Delaware Car Bill of Sale: Form + Requirements
Delaware recommends a bill of sale for private vehicle transfers but doesn't strictly require one. Delaware has no general sales tax — instead, the state charges a Document Fee of 4.25% of the vehicle's purchase price at title transfer.
Is a bill of sale required in Delaware?
Recommended but not strictly required for title transfer.
Notarization
Not required.
State-specific form
Delaware doesn't publish a single mandatory bill of sale form. Generic templates with the required fields are acceptable.
The bill of sale should include:
- Seller's full legal name, address
- Buyer's full legal name, address
- Vehicle year, make, model, body type, VIN
- Odometer reading
- Sale price
- Date of sale
- Both signatures
Sales tax implications
Delaware has no general sales tax — but the state charges a Document Fee of 4.25% of the vehicle's purchase price (or NADA book value, whichever is higher) at title transfer. Functionally similar to a sales tax for vehicle purchases.
The buyer pays at DMV registration.
State-specific seller disclosures
- Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old
- Vehicle inspection: required at title transfer (every 2 years for vehicles 5+ years old)
- Salvage title disclosure: required if branded
- No emissions testing in most cases
Where to file
The buyer files at any Delaware DMV office within 30 days of sale.
For a more complete national reference, see the national bill of sale guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a bill of sale in Delaware?
Recommended but not strictly required.
Does Delaware require a notarized bill of sale?
No.
Does Delaware have sales tax on car sales?
No general sales tax. Delaware charges a Document Fee of 4.25% of the purchase price (or NADA book value, whichever is higher) at title transfer.
What form do I use?
Any generic bill of sale template with the required fields.
Where do I file the bill of sale?
At any Delaware DMV office, with the signed title. Within 30 days of sale.
Does Delaware require vehicle inspection?
Yes — every 2 years for vehicles 5+ years old, performed at the DMV at registration.
What if I lost the title in Delaware?
Apply for a duplicate at the DE DMV. $35 fee.
Should I disclose flaws on the bill of sale?
The "as-is" disclosure covers most. Disclose salvage or rebuilt status and major defects.
Selling a car in Delaware?
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