Getting your car registered in Maryland? This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Maryland Car Registration process, including required documents, fees, and important considerations for new residents, gifted vehicles, and more.
Titling a Used Vehicle in Maryland
To title and register a used vehicle purchased in Maryland, you’ll need:
- Proof of Ownership: A properly assigned title. Out-of-state titles are accepted; if no title exists, a registration document and bill of sale may suffice.
- Application for Title and Registration: Complete the relevant section on the existing Maryland title or use Form VR-005. Include your insurance information, ensuring it meets Maryland’s minimum requirements.
- Proof of Purchase Price: A bill of sale signed by both buyer and seller. Notarization is required if the vehicle is less than seven years old, the price is $500 or more below book value, and you want to base the 6% excise tax on the sale price.
Dealer Purchases: Excise tax is calculated on the agreed-upon price, including dealer charges and trade-in allowances. Manufacturer rebates are taxable, but dealer rebates and discounts are not.
Private Sales: Excise tax is 6% of the purchase price, verified with a notarized MVA Bill of Sale (Form VR-181). Additional documentation might be necessary to validate the purchase price. For vehicles seven years or older, the tax is based on the purchase price or a minimum book value of $640, whichever is greater. For trailers seven years or older, the minimum book value is $320.
You may also need:
- Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate: Certifies your vehicle meets state safety standards. It’s valid for 90 days. Gift transfers and transfers between spouses or parents and children are generally exempt.
- Lien Information: Form VR-217 is required to record a lien. A lien release from the previous lien holder is necessary if there’s an existing lien.
- Power of Attorney (Form VR-470): Required if someone other than the new owner signs the paperwork. Copies of both parties’ IDs are required.
- Certificate of Origin: Provided by the manufacturer. If title documents are missing, the MVA provides Form VR-056 to request them from your lien holder.
Titling a New Vehicle in Maryland
Maryland dealers usually handle titling and registration for new vehicles. You’ll receive a bill of sale and temporary tags. The title will be mailed to you. If you handle the process yourself, the requirements are similar to titling a used vehicle.
Maryland Car Registration for New Residents
New Maryland residents must title and register their vehicles within 60 days of establishing residency. Refer to the MVA’s “New to Maryland” page for specific instructions.
Gifting a Vehicle in Maryland
Gifted vehicle transfers are limited to immediate family members. Form VR-103 (Gift Certification) is required. New license plates are required except for transfers between spouses, parents, and children.
Other Maryland Car Registration Information
Security Interest Lien: A recording fee applies. The lien holder receives a notice, and the owner receives the title.
Odometer Mileage Statement: Federal law mandates accurate odometer disclosure during ownership transfer.
Title Fees: A fee applies to all vehicle titles.
Maryland Car Registration Fees
Registration fees depend on vehicle class and weight. Consult the MVA’s fee schedule for details.
Maryland Vehicle Inspection Certificate
A safety inspection is required for most used vehicles before registration. This must be done at a licensed Maryland inspection station. If you can’t transport the vehicle for inspection, a 30-day temporary registration with a Temporary Inspection Waiver (Form VR-129) is available.
License Plates in Maryland
New license plates are issued based on vehicle type. License plate transfers are allowed under specific circumstances, like transfers between family members or to a newly acquired vehicle under the same ownership. Transfer fees apply.
Maryland Car Insurance Requirements
Maryland requires minimum liability insurance coverage. Refer to the MVA’s insurance compliance page for details.
Additional Information
The MVA offers a 24-hour temporary registration for newly purchased vehicles. Certain trailers and mobile homes have unique titling and registration rules.
This guide offers a general overview. Always consult the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
