Delaware Transitions to Statewide DBA Registration: What Businesses Need to Know

Effective February 2, 2026, Delaware is transitioning from county-level to state-level administration of trade name registrations, commonly referred to as DBAs. This shift centralizes the process under the Division of Revenue (DOR), which will manage all filings through the Delaware One Stop. The goal of this change is to simplify and standardize the DBA filing process across the state.

Re-Registration Required for Existing Trade Names

If your business already has a trade name registered at the county level, you’ll need to re-register it through the new state system. Re-registration is more than a simple transfer. Under the new system, all trade names must be unique statewide. That means if your existing name is already claimed by another entity in the new registry, you’ll be required to choose a different name. Businesses should not delay in checking the availability of their trade names and preparing for this transition.

Licensing Requirements and Trade Name Validity

Registering a trade name in Delaware now requires a valid Delaware business license. For businesses that are based outside of Delaware and not actively conducting business in the state, the Division of Revenue offers a “Trade Name Only” license. This option allows out-of-state entities to maintain a trade name in Delaware for branding or other limited purposes without establishing a physical or operational presence.

Trade names filed under the new system will not have expiration dates. However, there is a significant caveat: if the associated business license becomes inactive for three years, the trade name will be released and made available to other entities. Maintaining an active license is essential to protecting your trade name from being forfeited.

How Harbor Compliance Helps Businesses Streamline DBA Filing Processes

As Delaware businesses adapt to this new structure, Harbor Compliance is here to simplify the process. Our Managed DBA Service is designed to take the burden off your team by handling the re-registration process on your behalf. We’ll ensure your filing is completed and help you navigate name availability issues should your current trade name already be taken.

We also assist in securing the appropriate business license, whether your organization is based in Delaware or out of state.

Take Action Before the Deadline

Delaware’s move to a centralized DBA system represents an important shift for businesses operating under trade names in the state. Whether you’re a Delaware-based entity or an out-of-state company maintaining a presence, these changes require timely attention and accurate filing. Harbor Compliance can help ensure your transition is seamless. To learn more about our Managed DBA Service, contact us today.