Free Delaware Vehicle Bill of Sale (2026)
A Delaware vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that formally records the transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle from a seller to a buyer. It outlines the specifics of the transaction, including the purchase price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the date of sale, providing crucial liability protection for both the buyer and the seller.
In Delaware, a bill of sale is not strictly required by the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to transfer a title if the purchase price is explicitly listed on the back of the assigned title. However, submitting a bill of sale is highly recommended to substantiate the purchase price for the state's 4.25% vehicle document fee. Delaware does not legally require a vehicle bill of sale or the vehicle title to be notarized.
Delaware Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in Delaware. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
How to Sell a Vehicle and Transfer a Title in Delaware
Step 1: Negotiate the purchase price and terms with the seller. Ensure the buyer is aware that private vehicle sales in Delaware are strictly 'as-is' transactions.
Step 2: Complete the bill of sale with the legal names, addresses, purchase price, and vehicle details. Both parties must sign, and an Odometer Disclosure Statement must be completed on the title for vehicles under 20 years old.
Step 3: Notarization is not required for a vehicle bill of sale or title transfer in Delaware, but you may choose to have the signatures notarized for extra legal protection.
Step 4: The seller must complete the Assignment of Certificate of Title section on the back of the Delaware title. In Delaware, license plates generally stay with the vehicle unless the seller specifically requests a tag retention from the DMV prior to the sale. The seller must also detach and mail the 'Seller's Report of Sale' to the DMV.
Step 5: The buyer has 30 days to take the endorsed title, bill of sale, and proof of Delaware auto insurance to their local DMV office. If the vehicle's registration is expired or it is from out-of-state, it must pass a Delaware safety and emissions inspection before the title can be transferred.
Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware Vehicle Bills of Sale
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in Delaware?
While the Delaware DMV primarily relies on the properly assigned Certificate of Title to transfer ownership, a bill of sale is highly recommended. It serves as an official receipt, proves the purchase price for document fee calculations, and protects the seller from future liability.
Does a Delaware vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No, Delaware law does not require a vehicle bill of sale or the vehicle title to be notarized. The buyer and seller simply need to sign the documents, though notarization can offer additional peace of mind.
Can I write my own bill of sale in Delaware?
Yes, you can write your own bill of sale or use a generic printable PDF. The Delaware DMV accepts generic bills of sale as long as they include the vehicle details (VIN, make, model, year), purchase price, date of sale, and the signatures of both the buyer and the seller.
Are private vehicle sales in Delaware considered 'as-is'?
Yes, private vehicle sales in Delaware are legally considered 'as-is'. Delaware's Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles or leased vehicles. Buyers are strictly responsible for inspecting the vehicle thoroughly before finalizing the transaction.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in Delaware?
Delaware does not charge a traditional sales tax on vehicles. Instead, the DMV assesses a Vehicle Document Fee of 4.25%. This fee is calculated based on the purchase price listed on the bill of sale or the current NADA average trade-in value of the vehicle, whichever is higher.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the Delaware DMV?
To transfer the title, the buyer must bring the fully assigned Delaware Certificate of Title, a valid Delaware driver's license, proof of valid Delaware auto insurance, the bill of sale (to verify purchase price), and payment for the 4.25% document fee and registration fees. If the vehicle is from out-of-state or the current registration is expired, a passing Delaware emissions and safety inspection report is also required.