Delaware Car Dealer Fees & Taxes: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about buying a car in Delaware — sales tax, registration, title, doc fees, and more.
Delaware Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 0% |
| Registration Fee | $40 |
| Title Fee | $55 |
| Plate Fee | Included in registration |
| Inspection Fee | Not required |
| EV Surcharge | None |
| Dealer Doc Fee Cap | Not allowed |
| Total Base Govt Fees | $95 |
Note: No sales tax. 4.25% Document Fee (title tax) applies to vehicle purchase price. Doc fees not allowed by dealers.
Understanding Delaware Car Fees
Sales Tax
Delaware charges a 0% state sales tax on vehicle purchases. This means no state sales tax on your car purchase, though local municipalities may charge their own taxes.
Registration & Title
You will pay $40 for vehicle registration and $55 for a title transfer. Plate fees are included in the registration cost. These fees are paid to the Delaware DMV or motor vehicle division and are non-negotiable.
Dealer Documentation Fee
Delaware does not allow dealers to charge documentation fees. If a dealer tries to add one, it is not legally permissible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax on a car in Delaware?
The state sales tax rate in Delaware is 0%. Local jurisdictions may add additional taxes. No sales tax. 4.25% Document Fee (title tax) applies to vehicle purchase price. Doc fees not allowed by dealers.
How much are registration and title fees in Delaware?
Delaware charges $40 for vehicle registration and $55 for a title transfer. Total base government fees (registration + title + plates + inspection) come to $95.
Is there a dealer doc fee cap in Delaware?
Delaware does not allow dealers to charge documentation fees.
Does Delaware charge an EV surcharge?
No, Delaware does not currently charge a separate EV registration surcharge.
What is the total out-the-door cost on a $30,000 car in Delaware?
On a $30,000 vehicle in Delaware, expect approximately $0 in state sales tax (0%), plus $95 in base government fees (registration, title, plates, inspection). No dealer doc fee applies. Use our OTD calculator for a precise estimate including local taxes.
Other State Fee Guides
Fee data sourced from Delaware DMV and state revenue department. Updated for 2026.