Delaware used car dealer paperwork and sales tax guide
How Delaware sales tax works on a used-car deal, how trade-ins and dealer fees are treated, and the title forms and notices a Delaware dealer prints.
Last checked November 14, 2026
This is a plain-language summary of how a used-car deal works out in Delaware: the sales tax, what happens to a trade-in, how dealer fees are treated, and the paperwork a dealer prints. DMS Apex uses these same rules to work out each Delaware deal.
Delaware tax and fees at a glance
| Item | Delaware |
|---|---|
| State tax | 5.25% state rate |
| Who pays it | Buyer, at titling or registration |
| Trade-in | Reduces the tax |
| Dealer administrative fee | Not part of the taxable amount |
| Service contract | Not taxed |
| Starting title fee in DMS Apex | $35 |
How Delaware sales tax is worked out
Delaware has no sales tax. The buyer pays a 5.25% document fee (minimum $13.75) to the DMV at titling on the price less a Delaware-titled trade-in, so the amount shown is an estimate and is not added to what is due now; a manufacturer rebate is not deducted. The Buyer's Order must itemize each fee collected. Title fee starts at $35. The tax is the rate on each $100 or fraction of it, in whole dollars, with a minimum of $8.00 under $400 and $13.75 otherwise. A trade-in counts only when it is Delaware-titled and only up to the fee paid on it: confirm with the DMV.
Delaware paperwork a dealer prints
DMS Apex prints these documents for a Delaware deal, all in black and white:
- Buyer's Order with every fee itemized
- Buyers Guide
Step-by-step form guides
- MV212 Application for Title: how to fill it out
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Delaware rules change: confirm current requirements with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.
Common questions
How much is sales tax on a used car in Delaware?
5.25% state rate. A trade-in reduces the taxable amount. See the table above and confirm the current rate with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.
Does a trade-in lower the tax in Delaware?
Yes. In Delaware the trade-in allowance reduces the amount the tax is figured on.
Is the dealer fee taxed in Delaware?
No. In DMS Apex the dealer administrative fee is not part of the taxable amount for Delaware.
Does DMS Apex print Delaware dealer forms?
Yes. It prints Buyer's Order with every fee itemized, Buyers Guide.
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