Search Federal and State Laws and Incentives

Alternative Fuel Tax Exemption

Taxes imposed on alternative fuels used in official vehicles for the United States government or any Delaware state government agency, including volunteer fire and rescue companies, are waived. Alternative fuel retailers must obtain a fuel supplier's license from the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), and operators or owners of vehicles using alternative fuel must obtain either a special fuel user's license from DelDOT or pay the special fuel tax. (Reference Delaware Code Title 30, Chapter 51, Subchapter II)

Low-Speed Vehicle Access to Roadways

A low-speed vehicle is defined as a four-wheeled motor vehicle, other than a truck, with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 2,500 pounds that is capable of operating at a speed of at least 20 miles per hour (mph) but not greater than 25 mph on a paved surface. A low-speed vehicle may not operate on roads with a posted speed limit greater than 35 mph but may cross a highway that has a posted speed limit greater than 35 mph. The vehicle must comply with safety standards contained in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, section 571.500, and meet state insurance, titling, and registration requirements. (Reference Delaware Code Title 21, Chapter 21, Subchapter I, Section 2113A)

Idle Reduction Requirement

On-road heavy-duty motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of greater than 8,500 pounds may not idle for more than three consecutive minutes when the vehicle is stationary. Violators are subject to penalties of up to $500 for each offense. Heavy-duty vehicles subject to this regulation include long-haul and delivery trucks as well as transit and school buses. Emergency fire, rescue, and lifesaving vehicles are exempt. More vehicle exemptions may also apply. (Reference Delaware Administrative Code Title 7, Section 1145)

Idle Reduction Weight Exemption

Any motor vehicle equipped with qualified idle reduction technology may exceed the state gross, axle, tandem, or bridge weight limits by up to 400 pounds to account for the weight of the technology. The additional weight may not exceed the actual weight of the idle reduction unit. To qualify for the exemption, the vehicle operator must also be able to prove the weight of the idle reduction technology and demonstrate that the technology is fully functional. (Reference Delaware Code Title 21, Chapter 45, Section 4503f)

Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) Standards

All Model Year (MY) 2014 and later passenger cars and light- and medium-duty vehicles must meet California motor vehicle emissions and compliance requirements specified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. Certain exceptions apply, including the zero emission vehicle sales requirements. (Reference Delaware Administrative Code Title 7, Section 1140)

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Rebates

As part of the Delaware Clean Transportation Incentive Program, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) offers rebates for new or leased AFVs. The following rebate amounts are applicable for vehicles purchased or leased between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020:

Eligible applicants include Delaware residents, businesses, organizations, and government entities. Rebates are limited to six vehicles per fleet. Additional terms and conditions apply. For more information, including application guidelines and participating dealers, see the DNREC Clean Fuel and Transportation Initiatives website.

Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Rebates

As part of the Delaware Clean Transportation Incentive Program, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) offers rebates for new Level 2 EVSE purchased for use at public, workplace, commercial, and multi-unit dwelling (MUD) locations. Installation, labor, and other costs are not eligible.

Rebates are offered in the following amounts:

Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis for multi-unit dwellings, businesses, organizations, non-profits, government entities, schools, colleges, and universities. Additional terms and conditions apply. For more information, including application guidelines, see the DNREC Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Rebates website.

Medium- and Heavy-Duty Emissions Reductions Funding

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) provides funding for medium- and heavy-duty on-road and limited off-road emission reduction projects. This grant program is funded by Delaware's portion of the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust. For more information, including program guidance, application deadlines, and funding availability, see the DNREC Volkswagen Mitigation Plan website.

Regional Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI)

Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia (D.C.), Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia signed a Declaration of Intent to create the TCI, a regional initiative to improve transportation, develop a clean energy economy, and reduce carbon emissions and air pollutants from the transportation sector. The signatory states and D.C. agree to explore and develop policies and programs that result in greater energy efficiency of regional transportation systems and reduce emissions. Additionally, states support the deployment of clean vehicles and fueling infrastructure, such as electric vehicle supply equipment, to maximize the economic opportunities and emissions reductions. For more information, see the TCI website.