Delaware Vehicle Bill of Sale

Do I need a bill of sale to sell a car in Delaware?

A bill of sale is strongly recommended for all private vehicle sales in Delaware, though the assigned certificate of title is the operative transfer document. The Delaware DMV does not publish an official bill of sale form for private sales — a dealer's bill of sale is required only for dealership purchases. For private party sales, any document that records the buyer and seller names, VIN, sale price, odometer reading, date, and signatures serves as a valid bill of sale. The purchase price on the bill of sale determines the 4.25% document fee.

Does a Delaware bill of sale need to be notarized?

No. Delaware does not require notarization of the bill of sale or the title assignment for standard private-party sales. Signing in blue or black ink is sufficient. Notarization is optional and may provide additional protection but is not a legal requirement. The seller should also file a Seller's Report of Sale with the DMV to release liability for the vehicle after the transfer.

How long do I have to title a vehicle after purchase in Delaware?

The buyer has 30 calendar days from the date of purchase to apply for a title at a Delaware DMV office. A $35 late penalty fee applies if the deadline is missed, in addition to the standard title transfer fee. Delaware recommends that both parties complete the transfer together at a DMV office, where staff can verify the paperwork. The buyer can obtain a 5-day temporary tag for $20 to drive the vehicle to the DMV.

How is the vehicle tax calculated in Delaware?

Delaware has no general sales tax. Instead, the state charges a 4.25% motor vehicle document fee on the purchase price at the time of titling. For vehicles purchased below the NADA average trade-in value, the document fee may be assessed on the NADA value instead. A notarized bill of sale showing the actual purchase price can be used to support a lower assessment. Trade-in credits are allowed within 60 days of the purchase.

Is an odometer disclosure required in Delaware?

Yes. Federal law requires odometer disclosure for vehicles model year 2011 and newer (through 2030). In Delaware, the disclosure is captured in the assignment section on the back of the certificate of title. The seller records the mileage when completing the title assignment to the buyer. No separate odometer disclosure form is typically required for standard in-state transfers.

Are there inspections required to sell a car in Delaware?

Delaware does not require emissions testing or safety inspection specifically at the time of sale. Vehicles are subject to a biennial safety and emissions inspection as part of the registration renewal process. The seller is not required to provide a current inspection for the sale, but the buyer should be aware that the vehicle will need to pass inspection at the next registration renewal cycle.

What if the vehicle has multiple owners?

If the vehicle is titled to more than one person, all owners on the title must sign the bill of sale. Use the "Add a co-seller" option on the form to add the second seller's name and address. Both sellers' names and signature lines will appear on the document. For electronic signing, each co-owner can sign on the same device in sequence, or the document can be passed from one device to another via QR code or shared link. Both buyers can likewise be named on the bill of sale using the "Add a co-buyer" option.