Important Update! The state of Delaware further adjusted the filing requirements for Trade Name Re-Registrations. Re-Registration is no longer mandatory but is encouraged by the state. See details below.
Additional updates will be provided as they become available.
The state of Delaware has recently introduced several updates to the Doing Business As (DBA) trade name registration process, aimed at streamlining and modernizing the registration process. These changes to the DBA registration and maintenance process will go into effect on February 2, 2026.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Starting February 2, 2026, the Division of Revenue (DOR) will start administering Delaware’s statewide DBA registry through its One Stop online portal.
- New DBAs will be registered online with the DOR instead of filing with individual county Prothonotary offices. A Delaware business license is required to register a DBA.
- For holders of an existing DBA registered with the Courts before February 2, 2026, no new action is required. Their existing registration will remain valid and will be listed alongside new DOR trade name registrations.
- Existing DBA holders can choose to re-register their trade name in the new DOR Tradename Registry at no cost, as long as they provide the Court’s file number. A business license will still be required for re-registration.
- After February 2, 2026, the DOR will only issue Tradename Certificates for names that are registered in its new registry. If your DBA is only listed with the Courts, you will need to register it with the DOR first to obtain a certificate.
- For Delaware LLCs or corporations that do not conduct business in Delaware, but still need a Delaware DBA, a Trade Name Only Business License will be available.
- Registering a DBA does not grant exclusive rights to the name. Others may still register or use the same trade name.
Please see the Delaware Division of Revenue’s website for more information on business licensing. FAQs on the DBA registration process can be viewed here.
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