How To Sign Your Delaware Title
This guide explains how to properly sign your Delaware vehicle title, helping you avoid common errors and know exactly where to print and sign your name. You’ll find visual examples of actual title layouts, clear instructions for situations involving multiple owners and direct links to official DMV contact information. By following each step carefully, you can ensure your title transfer is accurate, smooth and free of unnecessary complications.
The person (or persons)* listed on the front of the title must follow these steps, unless otherwise noted:
- Print your name (or names)* on the title where it says “Hand Printed Name(s) by Seller(s)”.
- Sign your name (or names)* on the title where it says “ Signature(s) of All Seller(s)”.
To help with your donation, we have showcased the various Delaware vehicle titles below as well as annotated on each title where to print and sign your name. To enlarge an image, simply click on the image. Questions? Give one of our friendly Title Clerks a call at (866) 233-8586.
Note: Actual title designs may vary slightly from the images shown above.
Note: Actual title designs may vary slightly from the images shown above.
Official Delaware Government Links & Contact Info
These official links make finishing your Delaware title transfer quick and easy. Find your local county title office, get details about your vehicle, see what to do with unclaimed or abandoned cars and read answers to common title questions. No matter where you live in Delaware, whether it’s Wilmington, Dover, Newark, Middletown, Smyrna or beyond, this resource can help you find the information you need. You can also download handy forms, saving time by having everything you need all in one place.
- County Title Offices
- Obtain Vehicle Specific Information
- Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles
- Vehicle Title FAQs
- Vehicle Title Forms
Contact the Delaware City Division of Motor Vehicles: (302) 326-5000
Contact the Greater Wilmington Division of Motor Vehicles: (302) 434-3200
Contact the Dover Division of Motor Vehicles: (302) 744-2500
Contact the Georgetown Division of Motor Vehicles: (302) 853-1000
Delaware Vehicle Titles: How To For Multiple Owners
If there is more than one owner listed on the title, one or both must sign it depending on how the names appear. See the below chart for details.
Remember, the name used to sign the title must match the name shown on the title exactly. Therefore, always remember to print/sign your name exactly as it is shown on the title.
|
John Doe OR Jane Doe |
If “OR” is present between the names, only one of the owners must sign the title. |
|
John Doe AND/OR Jane Doe |
If “AND/OR” is present between the names, both owners must sign the title. |
|
John Doe AND Jane Doe |
If “AND” is present between the names, both owners must sign the title. |
|
John Doe Jane Doe |
If there is nothing present between the names, both owners must sign the title. |
Please take note to adhere to the below instructions so as not to void your title.
- Do not use markers or pencils. Only blue or black pen are allowed.
- Do not cross out or strikethrough any text or writing.
- Do not use white-out or similar substances.
- Do not rip, tear, or tape the title.
- Do not doodle on the title.
Still Have Questions? Find Your Answer Below!
How Does Transferring a Title Protect Both the Buyer and the Seller?
Transferring a vehicle title in Delaware is a crucial legal step that safeguards both parties in a sale or donation. For sellers, completing the transfer removes their name from the title and releases them from future liability if the vehicle is involved in an accident, ticket or violation. For buyers, a properly signed and dated title provides proof of ownership, allowing them to register and insure the vehicle under their name. Without a valid transfer, ownership remains unclear, which can lead to fines, disputes or legal issues for both sides.
What Common Mistakes Do People Make When Handling Vehicle Titles?
The most common title errors include signing in the wrong section, leaving out the odometer reading or failing to print names exactly as they appear on the title. Some people also use correction fluid or cross out mistakes, which can void the document entirely. Another frequent issue is not having all listed owners sign when multiple names are on the title. Even small oversights can delay the transfer, so double-check the instructions before signing and always use blue or black ink.
How Can You Replace a Lost or Damaged Delaware Title?
If your vehicle title has been lost, stolen or damaged, you’ll need to apply for a duplicate before completing a transfer. To do this, fill out an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title (Form MV 213) and submit it to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), along with the required fee. You can do this in person or by mail. Once the duplicate title is issued, you can sign and transfer it just like an original. Attempting to transfer ownership without a valid title is not allowed.
What Steps Are Involved If You Still Owe Money on Your Vehicle?
If there’s an active lien on your vehicle, the lienholder must release it before the title can be transferred. After the loan is fully paid, the lender will send a lien release letter or electronically notify the Delaware DMV. In some cases, the lienholder may mail the title directly to the DMV once the balance is cleared. It’s important to verify with your lender that the lien has been fully released before proceeding with the transfer or donation process.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Complete a Title Transfer in Delaware?
In Delaware, most title transfers are processed within two to four weeks, depending on the method of submission and whether all paperwork is complete. If you visit a DMV office in person, you may receive the title and registration the same day. Mailed applications take longer, especially if corrections or additional documents are needed. To avoid delays, ensure that your title, forms and payments are accurate and complete before submission.
If you have questions about signing or transferring your Delaware vehicle title, the team at Goodwill Car Donations is happy to help. Contact us today for expert guidance to ensure your donation is handled quickly, smoothly and correctly.
Last Updated: October 14th, 2025