Buying a used car in Maryland? Run a 100% FREE Maryland License Plate Lookup and reveal the vehicle’s full history in seconds. Just enter the license plate number to access a detailed report — including title status, ownership records, accident history, mileage, open recalls, liens, and more.

Why Use VinCheck.info for Maryland Plate Checks?

✅ 100% Free – no hidden fees, no subscriptions
✅ Verified data from government and industry partners
✅ Works on any device – no app or software needed
✅ No sign-up, no personal info required

Why Run a Maryland License Plate Lookup?

With over 93% of Maryland households owning a car, especially in high-traffic areas like Baltimore, Rockville, and Frederick, used vehicles are in constant demand. But in a state with some of the highest full-coverage insurance rates in the country, buying a car with hidden issues can be an expensive mistake.

Running a Maryland plate lookup helps you:

• Reveal timeline and mileage inconsistencies
• Spot red flags like flood damage, salvage history, or title brands
• Check for open recalls or active liens
• Confirm the plate matches the correct VIN
• Prepare for Maryland’s emissions and safety inspections

Every vehicle in Maryland must be registered with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). That plate number isn’t just a tag — it’s your gateway to uncovering vital details that can protect you from fraud or bad deals.

Don’t risk it. Use VinCheck.info’s Maryland license plate search tool to check any used vehicle before you buy.

Maryland License Plate Serial Format:
1AB2345

What Can You Find with a Maryland License Plate Lookup?

VinCheck.info’s Maryland License Plate Number Lookup reveals key facts about a vehicle’s history, helping you make smarter decisions:

• Vehicle Details: Check the make, model, year, engine specs, and trim level.
• Title Status: Identify title brands like salvage, rebuilt, flood, or junk.
• Accident History: Access records of crashes, damage, and airbag deployments.
• Mileage Verification: Detect odometer rollbacks or mileage discrepancies.
• Theft Check: See if the vehicle has ever been reported stolen.
• Recall Alerts: Look up open recalls and known safety issues.
• Vehicle Value: Estimate market value based on age, condition, and mileage.
• Timeline: Find out how many owners it’s had and where it’s been registered.
• Sales & Auction Data: View previous sales, pricing trends, and auction results.
• Crash Test Ratings: Review safety ratings from IIHS-HLDI and NHTSA to understand how the vehicle performs in crash tests.

Sample Vehicle History Report

Maryland Vehicle License Plates

If you own or plan to purchase a vehicle in Maryland, it’s important to understand the state’s license plate requirements. Before committing to a used vehicle, consider running a license plate lookup Maryland service to check for title brands, accident records, liens, and registration status.

Maryland License Plate Format

Standard Maryland license plates generally feature an alphanumeric format such as 1AB2345 or AB12345, depending on the plate type and issue year. Specialty and personalized tags may have unique configurations and graphics tied to organizations, schools, or personal interests. You can verify these plate types using a Maryland license plate lookup tool.

How Many Plates Per Vehicle in Maryland?

Maryland typically requires two license plates for most passenger vehicles:

• Front and rear plates are required for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs.
• Rear plate only is required for:
  • Motorcycles
  • Trailers
  • Class L (historic) and Class N (street rod) vehicles
  • Some Class E (truck) and commercial vehicles under certain conditions

Grace Period for Getting Plates in Maryland

When you buy a vehicle in Maryland, you must register it and obtain license plates within 60 days of purchase. If you buy from a dealer, they usually issue a 60-day temporary tag to allow time for title transfer and registration. Driving without valid plates after this period may result in penalties.

To avoid risks when buying used, run a free Maryland plate lookup to verify the car’s legal standing before purchase.

Types of Maryland License Plates

The Maryland MVA offers a variety of license plate options tailored to personal preferences and affiliations. You can confirm any plate type using a Maryland tag lookup service:

• Standard 
• Personalized​ plates
• Agricultural or Chesapeake Bay license plates
• Amateur radio operator license plates
• Disabled license plates
• General license plates
• Military license plates
• Organizational license plates
• Organizational (non logo) license plates
• Personalized (vanity) license plates

Replacement of Lost or Damaged Maryland License Plates

If your Maryland license plates, registration stickers, or registration card are lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request replacements through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). It’s also wise to run a Maryland license plate lookup to make sure your plate number hasn’t been used fraudulently.

Step 1: Report Theft or Loss (Optional but Recommended)

If your plates or stickers were stolen, you should report the theft to your local police department. While not always required by the MVA, having a police report can help protect you against identity theft or fraudulent use of your plate number.

Note: If your vehicle was issued two plates and only one is lost or damaged, the MVA may still require you to replace both to maintain a matched set.

Step 2: Where to Request Replacement Plates or Stickers

1. Online through the Maryland MVA website
2. Any full-service MVA branch
3. By mail to:
MVA Mail-In Registration Unit
6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062
4. At a licensed tag and title service (additional service fees may apply)

Step 3: What You’ll Need

• Application for Substitute Plates/Stickers
  – If switching from a specialty plate (Chesapeake Bay, Agriculture, vanity, or organizational) to a standard plate, write “Regular License Plates” on the form.
• Commemorative Bay/Agricultural Plate Application
  – Use this instead if upgrading to Chesapeake Bay or Agriculture plates.
• Current plates and registration card (if available)
• Valid photo ID (for in-person applications only)
• Payment for fees (see below)
• If applying on someone else’s behalf:
  • A copy of their photo ID, and
  • A signed letter or power of attorney giving permission

Step 4: Maryland Plate Replacement Fees

• Standard plate or sticker replacement – Fee varies
• Chesapeake Bay or Agricultural plate replacement – Additional fee applies
• Specialty or vanity plates – Subject to additional fees

💡 Pro Tip: Switching from a specialty plate to a regular one? Clearly note “Regular License Plates” on your form to avoid delays.

Keep your registration documents safe, and if anything goes missing, act quickly. The MVA offers multiple convenient ways to get your replacements, and running a quick license plate check can give you peace of mind that your plate number hasn’t been misused.

How to Transfer a License Plate in Maryland

Want to move your old plates to a new car? In Maryland, you can transfer your license plates if:
1. You sold, traded, junked, or got rid of your old car.
2. The new car is still under the same owner’s name as the old one.
3. Both vehicles are the same type (like both are passenger cars or both are trucks).

When applying, make sure to include your tag number and sticker number.

How Much Does It Cost?

• If your new car has the same or lower registration fee as the old one, you only pay a transfer fee.
• If the new car’s registration fee is higher, you pay the transfer fee plus the difference between the two fees.

If your registration is about to expire (less than 12 months left), it will be renewed for one more year when you transfer the plates.

How to Register a Vehicle in Maryland

If you live in Maryland and purchase, lease, or bring in a vehicle from another state, you must register it with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) before driving on public roads. This applies to new residents, private sales, dealership purchases, and vehicles inherited or gifted.

Registration Deadlines

• New Maryland residents: Register your vehicle within 60 days of establishing residency.
• Purchased from a Maryland dealership: Most dealers submit registration documents on your behalf. Confirm before leaving the dealership.
• Purchased from a private seller: You must register the vehicle immediately after the purchase. Temporary tags may be issued.

Late registration can lead to fines, interest charges, and penalties.

What You’ll Need

• A valid Maryland driver’s license or MVA-issued Soundex/Customer Number
• Proof of ownership (e.g., properly assigned title or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin)
• Completed Application for Certificate of Title (Form VR-005)
• Vehicle Insurance that meets Maryland’s minimum liability requirements:
  • $30,000 for bodily injury (1 person)
  • $60,000 for bodily injury (2+ people)
  • $15,000 for property damage
• Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate (required for used vehicles not purchased from a dealer)
• Lien information (if applicable)
• Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old)
• Payment for taxes and fees

Taxes and Fees to Expect

• Excise tax: 6% of the vehicle’s fair market value or purchase price (whichever is higher)
• Title fee: $100
• Registration fee: Based on vehicle weight and type (typically $135–$187 for passenger vehicles)
• Temporary tag fee (if needed): $20
• Inspection fee: Varies by inspection station

Ways to Register

✅ Option 1: Register In Person

Best for new residents or private sales
Visit any MVA branch office or licensed tag and title service
Find locations: mva.maryland.gov/locations

✅ Option 2: Register Online

Available for some renewals and title transfers
Visit: mva.maryland.gov
Requires a myMVA account and qualifying documents

✅ Option 3: Register by Mail

For certain title transfers or renewals
Mail your completed documents to:
Maryland MVA
6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062

After You Register

• You’ll receive license plates and a registration card by mail or in person.
• Maryland registration is typically valid for 2 years.
• You must maintain valid insurance and pass inspections as required.

Out of State

If you’re transferring a vehicle from out-of-state, ensure:

• You get a Maryland safety inspection before registration (unless exempt).
• Your out-of-state title is properly signed over.

You verify if your vehicle qualifies for historic, farm, or disability plates.

Maryland Vehicle Registration Renewal

In Maryland, you can renew your vehicle registration for 1 or 2 years at a time. Renewal is simple—just ensure you don’t have unpaid parking tickets, insurance issues, or MVA flags. If you do, you may need to visit an MVA branch.

Your new registration card and sticker will arrive within 10 days after you renew.

Check your renewal status or eligibility at myMVA Portal

What You’ll Need

Before renewing your vehicle registration, prepare the following:

• Your vehicle’s license plate number and title number
• A valid credit/debit card or mobile wallet for payment
• Matching information (name, address, insurance) from your renewal notice
• Power of Attorney form and ID copy if someone else is renewing for you
• Proof of resolved flags, insurance compliance, or citations (if applicable)

Note: Use myMVA to check for any blocks or unpaid fees that may affect renewal.

Ways to Renew Your Registration

You have several convenient renewal options:

1. Online via myMVA

• Visit: myMVA eServices
• Enter your license plate and title numbers
• Pay using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or Mobile Wallet
• Your info must match the renewal notice
• Get your registration and sticker by mail within 10 days

You can also renew:

• By phone: Call 1-410-768-7000 (touch-tone required)
• At an MVA Kiosk: Located at all full-service MVA offices

Kiosk services include:

• Replace plates or registration cards
• Update address or check driving record
• Pay fees or extend VEIP inspection deadlines

2. By Mail

• Review your renewal notice and make any changes in the gray area
• Sign the form (only one owner’s signature required)
• If someone else is renewing: include Form VR-470 and a copy of your ID
• Include check or money order (no cash)
• Mail everything using the envelope provided
• Allow up to 15 business days for processing and delivery

3. County Treasurer’s Offices (Tag Renewal Only)

Renew tags at participating county offices (additional fee may apply):
Monday–Friday only (no full MVA services)

Locations include:

• Caroline County – Denton
• Charles County – La Plata
• Dorchester County – Cambridge
• Frederick County – Frederick
• Queen Anne’s County – Centreville
• St. Mary’s County – Leonardtown
• Somerset County – Princess Anne
• Worcester County – Snow Hill & Bishopsville

4. Title Service Agents

Licensed agents across Maryland offer tag renewals for a fee.
They can also assist with vehicle titling.
Visit the MVA website for a full list of licensed agents.

After You Renew

• Online or by mail: Allow 5–15 business days for delivery
• Kiosk or in-person: Get your registration and sticker immediately
• Didn’t receive it within 30 days? Call 1-410-768-7000 for assistance

Late Renewal Fees

Renew before your registration expires to avoid penalties.
Unresolved issues like flags or unpaid fines may delay or block your renewal.

Maryland Vehicle Titling Guide

Buying or registering a used vehicle in Maryland? Here’s everything you need to know about titling, registering, paying excise taxes, and handling vehicle transfers.

How to Title a Used Vehicle in Maryland

To title and register your newly purchased used car in Maryland, submit the following documents to the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) along with taxes and fees:

✅ Required Documents:

• Proof of Ownership
  • Maryland title signed over to you, or
  • Out-of-state title, registration, and bill of sale (if no title exists in the other state)
• Application for Title
  • Use the existing Maryland title or
  • Submit Form VR-005 (Application for Certificate of Title) with your insurance information
• Proof of Purchase Price
  • A bill of sale signed by both buyer and seller
  • Must be notarized if:
    • The car is less than 7 years old
    • The price is $500+ below book value
    • Buyer wants tax calculated from sale price

Maryland Excise Titling Tax

Maryland charges a 6.5% excise tax based on the purchase price or book value of the vehicle. The rules differ depending on where you bought your car:

Dealer Purchases:
1. 6.5% of total purchase price, including:
– Dealer processing fees
– Manufacturer rebates (taxable)
– Trade-in credit (allowed)
2. Dealer discounts are not taxable
3. All fees must be listed clearly on the bill of sale

Private Party Sales:
1. 6.5% of purchase price based on a notarized MVA Bill of Sale (Form VR-181)
2. Additional documentation may be required to prove the price
3. For vehicles 7+ years old:
– Tax is calculated on purchase price or $640, whichever is higher
4. For trailers 7+ years old:
– Minimum book value is $320

Additional Requirements (Used Vehicles)
In some cases, you may need to provide the following:

• Odometer Disclosure Statement
  • Include mileage in the Maryland title or use Form VR-197
• Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate
  • Required unless vehicle is transferred between:
    • Spouses
    • Parents and children
  • Certificate is valid for 90 days
• Lien Information (if financed)
  • Must be listed on Form VR-005
  • Use Form VR-217 for second lien
• Lien Release (if applicable)
  • Submit a Maryland Security Interest Filing or a signed release letter from lienholder
  • A clear title can be requested online for free (one-time only) via myMVA account
• Power of Attorney (Form VR-470)
  • Required if someone else signs titling documents
  • Must include valid ID for both parties

Titling a New Vehicle in Maryland

Most Maryland dealers handle the entire titling and registration process for you. They’ll give you:

• A bill of sale
• Temporary or permanent plates
• Your Maryland Certificate of Title will be mailed later

If the dealer does not handle this (common for out-of-state dealers), you’ll need to:

• Submit the Application for Certificate of Title (VR-005)
• Pay title, lien, registration, and tax fees
• Provide proof of lien info or power of attorney, if applicable

Gifting a Vehicle in Maryland

Maryland allows vehicle gifts between immediate family members only. You must submit:

• Gift Certification Form (VR-103)
• Maryland Certificate of Title or Form VR-005
• Proof of relationship (if last names don’t match)

Eligible family members include:

• Spouse, Parent, Child, Grandparent, Grandchild, Sibling
• Step/Adopted children or parents
• In-laws, Aunts/Uncles age 65+

New plates are required, except for gifts between spouses, parents, and children. If fewer than 12 months remain on the registration, a renewal for an extra year is triggered.

Security Interest (Lien) Guidelines

If your vehicle has a lien:

• A recording fee applies
• A notice of security interest filing is sent to the lender
• After the lien is paid off, a release document is sent to the owner

If your title is held by an out-of-state lender:

1. Contact the MVA at 1-410-768-7000
2. Request Form VR-056 to send to your lienholder
3. Upon MVA receipt, send:
   • Completed Form VR-005
   • MD Safety Inspection Certificate
   • Title fees, lien fees, excise tax, and tag fees

Odometer Mileage Statement

Federal law requires sellers to disclose vehicle mileage at the time of ownership transfer. False mileage statements may result in legal liability for damages.

Vehicle Titling as New Maryland Resident

You Have 60 Days to Register

If you’ve moved to Maryland, you must register your vehicle within 60 days. After that, you may lose tax credits from your previous state and risk a citation.

How to Title Your Vehicle

You can apply:

• In person at any MVA branch
• By mail: MVA Out-of-State Title Unit, 6601 Ritchie Hwy, Glen Burnie, MD 21062
• Through a licensed tag & title service

What You’ll Need:

• Proof of ownership (current title)
• Application for Title & Registration (Form VR-005)
• Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate (valid for 90 days)
• Lien info (if applicable)
• Lease agreement (if leased)
• Power of Attorney (if someone else is applying for you)

Use the Inspection Station Lookup Tool to find a certified location near you.

Excise Tax Rules

Tax is based on:

• Vehicle age
• State you moved from
• When you moved

If You Moved Within 60 Days:

If You Moved Over 60 Days Ago:

• ≤ 6 model years: 6.5% of the retail value (based on NADA value)
• ≥ 7 model years: $41.60 (or $20.80 for trailers)

Leased Vehicles:

Bring your lease agreement and proof of any taxes paid to another state.

Military Exemption

Active-duty military (or recently returned) who title a vehicle in their name are exempt from excise tax. Proof (e.g., DD-214 or orders) is required.

After You Apply

• Title will be mailed
• Plates, registration, and stickers: issued at the office or mailed (depending on how you apply)