Bought a vehicle in Delaware? Your paper tag gives you 30 days to complete registration. Here is who issues them, what the display rules are, and what happens if you buy from a private seller.
How Long Is a Delaware Temporary Tag Valid?
Delaware dealer-issued temporary tags are valid for 30 days from the date of issue. This is a hard deadline; there is no automatic extension. On day 31, the tag expires, and driving on it is a citable offense.
| Situation | Tag Validity | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Dealer purchase | 30 days | Complete registration at the county DMV before day 30 |
| Private-party purchase | None issued | Register at the Delaware DMV before driving |
| New Delaware resident | Out-of-state reg. valid | Register within 60 days of establishing residency |
| Title processing delay | Contact dealer | The dealer must resolve, do not drive on an expired tag |
Who Issues Delaware Temporary Tags?
Licensed Delaware Dealers
Any licensed Delaware motor vehicle dealer is authorized to issue one temporary tag per sale at the point of purchase. The tag is free; dealers may not charge a separate fee for it. The dealer is responsible for submitting your title application to the Delaware DMV within the required timeframe.
Delaware DMV offices
For private-party purchases and out-of-state transfers, the Delaware DMV can issue a temporary tag while your permanent registration is processed.
No other parties are authorized to issue Delaware temporary tags. Handwritten or printed tags from unofficial sources are not legal.
Buying From a Private Seller in Delaware
In Delaware, plates stay with the owner, not the vehicle. When you buy from a private individual, the seller removes their plates. You cannot legally drive the vehicle without either a temporary tag from the DMV or completed registration.
Visit a Delaware DMV office on the day of purchase if possible. Bring the following:
- Original title, properly signed and assigned by the seller, all liens released
- Bill of sale showing purchase price, date, and odometer reading
- Valid Delaware driver’s license or state ID
- Proof of Delaware liability insurance
- Payment for title transfer and registration fees
Display Requirements
Delaware law requires the temporary tag to be displayed in a specific position and manner.
Correct
- Mounted in the rear license plate bracket
- All printed information is fully visible
- Expiration date clearly legible from behind the vehicle
- Secured so it does not flutter or fall
Not permitted
- Displayed inside the rear window
- Covered with a frame or tinted sleeve
- Folded, torn, or altered in any way
Delaware winters are hard on paper tags; road spray and moisture can make them illegible quickly. A clear UV-protective sleeve that keeps all information visible is permitted and recommended.
What If My Delaware Temp Tag Expires?
Do not drive the vehicle. An expired temporary tag is treated as no registration and is citable under Delaware Code Title 21 § 2118. If the delay is due to the dealer failing to submit title paperwork on time, contact the dealership in writing. Delaware dealers are required to submit title applications within 30 days of sale.
If the delay is on your side, missing documentation, an out-of-state title complication, or an unreleased lien, visit a Delaware DMV office to understand what is needed and whether a short-term permit can be issued while the issue is resolved.
New Delaware Residents
If you move to Delaware, your out-of-state registration remains valid while you establish residency. Delaware requires you to register your vehicle within 60 days of establishing Delaware residency. No temporary tag is issued; your out-of-state plates remain legal on the vehicle until you complete Delaware registration.