Maryland DMV Services

⏱️ Deadlines

• Dealers: Usually handle titling/registration for you at the point of sale.
• Private‑party purchases / out‑of‑state purchases: You should title and register the vehicle as soon as possible — Maryland doesn’t publish a strict deadline like 30 days, but if you’re a new resident, you must register within 60 days of moving to Maryland to avoid tax penalties and meet the excise tax credit rules.

📄 1. Proof of Ownership (Title Documents)

Used Vehicle

You will need:

• The current title signed over to you by the seller. If the title was issued in Maryland, you complete the Application for Title and Registration section on the title itself.
• If the vehicle is from a state that did not issue a title, you may submit the out‑of‑state registration and a bill of sale as proof of ownership.

New Vehicle

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MSO) or out‑of‑state title (if new but already titled).
• Maryland dealers usually process this for you and issue temporary or permanent plates before you leave; the Maryland title is mailed later.

If you do it yourself:

• Use Application for Certificate of Title (Form VR‑005) if the current title cannot serve as your application form.

🛠️ 2. Vehicle Inspection (Used Cars)

• A Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate is required for most used vehicles before titling/registration. It must be done at a licensed Maryland inspection station and is valid for 90 days.
• If you can’t take the car for inspection before titling, you can request a 30‑day temporary registration using the temporary inspection waiver (Form VR‑129).

Note: New cars from dealers typically do not need an initial safety inspection to register if the dealer handles the process.

🚗 3. Insurance Requirement

Before registering:

• You must have Maryland auto liability insurance that meets minimum state requirements.
  Dealers typically require proof on the spot, and private registrations must also show this coverage.

💰 4. Taxes & Fees

• Maryland charges a 6.5% vehicle excise tax on the fair market value (often based on book value; minimum value rules apply for older vehicles).
• If Lease vehicle taxes are paid upfront
• Trade in credit allowed but vehicle must have been registered on MD
• Not reciprocal with CA

🧠 Quick Checklist for Titling & Registration 

✔ Original title or MCO
✔ Original odometer
✔ Bill of Sale or purchase order
✔ Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate (used vehicles)
✔ Auto insurance proof
✔ Vehicle color
✔ Power of attorney
✔ Fees & taxes
✔ Social security number or EIN/FEIN number if company
✔ Copy of driver’s License