Delaware / passenger car and alternative fuel
Delaware car registration fee calculator
The ordinary passenger-car base is $40 per year. Since October 1, 2025, Delaware also collects a separate annual fee for hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery-electric cars and other alternative-fuel vehicles. The fuel class and registered gross load weight determine that addition.
Reviewed October 1, 2026 against Delaware Code sections 2151 and 2151A and DMV collection guidance.
Use the passenger class and approved term
A 6,000-pound vehicle stays in the lowest AFV band
The statute uses 6,000 pounds or less for the first band. A weight over 6,000 through 10,000 pounds uses the next band. Do not use the car's curb weight when the DMV registration uses a different gross load weight.
| Gross load weight | Non-plug-in hybrid | Plug-in hybrid | Electric / other fuel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6,000 lb or less | $60 | $85 | $110 |
| Over 6,000–10,000 lb | $80 | $115 | $150 |
| Over 10,000–26,000 lb | $140 | $200 | $260 |
| Over 26,000 lb | $480 | $600 | $900 |
A passenger EV at 6,000 pounds has $40 + $110 = $150 for one year, or $300 for two full years. In the next weight band those figures become $190 and $380. An ordinary hybrid in the lowest band is $100 annually; a plug-in hybrid is $125. Choosing “hybrid” for both would understate the plug-in charge.
These AFV bands apply separately from the registration classification. Trucks and other non-passenger vehicles can have a weight-based base fee under section 2151(3); this passenger calculator does not apply that schedule.
Match the AFV payment to the registration period
DMV says the alternative-fuel amount is collected with registration and is based on the expiration date. A two-year renewal therefore needs two years of the AFV fee as well as two years of the base registration. The model handles full one- and two-year terms after October 1, 2025.
Inspection status and vehicle eligibility affect the term DMV will approve. Select an available term, rather than assuming every vehicle can receive a longer registration. The additional AFV fee is not refundable or transferable, according to DMV's FAQ. Late renewals, specialty plates and replacement items can add charges beyond this calculation.
A purchase introduces a separate title/document-fee transaction. It is not included in the annual $40 passenger base. Use the Delaware agency quote worksheet for a first registration or a different class.
Delaware official fee rules
- 21 Del. C. 2151 and 2151A: passenger base and every alternative-fuel weight band.
- DMV alternative-fuel FAQ: effective date, collection and refunds.
- DMV registration information: renewal and inspection procedure.
Updated · Published by DMV Fee Calculator Editorial Team.