Delaware Dealer Doc Fees 2026: Not Allowed
Delaware prohibits dealer doc fees by law. Below: every fee that does apply (sales tax, registration, title) and how to verify your buyer's order. See every state’s doc fee cap and negotiation script.
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.
Sources & how to verify
Doc fee caps and DMV fees are set at the state level. The Delaware fees above come from the state’s vehicle code and DMV fee schedule. Verify the current year’s caps with the Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles before signing any dealer paperwork.
Federal context: the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Rule requires dealers to disclose all add-on fees upfront and prohibits charges that provide no benefit to the buyer. State attorneys general enforce these rules in addition to state-specific consumer protection statutes.
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.