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by Armando Martinez
License Plate Transfer Process in Maryland
When selling a car in Maryland, the license plates stay with the seller, but the buyer has 60 days to transfer ownership, register the car in their name, and receive new license plates. The seller must return the plates to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and if applicable, file an Application for Registration Plate Refund (Form #VR-021) to apply for a refund for registration plates. Please follow the instructions on the form. This form can be filled out and brought in person to your local full service MVA or it can be mailed to Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, 6601 Ritchie Hwy. NE, Glen Burnie, MD 21062, Attn: Tag Return.
The seller must provide the buyer with a signed and dated title and possibly a notarized bill of sale. The buyer will need to visit the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to transfer ownership and obtain new plates. In advance it is recommended that the buyer complete a Title & Registration Pre-Application online at https://mymva.maryland.gov/TAP/IND/_/ At the end of the application, you will be prompted to make an in-person appointment to finalize the request at an MDOT MVA branch office, You can make your appointment online by visiting https://mymva.maryland.gov/TAP/IND/_/#1 .
To transfer ownership, the buyer must bring the following documents to the MVA:
- A completed signed and dated title
- A notarized MVA Bill of Sale (form # VR-181) (optional unless the vehicle is sold for less than current book value determined by calling the MVA’s Customer Service Center at 1-410-768-7000 to verify the vehicle’s book value.
- Proof of insurance
- An Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form #VR-197)
- An Application for New Plates/Stickers & Transfer of Plates or Non-Title Trailers
- A Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate
- A Maryland Emissions Inspection Certificate
License Plate Fees in Maryland
The fees for license plates in Maryland vary depending on the type of vehicle, registration period, and other factors. Some of the fees you may need to pay include:
- Title fee: $50
- Registration fee: varies based on vehicle type and location
- Sales tax: 6% of the purchase price or the vehicle's fair market value, whichever is greater
- Safety inspection fee: $20
- Emissions inspection fee: $14
Additionally, there may be additional fees for new license plates, registration stickers, and other administrative fees. Click here for a Schedule of Fees (Form #VR-042A)
Conclusion
Selling a car in a private party sale in Maryland requires you to know how to transfer license plates properly. As the seller, you must provide the buyer with a signed and dated title and a bill of sale. The buyer will then need to transfer ownership and obtain new plates by visiting the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration and providing the necessary documentation. Expect to pay title fees, registration fees, sales tax, safety and emissions inspection fees, and other administrative fees. For a state guide to buying and selling vehicles in Maryland, click here: https://mva.maryland.gov/Documents/VR-315.pdf . By following these steps, you can ensure a successful private party sale and a smooth license plate transfer process in Maryland.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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