DelDOT Announces New DMV Director

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is proud to announce its new director, Amy Anthony.

Director Anthony began her tenure at the DMV in 2002 as a Motor Vehicle Specialist on the front line in our Vehicle Services section. From there, she transitioned to the front line in our Driver Services section, and shortly after was promoted to Driver License Supervisor. Since then, her various promotions included the Driver License Helpdesk Supervisor, Driver License Program Manager, Chief of Driver Services, and Deputy Director, leading her to her current role as the Director.

“We were very excited when Amy agreed to step into the role of Director of the DMV,” stated Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “Her positive energy, knowledge, and passion for the Division of which she now oversees are unparalleled. She truly cares about her team and our customers. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the DMV.”

“Over the years I learned how much I enjoyed serving my community within my various positions but none more humbling than the one I recently accepted as the Director,” said Director Anthony. “I look forward to working with our customers in my new capacity as we explore new ideas and implement changes that will create better experiences both in person and online while continuing to ensure only safe drivers and vehicles are on our roadways.”

Director Anthony officially started her new position on September 1, 2023.

Karen Carson, who previously held the position of Chief of Driver Services, accepted the position of Deputy Director.

The DMV is responsible for serving the residents of the state in four main areas, which include Vehicle Services, Driver Services, Transportation Services, and Toll Operations.

The DMV has four motor vehicle facilities with single locations in Kent & Sussex Counties and two facilities in New Castle County. Additionally, there are three main Toll Operations sites in Dover and Biddle’s Corner for State Route 1 and in Newark for Interstate 95. The Division is responsible for collecting over $550 million in revenues annually for the Transportation Trust Fund. The revenue is generated by the hard work and dedication of 625 full-time and part-time employees with an operating budget of $39.5 million.

The Division monitors and processes over 917,000 registered vehicles, over 712,000 licensed drivers, more than 100,000 ID holders, and more than 72.1 million toll transactions each year. Details at dmv.de.gov.


Registration Begins for DMV’s Low-Digit Tag Lottery

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is excited to announce that its annual low-digit tag release begins on Monday, November 6, 2023. Tag-A-Palooza 2023 will feature five days of online giveaways and four in-person events.

Anyone interested in joining the online lottery to win a low-digit tag must register in advance. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023, and will continue every day through Thursday, November 2, 2023. You may register only once per driver license or identification card. To register visit dmv.de.gov/taglottery.

During the registration process, you must specify which type of tag you are interested in receiving:

PV – 5 Digit – Numbers Only (under 10,000 lbs. registered vehicle weight)
C – Commercial
PC – Passenger Car (under 10,000 lbs. registered vehicle weight)
T – Trailer (regular trailers – utility, flat-bed, or non-camping trailers)
MC – Motorcycle (above 55cc’s)
RT – Recreational Trailer (camping trailers 5,000 lbs. and over, not regular trailers – see above)
RV – Recreational Vehicle (car or truck under 5,000 lbs. or a motorhome)

If you would like to register to win a five-digit, numbers-only tag and your vehicle is under 10,000 lbs., please select tag type PV.

Monday, November 6, 2023, through Friday, November 10, 2023, DMV will randomly select (530) PV, (55) C, (145) PC, (406) T, (381) MC, (33) RT, and (35) RV winners for each of the five days. Drawings will be held at 9:00 a.m. each day. Registration does not guarantee you will receive a low-digit tag. Registration is required to be entered into the drawing.

All online winners will receive an email confirming they won a low-digit tag. The email will include further instructions. Additionally, daily winning lottery codes will be posted at dmv.de.gov/taglottery and accessible from our social media sites: facebook.com/DMVDelaware and DelawareDMV on Instagram and X. Your lottery code can also be found in your confirmation e-mail.

For those who prefer a chance to win in person, DMV will offer four opportunities during Tag-A-Palooza 2023 starting at 8:00 am until all plates are gone on the below dates:

November 6, 2023
Dover DMV

November 7, 2023
Georgetown DMV

November 9, 2023
Wilmington DMV

November 9, 2023
Delaware City DMV

Inventory for in-person events will be on a first come first serve basis and reserved to 100 PV plates per event. Winners will receive a confirmation letter on the day of the event and instructions on when to return to DMV to pick up their new license plate.

All winners will receive a standard blue and gold license plate upon completing their title work. If their tag number qualifies and they wish to purchase a black and white or stainless-steel tag once they have completed their title work with DMV, they can do so through the Delaware Historic Plate Co. To order a qualifying black & white porcelain or stainless-steel tag, go to dhptags.com.

Both online and in-person winners will receive an email once their tag is ready for pick up at the location you selected.

DISCLAIMER: Only one registration per driver license/identification card is permitted. If more than one entry is received for an individual or entity, all additional requests will be denied. If a participant wins a low-digit tag during an in-person giveaway, their online entry will be voided. The name and driver license/identification card number used to enter the lottery must match the name and driver license/identification card that will be presented to the DMV associate at the time of the transaction. If there is a discrepancy the request will be denied. The winner must apply the new tag to their vehicle no later than February 29, 2024. There will be no extensions. Tags must be applied to a vehicle; DMV will not permit placing the tag on hold. The owner is responsible for all applicable fees. Specialty tags, background tags, stainless steel tags, and porcelain tags have additional fees. DMV reserves the right to modify the tag number as assigned due to unforeseen circumstances.


DMV Announces Document Fee Exemption for Active Duty Military

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announces effective October 11, 2023, active duty military and their dependents may qualify for a document fee exemption.

2 Del. Admin. C. §2266 was amended to assist with the transition to a new state less strenuous on our active duty military personnel and their dependents, who are deployed to the State of Delaware.

The exemption includes the registration of a motor vehicle by a member of the military (active, reserve, or National Guard) and their dependent family members who are stationed on either a temporary or permanent basis within the State of Delaware whose vehicles are registered in their state of residence or at their previous duty assignment (to include an overseas assignment). Military members or their dependent family members must provide active duty military orders indicating a temporary or permanent change of duty station within 90 days of relocating to Delaware or within 90 days of the vehicle purchase.

“Active duty military personnel and their families often relocate multiple times during their careers in the armed forces,” Senator Eric Buckson (R-Dover) said. “Figuring out new and innovative ways to assist these individuals to more easily transition to life in Delaware is important. I applaud the Department of Transportation and Division of Motor Vehicles for recognizing this challenge and meeting it head-on.”

“Our active duty military are no strangers to relocation, adapting to new surroundings and environments. Waiving the document fee is one small thing we can do to help ease their transition,” said Delaware Department of Transportation Secretary Nicole Majeski.

“The process to request an exemption is quite easy,” added Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles Amy Anthony. “As soon as you get settled, bring your active duty military orders to one of our DMV locations. If you have a family member who qualifies, they must also be listed on the orders.”

The Military Document Fee Credit should be applied at the time of titling.

For more information on the change visit dmv.de.gov. The DMV also offers various services for our Veterans including a Veteran’s Indicator that can be added to any driver license or identification card. DMV’s Heroes of the Highway program assists recently discharged military members with obtaining their Commercial Driver License.

 


Five Dynamic Speakers Announced for 2023 Delaware Arts Summit

STATEWIDE, Del. (September 29, 2023) – The 2023 Delaware Arts Summit proudly presents an exceptional lineup of speakers who will inspire and enlighten 200 attendees. This year’s summit, taking place on October 9, promises to be a gathering of visionaries and enthusiasts in the arts and culture sector. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and creativity, the summit aims to foster conversations that will shape the future of Delaware’s vibrant arts community.

The five speakers at the 2023 Delaware Arts Summit are:

Roberto Lugo – Ceramicist, Artist, and Social Activist

Featured Artist at the Conference

Roberto Lugo, a multi-talented artist, poet, and educator based in Philadelphia, has masterfully combined classical pottery forms with themes of urban life, poverty, inequality, and racial justice. His work reimagines traditional ceramics with a 21st-century street sensibility, featuring iconic portraits of historical figures and his own family members. Lugo’s art is showcased in prestigious institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Tyler School of Art and Architecture.

Dori Kelner – Principal, Insightful Culture

Topic: “The Art of Stress Transformation”

Dori Kelner, a seasoned tech professional turned corporate wellness advocate, brings her wealth of experience in the high-pressure tech industry to help individuals and organizations achieve holistic well-being. In her interactive session, “The Art of Stress Transformation,” attendees will explore the profound connection between stress reduction and professional creativity. Kelner will guide participants through creative activities that enhance self-awareness, fuel innovative thinking, and unlock fresh perspectives within the workplace.

Rebecca Mwase – Theater and Performance Artist, Cultural Organizer

Topic: “Relationship Building as Praxis; one conversation at a time”

Rebecca Mwase is a multi-disciplinary artist, ritualist, and community builder, known for her transformative ceremonial processes that promote healing and self-realization. In her session, “Relationship Building as Praxis,” attendees will learn the four C’s of Community Building: connection, communication, curiosity, and care. These principles can be applied to any sphere of life, fostering deeper connections and community engagement.

Patricia Rivera – CEO and Founder, Hook PR & Marketing

Topic: “How to Tell Arts Stories that Resonate Widely”

Patricia Rivera, an award-winning journalist turned PR and marketing visionary, will delve into the art of multicultural storytelling. Her workshop will equip participants with the skills to create compelling narratives that elevate arts organizations, strengthen communities, and unite people. Attendees will learn to craft stories that resonate widely, fostering authenticity and driving action.

Benjamin Wagner – Founder, Essential Industries, Inc.

Topic: “Managing Uncertainty”

Benjamin Wagner, a consultant and creative, will address the challenges of managing uncertainty in today’s post-pandemic world. With insights from integrative medicine, neuroscience, and psychology, Wagner will share practical strategies for handling everyday uncertainty. Attendees will leave with valuable tools to improve well-being and navigate a rapidly changing environment.

Performers at the Summit

In addition to these dynamic speakers, the 2023 Delaware Arts Summit will feature captivating performances by renowned artists, including:

TAHIRA – A storyteller, musician, songwriter, and 2023 Master Fellow who has performed internationally. Performing with Darnell Miller.

IVA – A versatile vocalist, songwriter, and 2023 Master Fellow recognized for her powerful voice and cinematic music. Performing with Geoff Bennington.

The 2023 Delaware Arts Summit promises to be an enriching experience, bringing together diverse perspectives and talents to inspire and empower all participants. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative event that will shape the future of Delaware’s arts and culture landscape.

Details of the event are:

  • Location: Hyatt Place Dewey Beach: Hyatt Place Dewey Beach, 1301 Coastal Hwy, Dewey Beach, DE 19971
  • Dates: Monday, October 9, 2023, with an optional pre-conference on Sunday, October 8, 2023.
  • Registration Fees: The Delaware Arts Summit is currently sold out.  To be placed on a waiting list, contact Dana Wise at Dana.Wise@delaware.gov.
  • For media inquiries or further information, please contact Andrew Truscott at Andrew.Truscott@delaware.gov.

About the Delaware Division of the Arts
The Delaware Division of the Arts is an agency of the State of Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Funding for Division programs is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.


New Motorcycle Helmet Law Aims to Reduce Fatalities

Dover – The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) aim to reduce motorcycle fatalities with a new endorsement motorcycle helmet law that will go into effect on Friday, September 1, 2023.

SB 86, sponsored by numerous legislators: David P. Sokola, Sean M. Lynn, Daniel B. Short, Kyle Evans Gay, Kyra Hoffner, Bryan Townsend, David L. Wilson, Paul S. Baumbach, Ruth Briggs King, Franklin D. Cooke, Timothy D. Dukes, Ronald E. Gray, Krista Griffith, Jeff Hilovsky, Kendra Johnson and Edward S. Osienski, was signed by Governor John Carney on June 30, 2023. The new law will require everyone who obtains a new motorcycle endorsement on or after the above date or anyone riding with that person to wear a helmet and eye protection for two years after they receive their endorsement.

Currently, every adult operating or riding as a passenger on a motorcycle must have a helmet in their possession and wear eye protection while operating or riding a motorcycle. And every person up to 19 years of age must wear a helmet and eye protection.

Helmets and eye protection are already required for those operating with a temporary motorcycle instruction permit as required under § 2703 of Title 21 of the Delaware Code and no passengers are allowed.

SB 86, will now require anyone obtaining a new motorcycle endorsement starting September 1, 2023, to wear a helmet and eye protection during the first two years of their endorsement. A civil penalty will be assessed to those found to be in violation.

“We know helmets save lives and prevent serious head injuries. We know a quarter of all motorcycle accidents that occurred last year involved a newly endorsed rider,” shared Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “By requiring this group to take extra precautions and wear a helmet we’re able to help keep Delawareans safer.”

“It’s our responsibility to keep Delawareans safe,” said Governor Carney. “This legislation, along with the current activities and protection measures, will save lives.”

“Seeing the increase in fatalities on our roadways each week is heart-wrenching. This new law will help protect riders when they are their most vulnerable,” added Amy Anthony, Director of the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.

Nineteen states and the District of Columbia currently require all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.

As of August 30, 2023, there are 22,174 motorcycles registered in the State of Delaware.

Riders interested in improving their skills can also enroll in one of the DMV’s Motorcycle Safety Courses. For a list of available courses or enrollment details, visit dmv.de.gov and search on motorcycle courses, email motorcyclecourse@delaware.gov, or contact the below for more information:

Beginner Rider Program
New Castle County – 302-832-5163
Kent County – 302-744-2658
Sussex County – 302-853-1030

Experienced Rider Program
New Castle – 302-862-5163
Kent County– 302-744-2658
Sussex County – 302-853-1030

Last year, 22 motorcyclists were killed on Delaware roadways. As of August 31, 2023, twelve motorcyclists have been killed. Always use caution while operating a vehicle or motorcycle. Look twice at intersections, don’t tailgate, and eliminate distractions. For more motorcycle safety tips for both riders and motorists visit arrivealivede.com.