Vehicle Registration Exemptions - Delaware

Exceptions specifically noted in 21 Del. C. 2101 Operation of unregistered vehicle; exceptions:

• Trackless trolley coaches.
• Temporary operation of a vehicle when application for registration has been made accompanied by the proper fee and certificate of title upon display of a duplicate application.
• A motor vehicle or vehicle being towed by a motor vehicle registered as a tow truck or wrecker if such towed vehicle has one end hoisted off the ground while being towed. The term tow truck or wrecker does not apply to a vehicle registered as a truck tractor.
• A motor vehicle or vehicle being operated on public roadways for the purpose of being transported between the Wilmington Port Authority and short-term parking areas within 1 mile of the facility’s gates need not be registered.
• A vehicle driven by a repair technician for drive cycle testing, certified under the Delaware Emission Education Program (“DEEP”) who has in that technician’s possession:
  • A permit issued by the Department of Natural Resources permitting such operation;
  • Testing equipment for an on-board diagnostic test is installed in the vehicle; and
  • The operator has evidence of a current and applicable garage keeper’s policy on hand, evidencing insurance coverage available for such operation.

All “vehicles” must be registered per 21 Del. C. 2101 Operation of unregistered vehicle; exceptions.

“Vehicle” is defined as every device in, upon or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway, except:

• Devices moved by human power;
• Devices used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks;
• Electric trackless trolley coaches;
• Electric bicycles;
• Electric personal assistive mobility devices; and
• Off-highway vehicles (OHVs).

“Off-highway vehicle” or “OHV” means a motor driven off-road vehicle capable of cross-country travel without benefit of a road or trail, on or immediately over land, snow, ice, marsh, swampland or other natural terrain. It includes, but is not limited to:

• A multi-wheel drive or low-pressure tire vehicle;
• A motorcycle or related 2-wheel vehicle;
• An amphibious machine;
• A ground effect air-cushion vehicle; or
• Other means of transportation deriving motive power from a source other than muscle or wind.

“OHV” does not include:

• A farm vehicle being used for farming;
• A vehicle used for military, fire, emergency or law-enforcement purposes;
• A construction or logging vehicle used in performance of its common function;
• Electric bicycle;
• Electric personal assistive mobility device or;
• A registered aircraft.

Snowmobiles are not OHVs.