Completing a Delaware car title transfer may feel confusing at first, especially if paperwork isn’t your thing. The good news is that the process is straightforward once you understand the requirements and timelines.
This guide explains exactly what you need to complete a title transfer in Delaware, whether the vehicle is in-state or out-of-state, and how a properly transferred, lien-free title can help you qualify for car title loans when you need fast cash.
What Is a Delaware Title Transfer?
A title transfer updates legal ownership of a vehicle with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This step is required when:
- Buying or selling a vehicle
- Moving to Delaware from another state
- Paying off a vehicle loan
Without a completed title transfer, you cannot legally register the vehicle, or use it for a title loan.
When Do You Need to Complete a Title Transfer in Delaware?
You are required to complete a Delaware title transfer if:
- You move to Delaware and establish residency (within 60 days)
- You sell or purchase a vehicle (within 30 days)
Missing the deadline may result in a $35 late fee, so timely action matters.
Everything You Need for a Delaware Title Transfer
All title transfers must be completed in person at a Delaware DMV location.
In State
- A completed assignment of the Certificate of Title section, located on the back of the title. It must include the buyer's name and address, sale date, purchase price, and odometer reading.
- Both the buyer and seller need to sign and date it.
- The seller must fill out the Proof of Sale section on the registration and send it to the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Proof of liability insurance accepted residency proof, and a Delaware driver's license are required.
- Fee payment of $55 if there's a loan on the car or $35 without a loan.
- A smog certification and vehicle inspection.
Out Of State
If you need an out-of-state title transfer, you will need to:
- Complete the vehicle purchase in another state.
- Bring the old title, bill of sale, and insurance proof to the DMV to get a 5-Day Temporary Tag.
- Take your vehicle to the Delaware inspection lane.
- After receiving an inspection certificate, take your paperwork to the DMV to get your title and registration.
Vehicle Inspection and Smog Requirements in Delaware
Delaware requires inspections when a vehicle is titled in the state for the first time and during registration renewals. Inspections evaluate safety systems and emissions levels.
Common Exemptions Include:
- Passenger vehicles older than model year 1967
- Vehicles manufactured within the last five years under 10,000 lbs
- Motorcycles
- Diesel vehicles manufactured before 1997
How to Transfer a Vehicle Title in Delaware
- Visit your nearest Delaware DMV
- Submit required documents, ID, and payment
- Receive a temporary title
- Get the official title mailed to you
If you buy from a dealership, the dealer typically handles this process. For private sales, it helps when both buyer and seller attend the DMV together.
Why Completing a Delaware Title Transfer Matters
Beyond legal ownership, a properly transferred title allows you to qualify for Delaware car title loans. A title loan requires:
- A lien-free title
- The title name to match your government-issued ID
Once transferred, your vehicle can be used to access fast cash, even if your credit history is less than perfect.
This makes title loans a practical option for people exploring loans for bad credit who need help with:
- Medical bills
- Emergency travel
- Home or car repairs
- Unexpected expenses
How Do Title Loans Work in Delaware?
Title loans allow you to borrow money using your vehicle title as collateral not the vehicle itself. You keep driving your car while repaying the loan.
Loan amounts typically range from $300 to $15,000, depending on your vehicle’s value.
For a simple breakdown of loan terms and expectations, visit our guide for how title loans work.
How To Get A Title Loan With Your Delaware Car Title
- Start by completing our easy-to-understand online form from our homepage.
- Keep your phone with you, as we'll call back as soon as we see your request come through.
- During our conversation, we'll ask where you prefer to meet. Don't feel you have to come to your nearest Delaware Title Loans, Inc. branch; we're happy to meet at your home or workplace.
- No matter where you decide to meet us, make sure you bring your:
- vehicle
- lien-free vehicle title
- government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license or passport)
- At the meeting, we'll verify your documents and appraise your vehicle to decide how much money we can lend.
- If you're happy with our consensus, we will take you through the remaining paperwork, requesting your signature at the same time.
- Finally, the money will appear in your bank account the next day. Some people get super lucky and receive it on the same day!
Apply For A Delaware Car Title Loan Today!
See? Doing a Delaware title loan isn't as complicated as it first seemed, and it opens up a new way to fund emergencies. Complete our easy online form or give us a call to kickstart your car title loan application right away.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.
