We know. You’re in the middle of a move. The last thing you want to do is head to the DMV. But sometimes you’ve just got to do what you’ve got to do. And if you intend on driving in the state of Delaware, this is one of those moments.

To take off some of the stress, we've created this guide to everything you’ll need to know and prepare to complete the process smoothly. Read on for the how-to.

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How to change your address on a Delaware driver’s license

All Delaware movers are required to update their address. But the process looks different for folks moving from within state versus out of state.

If you’re moving within Delaware

If you’re already a Delaware resident, congrats! The change of address process is not only easier for you, but it’s also free.

After you move, you’ll have 30 days to update your address with the

Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles

As for the process, you have two options:

Mail-in a copy of the update form: print, fill out, and mail

your form

to the DMV. You’ll receive new registration cards in the mail, although you will still need to stop by the DMV to get a new physical license. Mail your form to this address:

Division of Motor Vehicles, Driver License Section

P.O. Box 698

Dover, Delaware 19903

Stop by your local DMV: if you want to save time, you can complete the entire process in one trip.

Congrats! You’ve completed the form. But you’re not done yet! Once the form is submitted, you have to pick up your new physical license in person.

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If you’re moving to Delaware from another state

Newcomers to Delaware have to deal with fees and a slightly more complicated process. Not to worry though, it’s all pretty manageable.

You also have double the time of in-state movers to complete the process: 60 days.

Everything will need to be done in person at the DMV. You can’t go to just any DMV, however. You must choose between the

, or

locations.

When you arrive, be prepared to turn in the following documents:

Out-of-state driver's license and/or ID card

Proof of legal presence, i.e. birth certificate or passport

Proof of social security number

Two proofs of Delaware residency

If you intend to change your name, you’ll also need to submit proof of legal name change.

Don’t forget those fees now. For a Class D driver's license, you’re going to be charged $40. Be ready to make the payment during your visit.

Other steps for a Delaware change of address

We covered how to update your driver’s license. But if you’re moving from out of state with a vehicle, you’re also required to work to update your title and registration.

First, the DMV requires your vehicle to be insured with at least the state minimum requirements. To prove you’ve got this, prepare the original copy of one of the following:

Valid insurance ID card (can be through the company’s app or a physical copy)

Valid insurance policy

Written binder on company letterhead from the insurance company or agent within 30 days of issuance

The consequences for being uninsured are steep: $1500 and/or 30 days in jail and a 6-month license suspension! Don’t risk it.

Second, you’ll have to get your vehicle inspected at a DMV inspection lane. If you want to get this done in one go, make sure you have the following:

The certificate of title or registration

All lights working, clean, and properly aimed

Functioning brakes

Undamaged window glass without tinting on windshield and front windows, unless you have a waiver for the tint

Clean and unbroken mirrors

Operating windshield wipers in good condition

Fit tires with a minimum tread depth of 2/32 inches

Working doorknobs

No safety hazards

An operating car horn

An effective muffler

No leaking gas

Functioning seatbelts

Bumper height above 22 inches

No air scoops more than 3 inches high

Proper exhaust emissions

If you don’t have the above in check, you’ll fail and will need to return with any issues addressed.

Third, it’s time to obtain your title and registration! You can do so at one of these offices:

, or

To get your title and registration, show up with the following:

(If applicable in your former state) a certificate of license

(If you have a lien or encumbrance) a completed MV-35 form

A signed application for Certificate of Title (MV-212) and inspection report (MV-210) from the inspection

Proof of liability insurance

Vehicle document fee of 4.25% of the vehicle’s value (minimum $8) — you might be excepted from this if you have paid a similar value to another state. Ask your DMV if you think this might apply to you.

For most drivers, the title fee will cost you $35, and the registration fees will be $40 per year.

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How to switch car insurance companies when you move to a new state

How to notify your insurance company of your Delaware change of address

Driving uninsured in Delaware can lead to some pretty scary consequences. Luckily, avoiding them is easy. You can change your address by making a quick call to your agent, going on your online account, or on the insurance company’s app.

Why notifying your insurance company of a change of address is so important

Not only will you avoid DMV consequences, but you may also avoid penalties from your insurance company.

Did you know your zip code helps to determine your insurance rate? Different zip codes have different amounts of risk: think congestion, crime, and weather patterns. If you don’t update your zip code, you could be committing fraud.

Also, states have different

minimum liability insurance requirements

. If you don’t meet those of your new state, you could be fined, or have your license or registration suspended.

Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but make these mistakes, and you could also see your car, home, and renters insurance shoot up for years to come!

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How to find affordable car insurance in Delaware

Hope we didn’t spook you with those insurance penalties. The truth is, moving to a new zip code is also a great opportunity to ensure you’re getting the lowest rate on your

car insurance

The easiest way to do this is by switching with Jerry.

Jerry

is the #1-rated car insurance app in the App Store designed to get you the lowest, customized rates from the top 55+ insurance companies.

Unlike a trip to the DMV, we make our process easy. Simply download the app, tap in your info, and within seconds the

trusted comparison tool

will analyze the market and show you rates tailored to your needs.

Need help making the switch or canceling your old policy? The team at Jerry has got your back.

After a long move, save yourself some stress, time, and an average over $800 per year on car insurance, by switching with Jerry today.