How to Renew a Car Registration in Maryland

Applying for car registration renewal in Maryland is a process that you must complete once every two years. If you forget to renew your vehicle’s registration before your credentials expire, you could receive a traffic citation if a police officer chooses to pull you over. 

As a reminder to apply for MVA registration renewal before its expiration, you usually receive an official notice from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). This notice includes specific information about the steps you must take to renew your license plates, as well as any additional requirements you must meet. 

Typically, you can renew your license plates online, in person or by mail. In some cases, you can renew by telephone or kiosk as well. 

Find more information about the steps you must take to renew your license plates through the Maryland MVA in the sections below. 

Applying for a Tag Renewal in Maryland

You may apply for an MD license plate renewal in several different ways, depending on your preferred method. 

Typically, you can renew registration online or by mail, telephone or eMVA kiosk if you do not have outstanding parking tickets, insurance violations or other issues with the MVA. If you do, however, you must visit a full-service MVA office to renew your credentials in person.

Note: If you lose or damage your registration right before it expires, it is best to request a renewal instead of ordering a temporary duplicate registration.

Renewing Online

You may renew and check your vehicle registration status online if you can provide the title and license plate number of the car or truck you wish to register. 

Additionally, you must be able to pay the required registration fee with an accepted form of credit. 

By Mail

To perform your Maryland car reg check and renewal by mail, verify the information on your MVA reminder card before mailing it along with payment for the required fee. 

Depending on the situation, you may need to submit additional documentation as well. 

Download our free guide for guidance on vehicle registration renewals using one of the available methods mentioned. 

By Phone

If you wish to renew your MVA credentials by telephone, contact the department to verify your information and provide your credit card number as payment for your registration fees. 

By Kiosk

To apply for a DMV car registration renewal by eMVA kiosk, you must visit your local office of the Motor Vehicle Administration to process your application. 

When renewing via kiosk, you must have access to your insurance information and your vehicle’s renewal notice or current registration card. You must also be able to pay the required fee with a check or credit card. 

In Person

To perform your Maryland car registration check and renewal in person, visit a full-service MVA office to process your request. For an additional service fee, you may also choose to renew at any Title Service Agent or local County Treasurer’s office. 

Still have questions about renewing your registration? Download our free guide for more information.