How To Get a Car Title in Maryland 2026
Maryland law mandates that all motor vehicles operated within the state must be titled through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Dealers are required to submit title documents within 30 days of vehicle delivery. New Maryland residents must title their vehicles within 60 days of establishing residency. The Motor Vehicle Administration, operating under the Maryland Department of Transportation, maintains vehicle ownership records and processes all title transactions throughout the state's 23 counties and Baltimore City.
Where to Apply for a Maryland Certificate of Title
Maryland residents must process title applications through official Motor Vehicle Administration facilities and authorized representatives:
- MVA Full-Service Branch Offices – State-operated facilities located throughout Maryland's counties
- MVA Express Offices – Limited-service locations handling specific transaction types
- Licensed Maryland Vehicle Dealers – Authorized dealerships with MVA processing capabilities
- Tag and Title Service Providers – Private businesses licensed to handle MVA transactions
- Mail Submission – Applications may be mailed to the MVA Out-of-State Title Unit
Required Documents for Title Application in Maryland
Individuals applying for a Maryland certificate of title must present specific documentation to MVA representatives or authorized agents.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Previous Title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin | Document must contain proper ownership assignment to the applicant or display the applicant as the original purchaser |
| Application for Certificate of Title (Form VR-005) | Completed form containing accurate vehicle identification, owner information, and transaction details |
| Bill of Sale or Purchase Documentation | Written evidence establishing the transaction date, purchase price, and parties involved |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Additional materials may be required depending on specific circumstances surrounding the application:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Maryland Driver's License or Identification Card | Establish applicant identity and residency | Out-of-state identification requires additional proof of Maryland residency |
| Proof of Maryland Residency | Verify physical address within state boundaries | Two documents required: utility bills, bank statements, or government correspondence dated within 60 days |
| Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate | Demonstrate vehicle compliance with Maryland safety standards | Required for out-of-state vehicles and vehicles without current Maryland registration; valid for 90 days |
| Odometer Disclosure | Record vehicle mileage accurately | Mandatory for vehicles model year 2011 or newer |
| Excise Tax Documentation | Proof that applicable excise tax has been calculated and paid | Calculated at point of title application |
| Lien Release Documentation | Verify satisfaction of outstanding security interests | Necessary when previous title indicates lienholder information |
Maryland Title Fees and Costs
The Motor Vehicle Administration establishes standardized fee structures for title transactions processed throughout the state.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Title – New or Used Vehicle | $200.00 |
| Certificate of Title – Duplicate | $40.00 |
| Certificate of Title – Corrected | $80.00 |
| Certificate of Title – Salvage | $200.00 |
| Title Records Search (per name or VIN) | $15.00 |
| Certified Title Records Search | $50.00 |
Additional Processing Fees and Taxes
Supplementary charges apply based on transaction specifics and processing location:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Temporary Registration | $50.00 | Valid for 30 days; required if vehicle needs safety inspection before titling |
| Tag and Title Service Provider Fee | $10.00–$30.00 | Varies by service provider; charged in addition to state fees |
| Vehicle Excise Tax | 6.5% | Calculated on vehicle purchase price or NADA book value (whichever is greater); effective July 1, 2025; maximum cap varies by vehicle type |
| Rental Vehicle Excise Tax | 3.5% | Applied to short-term vehicle rentals; effective July 1, 2025 |
| MVA Administrative Fee | $10.00 | Applied to specific transaction categories |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Required Documentation
Secure the properly assigned previous title or manufacturer's certificate of origin, completed VR-005 form, bill of sale (notarized if required), valid Maryland driver's license or state identification, proof of Maryland residency (two documents dated within 60 days), and any supplementary materials applicable to your specific transaction.
Step 2: Complete Maryland Safety Inspection Requirements
For vehicles being titled in Maryland for the first time or those without a current Maryland registration, obtain a Maryland Safety Inspection certificate from a licensed Maryland inspection station. The inspection certificate is valid for 90 days before application submission. If you cannot transport the vehicle to an inspection station, you may request a 30-day temporary registration ($50.00) to facilitate the inspection process.
Step 3: Calculate Excise Tax
Determine the excise tax amount by calculating 6.5% of the vehicle's purchase price or National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) book value, whichever is greater. Certain transactions may qualify for tax exemptions, including immediate family transfers or inherited vehicles.
Step 4: Submit Application to Authorized Location
Present all documentation to an MVA full-service branch office, authorized tag and title service provider, licensed dealership, or mail application to the MVA Out-of-State Title Unit. Representatives will verify document completeness and accuracy before accepting the application for processing.
Step 5: Pay All Applicable Fees and Taxes
Remit the $200.00 title fee, calculated excise tax amount (6.5%), service provider fees if applicable, and any additional charges related to your specific transaction. Accepted payment methods include cash, personal checks (imprinted with name and address, including driver's license number and phone number), money orders, and major credit cards at most locations.
Step 6: Receive Temporary Documentation and Track Status
Upon successful submission of your application, you will receive confirmation. You can monitor your application status online through the MVA system using your transaction receipt number.
Step 7: Receive Certificate of Title Delivery
The MVA will process and mail the certificate of title to the owner's address of record, or to the lienholder if a security interest is recorded. Processing timeframes vary based on application complexity and MVA workload. The MVA recommends contacting the customer service center at (410) 768–7000 if you have not received your title within a reasonable timeframe.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Certain vehicle classifications are excluded from Maryland's titling requirements under state regulations:
- Vehicles model year 1999 or older registered with historic vehicle plates
- Trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating under 2,000 pounds
- Off-road motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles not operated on public roads
- Vehicles owned by the federal government or its agencies
- Dealer-owned vehicles displaying valid dealer registration plates
- Farm vehicles and equipment used exclusively for agricultural purposes on farm property
- Vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) for interstate commerce
Contact Information
Questions regarding title applications, processing timeframes, or documentation requirements should be directed to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.
Maryland Department of Transportation
Motor Vehicle Administration
6601 Ritchie Highway NE, Glen Burnie, MD 21062
Phone: (410) 768–7000
Official Website: Motor Vehicle Administration
