in the First State, you have up to 90 days before tags expiration date to renew. Continue reading for more details about Delaware tags and registration renewals process.
Delaware Vehicle Registration Renewal Guide
How to Renew A Vehicle Registration In Delaware
When your registration expires in the state of Delaware you are expected to renew it on your own meaning that the DMV of the state does not automatically send out renewal notices. If you wish to receive a notice you will need to register with the Delaware DMV.
This is not particularly difficult and only requires that you provide some standard information about yourself and your vehicle. If you’d find renewal notices helpful in the future, please contact the Delaware DMV.
Vehicle Emissions Testing and Vehicle Registration Renewal
The state requires certain vehicles to undergo an emissions test.
If your vehicle was built during the period between 1968 through 1980, you will need to have an idle emissions test. Vehicles from 1981 through 1995 have to undergo a low and high speed emissions test. Vehicles built from 1996 onward will need to have an onboard diagnostic test.
You are allowed to renew your registration either in person or by mail, based on your eligibility. In order to renew your registration by mail your vehicle has to meet the following criteria:
- Be less than 4 years old
- Have a weight of 10000 pounds or less
- Not need an inspection
If your car meets the requirements you will need to follow the instructions provided in the registration package that will be sent to you by the DMV.
In all other cases, you can renew your registration in person at any DMV office in the state. You will need to bring the following:
- Proof of auto insurance
- Proof that the vehicle passed inspection
- Odometer reading
- Driver’s license
- Current registration
- Payment
How to Replace a Lost, Stolen or Damaged Vehicle Registration in Delaware
You must be wondering how to replace a vehicle registration in Delaware. Good news! You’ve come to the right place. We’ve got all the links, info and answers you need to get the documents and license plates you need for your ride.
If you have any questions about your Delaware vehicle registration or drivers license, you will be dealing with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles. You can find extensive information about all their services on their website.
If you can’t find the answer to your question, you can always give them a call at 302.326.5000 or contact their Online Chat during regular business hours for immediate assistance.
If it’s time to renew your registration, you will be heading off to your local DMV office with $20 and your inspection certificate.
However, if you misplaced the unexpired paper document or need to replace your license plates, that is a different process.
If you accidentally tossed out your paper registration while cleaning out your car, it’s no big thing to get it replaced. Bring your car’s title, the vehicle identification number, the registered plate number and your driver’s license to your local DMV office.
It will cost just $10 and you will go home with a new certificate. Easy!
Replacing Stolen Delaware License Plates
What should I do if my license plates or plate sticker was stolen?
When you head out to your car in the morning and notice you are missing one of your license plates, immediately call the police department and file a report. Keep a copy of the report and bring it with you to your DMV office. You will order new plates.
It is best to ask for a new number so that you aren’t pulled over for driving with stolen plates. The DMV will issue you temporary tags to use until you get your new plates in the mail. The duplicate plates cost just $10. You will want to turn in the plate that was not stolen.
Missing Delaware Vehicle Verification Decal
I need to replace my vehicle registration decal. What should I do?
The verification decal shows that you have paid for your vehicle registration renewal. If it falls off your license plate, you will just bring in your paper registration to the DMV, pay $10 and get a new decal.
Where to Get a Replacement Vehicle Registration
There are four DMV offices located throughout the state. They are all open 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
On Wednesday they are open Noon to 8 PM so that you can take care of business in the evening if needed. Check the website before you go for projected wait times.
Replacement Registration Fees In Delaware
How much does it cost to replace my vehicle registration or license plate sticker in Delaware?
Whether you are getting a replacement car registration, plates, or a decal, it will cost $10. For a complete list of fees, click here.
Can I Get a Replacement Car Registration Online in Delaware?
Even though Delaware does offer online license renewals, they do not do registrations online.
Replacing Old License Plates In Delaware
What if my license plates are damaged or really old? Can I replace them? How do I discard my old plates?
If you can no longer read your rusting, chipped, or dented plates, it’s time to have them replaced. It’s the same process as when one gets stolen. Bring the old plates to the DMV office, pay $10, and order duplicate plates.
You will receive new plates with your same number in the mail in a week or two.
Replacing Your Plates with Specialty or Vanity Plates
In Delaware, there is a wide variety of specialty plates available. They cost $50 to apply for and then require an additional $40 renewal fee per year in addition to your regular registration fees.
Check out the complete list of available plates here.
If you have any more questions about your Delaware replacement registration, remember you can call the DMV at 302.326.5000 or visit their website and click on the Online Chat button in the top left corner for prompt and accurate assistance.