Delaware is overhauling how businesses register and manage DBAs, also known as trade names. Beginning February 2, 2026, the state will replace its long-standing county-based system with a centralized, statewide online registration process.

For business owners using or planning to use DBAs in Delaware this change has important implications. 

A Shift From County to Statewide Registration

Historically, DBA registrations in Delaware were handled at the county level, requiring filings with individual county Prothonotary offices. Under the new law, all trade name registrations will be managed entirely at the state level through the Delaware Division of Revenue’s One Stop portal. This means there will be one centralized system for all DBAs, no more county-by-county filings, and ultimately, faster, fully digital registration and record-keeping.

Existing Delaware DBAs: Re-Registration is Optional

If an entity’s trade name was previously registered with the Courts, the entity does not have to re-register it now. The entity’s existing Courts’ record will remain valid. 

If an entity prefers that its existing trade name to appear in the Division of Revenue’s Trade Name Registry, it may optionally re-register it in One Stop at no cost by entering the original Courts’ file number. A Delaware business license is required for this optional step.

Business License Requirement

To register a DBA under the new system, the applicant must hold a valid Delaware business license. Businesses actively operating in Delaware can use their standard business license. Out-of-state entities or businesses not otherwise required to hold a Delaware business license may apply for a Trade Name Only License specifically for DBA registration purposes.

This requirement applies to both new DBAs and re-registrations.

Filing Fees and Transition Period

The standard fee to register a trade name under the new system is $25 per DBA.

Delaware is expected to offer a transition window following the February 2, 2026 launch, during which some existing DBAs may be re-registered without a fee if completed promptly. Businesses should monitor official guidance closely to take advantage of any fee waivers.

New Certificates Issued by the State

After February 2, 2026 official Trade Name Certificates will be issued only by the Delaware Division of Revenue. Certificates previously issued by county courts will no longer be reissued.

If an entity needs the Division of Revenue to issue a Trade Name Certificate after the transition date, the entity’s trade name must be on the Division of Revenue’s registry. If the name is only in the Courts’ records, entities can complete re-registration in One Stop using the Courts’ file number, then request the certificate.

What Business Owners Should Do Now

To avoid disruption, businesses should take the following steps before the February 2, 2026 effective date:

1. Inventory all current DBAs registered in Delaware
2. Confirm business license status (or eligibility for a Trade Name Only License)
3. Plan to re-register once the new system opens
4. Monitor deadlines and transition guidance to avoid losing name priority

Here to Help

Our Delaware DBA experts here at Incserv can handle all of this for you!