License Requirements

Licensing Ordinance

All dogs age 6 months or older must be currently licensed with the State of Delaware. A valid rabies vaccination certificate or state authorized exemption certificate is required to obtain a dog license.

View the complete State of Delaware ordinance:

State of Delaware ordinance

Due Date

Payment for your license is due within 30 days of the license expiration date, or within 30 days of acquiring a dog over the age of 6 months in the State of Delaware.

A late fee will be added to each license purchased more than 30 days after the license expiration date, or more than 30 days after acquiring a dog over the age of 6 months in the State of Delaware.

License Term

Licenses will be valid for 1, 2 or 3 years from the date of purchase. For a 1-year license, your pet’s rabies vaccination must be current at the time of purchase. For a 2-year license, there must be more than 1 year remaining on the rabies vaccination as of the purchase date. For a 3-year license, there must be more than 2 years remaining on the rabies vaccination as of the purchase date.

Pets with a State Certificate of Medical Exemption from Rabies Vaccination may purchase a 1-year license only.