Expired Registration in Maryland
Maryland mandates a valid motor vehicle registration under state law for all vehicles operated on public roads and highways. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), part of the Maryland Department of Transportation, administers all vehicle registration procedures statewide. Meanwhile, the Maryland State Police oversees and ensures compliance with registration laws on Maryland's roadways.
State Code Provisions in Maryland
Motor vehicle and traffic regulations in Maryland are governed by Title 13 of the Maryland Transportation Article, which addresses vehicle laws, certificates of title, and registration of vehicles. Penalties for violations are established under § 27-101 and Subtitle 7 of Title 13.
Registration Terms and Expiration in Maryland
Registration Renewal System
Maryland operates a staggered registration system where the month of initial vehicle titling determines the registration renewal month, with validity for periods up to three years, though most passenger vehicles are registered for two years at a time.
Standard Vehicle Registration:
- All vehicle classes have staggered registration based on the month of titling
- The month a vehicle is titled becomes the permanent registration renewal month for that vehicle
- Registrations expire on the last day of the designated renewal month
- Example: A vehicle titled in March 2025 will have registration expire on March 31, 2027 (for a two-year registration)
- Vehicle owners may renew registrations for one, two, or three years, depending on eligibility
Grace Period Status:
Maryland does not provide a grace period for expired vehicle registration. Owners may only operate the vehicle on public roads after registration is renewed. Operating a vehicle with expired registration, even by one day, constitutes a violation subject to penalties and fines.
Special Vehicle Categories:
- Commercial vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) follow apportioned registration requirements separate from standard registration periods
- Fleet owners may coordinate renewal dates for administrative convenience, though each vehicle remains tied to its original titling month
Penalties for Expired Registration in Maryland
Administrative Penalties
Maryland does not assess administrative late fees when renewing an expired registration at the Motor Vehicle Administration. Vehicle owners may renew expired registrations without penalty charges assessed by the state motor vehicle agency. However, vehicle owners who allow their registration to lapse may face insurance-related penalties and registration suspension if the vehicle's insurance coverage also lapses.
Traffic Violations
Operating a motor vehicle with expired registration constitutes a misdemeanor offense under Maryland Code, Transportation §§ 13-411 and 27-101. Specific violations include:
| Violation | Offense Classification | Maximum Fine | Prepayment Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating vehicle without valid registration plates displayed (§ 13-411(d)) | Misdemeanor | $500 | $70 |
| Displaying expired registration plate on vehicle (§ 13-411(f)) | Misdemeanor | $500 | $70 |
| Owner permitting operation without valid registration (§ 13-411(e)) | Misdemeanor | $500 | $70 |
Misdemeanor Classification:
Under Maryland Code, Transportation § 27-101, violations of the Maryland Vehicle Law constitute misdemeanor offenses unless otherwise specified. Persons convicted of a misdemeanor for operating with an expired registration:
- Are subject to a maximum fine of $500
- May face additional penalties, including points on driving record and license suspension
- Receive a permanent criminal record for the misdemeanor conviction
Government Agencies
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)
6601 Ritchie Highway N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062
Phone: (410) 768-7000 / 1-800-950-1682
Official Website: Maryland MVA
Maryland Department of State Police
1201 Reisterstown Road
Pikesville, MD 21208
Phone: (410) 653-4200
Official Website: Maryland State Police
