Applying for a Car Registration in Maryland

Obtaining Maryland vehicle registration credentials is one of the first steps you must take for any newly purchased, acquired or inherited automobile. According to state law, operating an unregistered car, truck or minivan is unlawful.

The specific DMV registration process varies slightly depending on whether you purchase the vehicle from a licensed Maryland dealer or an independent seller. 

In most cases, Maryland dealers handle your new car registration paperwork for you, eliminating your need to visit a local office of the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). 

If you purchase or acquire a vehicle from a family member, private seller or out-of-state dealer, however, you must visit a local MVA branch to manually register your new or used automobile in the state. 

After obtaining the registration, you must complete the registration renewal process every two years. 

To explore the steps you must take to register a newly acquired vehicle with the Maryland MVA, review the sections below. 

Maryland DMV Car Registration Requirements

To obtain titling and vehicle registration records in MD, you must first submit the automobile for a safety inspection. When you title your newly acquired vehicle, a recent certificate of inspection must accompany your application. 

However, these rules only apply for used vehicles. New vehicles are exempt from completing the inspection. 

As part of the auto registration application process, you may need to submit some of the following items:

• A reassigned certificate of title
• A completed application for a Maryland vehicle title
• A notice of security interest filing
• A notarized bill of sale
• Valid proof of automobile insurance
• Payment for any required Maryland vehicle registration fees and taxes

When registering your newly acquired vehicle with the MVA, keep in mind that you do not need to submit a separate title application if the vehicle is currently titled in Maryland. 

You must simply complete the “title and registration” section on the face of the vehicle’s current title certificate. 

For more helpful tips on obtaining your new car registration, download our free guide. 

Where can I go to apply for a Maryland car registration near me?

In order to pay car registration taxes and fees after purchasing a vehicle from a private seller or out-of-state dealership, you must visit a full-service MVA office to title and register your newly acquired automobile in person.

In most cases, you can pay your application fees with an accepted form of credit, cash or a personal check.

Still have questions about these requirements? Download our free guide.