New residents: If you just moved to Maryland, you have 60 days to register your vehicle in-state. Otherwise, you will no longer be able to receive a tax credit on your out-of-state title. You may also be charged a fee.
Here’s what most applicants will need in order to perform a title transfer in Maryland:
Lease agreement and proof of monthly payments (if applicable)
Lien information and lien release (if applicable)
Power of attorney (if applicable)
Title fees and taxes
On the title itself, the buyer and seller will need to fill out the “Assignment of Ownership” section found on the back of the title, which will include recording the odometer reading at the time of transfer.
Buying through a dealer is different: The dealer will provide you with a bill of sale and temporary license plates so you can legally drive away. Later, the Maryland Certificate of Title will be mailed to you.
Fees: The title transfer fee in Maryland is $100. Once all of your documents have been submitted, it may take up to eight weeks to receive the new title.
Keep in mind: Unless the vehicle is being gifted to an eligible family member, the vehicle’s new owner will be responsible for paying excise tax.
Pro Tip Start your title transfer process online using the MVA digital portal, and you’ll save time in the office.
Why title transfers are important
A car title dictates who owns a vehicle. When you transfer the title of a car, you’re transferring your vehicle ownership to a new owner.
If you recently had a change of residency or you are buying or selling a car, you need to do a title transfer.
Here are some additional circumstances that could require a title change:
Transferring a title consists of two steps—one for the seller and one for the buyer:
The seller: Must sign the title to release ownership of the vehicle
The buyer: Will need to go to the MVA with the signed title to be issued a new title and registration
Keep in mind: A vehicle must be lien-free before you can transfer its title. If your used vehicle has a lien, the lienholder will need to provide you with a lien release before you can transfer ownership.
Who does the title transfer?
At a dealership: When purchasing a new or used car, the dealer is responsible for submitting the legal paperwork. They file the forms with the state and send you the vehicle title by mail.
In a private transaction: The buyer and seller must complete the title transfer process. Start by determining who will submit the paperwork, and be sure all forms are properly signed.
Registering a car in Maryland
After a title transfer, you still need to register the vehicle. Registration is proof that you can legally drive on the streets and is done biennially in Maryland. Most drivers can complete the registration process online.
You must have a Maryland title and proof of auto insurance that meets the state minimum coverage requirements to register your vehicle. Please note that passenger truck registration fees are calculated differently than passenger cars.
If the vehicle is still financed, you may need the lender’s help to complete a title transfer. There are additional forms you need to fill out, too. Call your lender to ask how to handle the transaction.
Where do I sign to transfer the title?
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The title must be signed by the seller and the buyer. The title has two separate lines for each party. Add your signature to the appropriate line. If two people are buying (or selling), then both will need to sign on the same line.