Delaware: titling an imported car
Delaware's DMV requires proof of FMVSS compliance or exemption for imports under 25 years old and lists CBP, HS-7 and EPA 3520-1 paperwork.
Sources checked 2026-10-17. Not legal advice; rules change.
At a glance
- Import ease (where verified): Process documented; 25-year treatment not stated in the sources read. Rule is stated only for vehicles under 25 years old; treatment of 25+ vehicles is not spelled out.
- Kei / mini-truck: No kei or mini-truck rule found in the sources read. No kei or mini-truck rule found in the official pages read.
What the official sources say
- Delaware DMV: 'All imported vehicles under 25 years old must provide proof of compliance with, or exemption from FMVSS before being eligible for Delaware titling and registration. If the vehicle is exempt from FMVSS, you will need the correct documents to be submitted.' It also says vehicles manufactured not more than 25 model years ago are subject to FMVSS and emissions requirements and cannot be titled without proof of conformity.
Source: Delaware DMV: Import Vehicle Procedure - Documents: authentic ownership document (existing title, prior registration, MCO/MSO or foreign registration) with English translation; ID (license, ID card or passport); CBP form 7501 or 3461 with Customs stamp, electronic signature or ACE documents; completed HS-7; a copy of EPA Form 3520-1 submitted to Customs; proof of Delaware insurance; bill of sale if applicable; and Delaware application MV212, obtained during the DMV inspection.
Source: Delaware DMV: Import Vehicle Procedure - Delaware says imported vehicles must meet the standards of 2 Admin Code §2278 and are subject to management review for document correctness; vehicles shipped from Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico do not need to follow the import procedure but must still pass state and federal standards.
Source: Delaware DMV: Import Vehicle Procedure
Not verified (do not rely on ImportClock for these)
- The page frames its rule for vehicles under 25 years old and never says in terms that a 25-year-old vehicle can be titled; it also mixes 'model years' and 'years old'.
- 2 DE Admin Code §2278 was not read; the regulations site returned almost no text.
- No kei or mini-truck rule was found; Delaware emissions inspection details were not verified.