Blog & Guides

A Maryland title transfer is required any time a vehicle changes ownership — whether through a private sale, gift, or inheritance. Both the buyer and seller must sign the back of the Certificate of Title.

You will need: the signed Maryland title, a completed MVA title application form, proof of Maryland auto insurance, valid photo ID, and payment for MVA fees plus our service fee. We handle the paperwork and submit directly to the state — usually same day.

Tip: Make sure the odometer reading and purchase price are filled in correctly before you arrive. Mistakes can delay processing.

A 30-day temporary operating permit (temp tag) is issued when a buyer needs to drive a vehicle before the permanent registration and plate are ready. They are common after private-party purchases, dealership sales, or out-of-state vehicle imports.

Temp tags are valid for 30 days and are issued the same day at our office. You will need proof of purchase (bill of sale or title), valid ID, and proof of Maryland auto insurance.

Important: A temp tag is not a substitute for insurance. You must be insured before we can issue one.

New Maryland residents must title and register their out-of-state vehicle within 60 days of becoming a resident. You will need: your out-of-state title (or lienholder payoff info), a valid Maryland driver's license or ID, proof of Maryland auto insurance, and a current safety inspection certificate.

If your out-of-state title shows a lien, the lienholder will need to send the title directly to the MVA or release it electronically. Our team will advise you on the fastest route.

Maryland also requires a safety inspection from a certified inspection station before first-time registration of an out-of-state vehicle. We can point you to the nearest station.

Maryland vehicle registrations expire on the owner's birthday each year. You can renew up to 60 days before expiration. Late renewals incur additional fees, and driving on an expired registration can result in a citation.

To renew at our office, bring your renewal notice (or plate number), valid ID, and proof of current Maryland insurance. We process renewals same day and hand you the new sticker on the spot.

We also offer multi-year renewals (2-year). Ask us about the savings when you stop in.

If your Maryland Certificate of Title has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can apply for a duplicate through the MVA (Maryland Vehicle Administration). You will need a completed Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title, a valid photo ID, and payment for the state fee.

If there is an active lien on the vehicle, the lienholder must also authorize the duplicate title. We help you identify if a lien exists and guide you through the authorization process.

Most duplicate titles are processed same day at our office. Electronic titles (e-titles) can be converted to a printed copy with our help.

1. Wrong name spelling: The name on the title must exactly match your ID. Even a middle name discrepancy can require a correction.

2. Missing insurance: Maryland requires liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage. We cannot process your registration without valid proof of Maryland coverage.

3. Incomplete bill of sale: Private-party purchases need a bill of sale with the sale price, date, buyer/seller names, and VIN. We provide blank forms at our office.

4. Outstanding fines or flags: The MVA may block registration if you have unpaid violations or a suspended license. Check your MVA record before visiting us.

5. Wrong fee expectation: State fees vary by vehicle weight, county, and type. Use the estimates on our website or call us ahead of time so there are no surprises.