Selling a vehicle in Delaware is fairly straightforward, but sellers who skip a step can face rejected paperwork, delays at registration, or lingering responsibility for a car they no longer own. Delaware places emphasis on proper title transfer, inspection requirements for registration, and correct plate handling. Understanding these rules before you sell keeps the process clean and protects you after the sale.
This guide explains exactly how to sell a car in Delaware, whether it’s running or not, newer or older, privately owned or still financed.
What Delaware Requires Before You Sell
Delaware requires a valid certificate of title for most vehicle sales. Before selling, confirm:
- Your name matches the title exactly
- All owners listed on the title are available to sign
- Any lien listed on the title has been fully paid and released
- The VIN on the vehicle matches the title
Delaware does not require notarization of vehicle titles, which simplifies the signing process.
Title and Paperwork Rules in Delaware
Title Signing
When selling a vehicle in Delaware:
- The seller signs the title exactly as printed
- All owners listed must sign unless the title clearly states “OR”
- No notarization is required
- Cross-outs, white-out, or missing fields can delay registration
Titles should be completed carefully and legibly to avoid post-sale complications.
Odometer Disclosure
Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles that are not mileage-exempt due to age. Mileage must be recorded accurately at the time of sale. Incorrect mileage statements can cause registration delays and legal issues later.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is recommended in Delaware. While the title transfers ownership, a bill of sale provides written proof of:
- Sale date
- Purchase price
- Buyer and seller information
This document is especially helpful if questions arise after the sale.
Inspections and Registration in Delaware
Delaware requires safety inspections for vehicles being registered. While inspections are typically handled by the buyer after purchase, sellers should understand that:
- Vehicles that will not pass inspection may be harder to sell privately
- Buyers often negotiate pricing based on inspection risk
- Some vehicles may qualify for inspection exemptions based on age or type
Being upfront about a vehicle’s condition helps avoid disputes.
License Plates, Registration, and Seller Responsibility
In Delaware:
- License plates stay with the seller, not the vehicle
- Sellers should remove plates before releasing the car
- Buyers must register the vehicle and obtain their own plates
Leaving plates on a sold vehicle can result in parking tickets, toll violations, or liability issues being traced back to the seller.
Taxes and Fees
- Buyers are responsible for document fees, registration fees, and applicable taxes
- Sellers are not responsible for buyer taxes after the sale
- Accurately documenting the sale date protects the seller
Keep copies of all paperwork for your records.
Special Situations Delaware Sellers Should Understand
- Selling with a lien: Vehicles with an active lien cannot legally be sold unless the lien is paid off and released before ownership transfers.
- Two names on the title: If two owners are listed, both must usually sign unless the title states “OR.”
- Lost title: Replacing a lost or damaged title before selling avoids delays and buyer hesitation.
- Non-running vehicles: Delaware allows the sale of non-running vehicles, but inspection requirements often affect value and buyer options.
Getting Paid Safely
Private sales always carry payment risk. Fake cashier’s checks, delayed payments, and buyers using third-party transport stories are common. Never release the vehicle or title until payment is verified and fully cleared.
For many sellers, reducing risk is more important than navigating private-sale uncertainty.
A Simplified Route for Delaware Sellers
Between title accuracy, inspections, and plate removal, selling a car in Delaware can take more effort than expected. For sellers who prefer a more direct path, CarBuyerUSA works with vehicle owners across Delaware and nationwide, purchasing vehicles in a wide range of conditions.
We help remove uncertainty, guide sellers through paperwork, and arrange pickup without the delays and stress of private listings. If you want to sell your car in Delaware with fewer steps and fewer risks, CarBuyerUSA.com offers a straightforward alternative.
