Transferring plates between your own vehicles in Delaware should be simple, but the Delaware switch tag fee for transferring plates between owned vehicles trips up a lot of drivers. Many assume it’s free or don’t realize the rules differ for specialty plates.
As of 2026, the standard fee is $10, and the process is quick if you have the right paperwork. Here’s what you need to know before heading to the DMV.
Quick Answer
The Delaware switch tag fee for transferring plates between owned vehicles is $10. This applies to standard plates. You must complete the transfer within 30 days of acquiring the new vehicle.
The fee covers the administrative cost of reassigning your existing plates. Specialty or vanity plates may have additional fees.
What the Delaware Switch Tag Fee Actually Means
This isn’t a new registration fee. It’s a small charge to move your existing plates from one vehicle to another you own. Think of it as a reassigning cost rather than a full registration renewal.
The fee only applies when both vehicles are under your name. If you’re transferring plates from a sold vehicle to a new purchase, the rules change slightly. The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles treats this as a plate swap, not a new issuance.
When You Need to Pay the Fee (and When You Don’t)
You’ll pay the $10 switch tag fee if you’re moving plates between two vehicles you currently own. This includes swapping plates from an old car to a new one, or between a car and a truck.
You won’t pay the fee if you’re surrendering plates entirely or registering a vehicle for the first time. Temporary plates or dealer-issued tags also follow different rules. If you’re unsure, the Delaware DMV has a full breakdown of plate transfer scenarios.
How Much the Delaware Switch Tag Fee Costs in 2026
The standard switch tag fee is $10. This has held steady for several years, with no announced increases as of 2026.
| Plate Type | Switch Tag Fee | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $10 | Most common for personal vehicles |
| Specialty | $10 + fee | Varies by plate design |
| Vanity | $10 + fee | Custom plate fees still apply |
| Temporary | Not applicable | Different process entirely |
Specialty and vanity plates keep their original fees on top of the $10 transfer cost. For example, if your specialty plate had a $40 annual fee, you’ll pay $10 to switch it plus the $40 renewal if it’s due.
Step-by-Step: How to Transfer Plates Between Your Own Vehicles
Start by gathering your documents. You’ll need the vehicle titles, current registrations, and proof of insurance for both vehicles. Without these, the DMV can’t process the transfer.
Next, visit a Delaware DMV office or use their online portal if eligible. Not all transfers can be done online, especially if there are liens on either vehicle. The in-person process typically takes 15-30 minutes if you have everything ready.
Submit your paperwork and pay the $10 fee. The DMV will update your registration and provide new documents reflecting the plate transfer. Keep these in your vehicle until the new registration arrives by mail.
Documents You’ll Need for a Smooth Transfer
You’ll need the title or registration for both vehicles. The DMV won’t process the transfer without proof of ownership.
Bring your Delaware driver’s license or state ID. They’ll verify your identity before making any changes to the registration.
Proof of insurance is mandatory for the vehicle receiving the plates. The policy must be active and in your name. If the insurance is under a different owner, the transfer will be denied.
Common Mistakes That Get Your Transfer Rejected
Submitting expired documents is the top reason for rejection. Double check that your registration and insurance are current before visiting the DMV.
Forgetting to sign the title or registration forms will also cause delays. The DMV requires all signatures to match the names on the documents.
Attempting to transfer plates between vehicles with different ownership will be denied. Both vehicles must be registered under your name to qualify for the switch tag fee.
Special Cases: Vanity, Specialty, and Temporary Plates
Vanity plates can be transferred, but you’ll pay the $10 switch tag fee plus any renewal fees for the custom plate. The DMV treats these as premium plates with additional costs.
Specialty plates follow the same rules as vanity plates. If your specialty plate has an annual fee, that fee still applies after the transfer.
Temporary plates cannot be transferred between vehicles. These are issued for specific purposes and must be returned or replaced with permanent plates.
Processing Time and What to Expect After Submitting
In-person transfers are usually completed on the spot. You’ll leave with updated registration documents and can use your plates immediately.
Online submissions take 1-2 weeks to process. You’ll receive your new registration by mail. Keep your old registration in the vehicle until the new one arrives.
If there are issues with your paperwork, the DMV will contact you by mail or phone. This can add several days to the processing time.
Where to Do It: Online vs. In-Person at Delaware DMV
Online transfers are available for standard plate swaps between owned vehicles. You’ll need to create an account on the Delaware DMV website to access this service.
In-person visits are required for specialty or vanity plates. You’ll also need to visit a DMV office if there are liens on either vehicle.
Some DMV offices have longer wait times than others. Check the Delaware DMV website for current wait times and to schedule an appointment if available.
FAQs About Delaware Plate Transfers
Can I transfer plates to a vehicle I just bought from a dealer?
No. Dealer purchases require new registration. The switch tag fee only applies to transfers between vehicles you already own.
Do I need a vehicle inspection for a plate transfer?
Not usually. Delaware doesn’t require inspections for standard plate transfers between owned vehicles.
What happens if I don’t transfer my plates within 30 days?
You’ll face late fees. The DMV considers this a registration violation. Penalties increase the longer you wait.
Can I transfer plates to a vehicle with a lien?
Yes, but you must provide the lienholder information. The DMV will note the lien on the new registration.
Is the switch tag fee the same for all plate types?
No. Standard plates cost $10. Specialty and vanity plates add their annual fees on top of the $10 transfer cost.
Can I do this by mail?
No. Delaware only processes plate transfers online or in person. Mail submissions aren’t accepted for this service.
Final Checklist Before You Start
Gather your vehicle titles and current registrations. Both must show your name as the owner.
Bring your Delaware driver’s license and proof of insurance. The insurance must cover the vehicle receiving the plates.
Check that all documents are current. Expired registration or insurance will delay the process.
Know your plate type. Standard plates cost $10 to transfer. Specialty and vanity plates have additional fees.
Decide how to submit. Online works for standard transfers. In-person is required for specialty plates or vehicles with liens.
Gather your vehicle titles and current registrations. Both must show your name as the owner.
Bring your Delaware driver’s license and proof of insurance. The insurance must cover the vehicle receiving the plates.
Check that all documents are current. Expired registration or insurance will delay the process.
Know your plate type. Standard plates cost $10 to transfer. Specialty and vanity plates have additional fees.
Decide how to submit. Online works for standard transfers. In-person is required for specialty plates or vehicles with liens.
