If you have recently purchased an unregistered vehicle in Delaware, a temporary tag is required to drive it legally while you complete the registration process. The type of tag, its validity, and how you obtain it vary based on your situation.
This guide clarifies the different types of temporary tags in Delaware and provides a step-by-step process for getting one.
30-Day Temporary Tags from Delaware Dealers
When you purchase a vehicle from a licensed auto dealership in Delaware, the process for getting a temporary tag is simple, as the dealer typically handles it for you.
- Tag Type: 30-Day Temporary Tag
- Validity: This tag is valid for 30 days, providing sufficient time to finalize the official title and registration with the DMV.
- Cost: The fee is usually integrated into the dealer’s documentation charges, typically around $10.
- Process: The dealer will provide the 30-day temporary tag along with your purchase paperwork, allowing you to drive the car off the lot legally.
How to Get a 5-Day Delaware DMV Temporary Permit
If you purchase a car in a private sale or need to transport an otherwise unregistered vehicle. Getting the 5-day permit is just the first step. Here is the full process for registering a car from a private sale:
Step 1: Get the Signed Title & Insurance. Before you can get a permit, you must have the original title, signed over to you by the seller, and a valid Delaware insurance card for the “new” vehicle.
Step 2: Get Your 5-Day Permit. Go online (to the MyDMV portal) or in-person to the DMV with your title and proof of insurance. Pay the $20 fee and get your 5-day permit.
Step 3: Get the Vehicle Inspected (MANDATORY). During your 5-day window, you must drive the vehicle to a Delaware DMV inspection lane. This is a free inspection, and no appointment is needed.
Step 4: Get Your Permanent Plates. After your car passes inspection, you will park and immediately walk into the same DMV building (on the same day). You will present your passed inspection report, the signed title, and your application to get your permanent (metal) license plates.
Required Documents for a 5-Day Permit
Before applying, you must have the following documentation ready:
- Proof of valid Delaware auto insurance
- The original vehicle title or a bill of sale
- The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, and year
- Your valid driver’s license (If your license is currently suspended, you will not be eligible for a temporary tag until it has been fully reinstated.)
Application Steps: Online and In-Person
- Online: The most convenient method is to apply through the official Delaware MyDMV portal. You can enter your information, upload digital copies of your documents, and pay the $20 fee. Upon completion, you can print the temporary permit instantly.
- In-Person: You can visit a Delaware DMV office to apply in person. Bring all required documents and the $20 fee to pay at the service counter.
Note: To use the online MyDMV portal, you must have an existing Delaware Driver’s License or ID card to create an account. If you are a brand new resident, you will likely need to visit a DMV office in-person to get your first 5-day permit.
Delaware Temporary Tag Options
This table provides a quick comparison of the two types of temporary tags available in Delaware.
| Tag Type | Who Issues It? | Validity | Cost | Primary Use Case |
| 30-Day Tag | Licensed Dealer | 30 Days | ~$10 | Buying from a dealership |
| 5-Day Permit | DMV (Online/In-Person) | 5 Days | $20 | Private sale or vehicle transport |
Important Note: A temporary tag is for an unregistered vehicle. If your car is already registered but you have lost your permanent license plates, you should instead apply to get a duplicate license plate and sticker.and registration to receive new plates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, temporary tags are issued for a fixed period and cannot be extended in Delaware. It is crucial to complete the full vehicle registration process before your tag expires.
By the time the tag expires, you are legally required to have visited the DMV to obtain your permanent (metal) license plates and registration. It is illegal to operate a vehicle with an expired temporary tag.
Yes, the 5-Day Permit issued by the DMV is the official document that allows you to legally transport an unregistered vehicle within Delaware for the purpose of getting it inspected and registered.
Conclusion
Navigating the Delaware DMV is much simpler when you know which rules apply to your situation. Whether you receive a 30-day tag from your dealer or secure a 5-day permit from the DMV for a private sale, the most important final step is to complete your vehicle’s full registration before the temporary tag expires. Driving with a valid tag ensures you stay legal while getting your new car on the road.
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