Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles — Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-401 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section applies to any vehicle required to be registered under this title.
(b)
(1)
If a vehicle is not registered, a person may not drive the vehicle on a highway in this State.
(2)
(i)
If a person is convicted of a violation of this subsection that involved the use of an off–highway recreational vehicle on a highway, the court shall notify the Administration of the violation.
(ii)
The Chief Judge of the District Court, in conjunction with the Administration, shall establish uniform procedures for reporting convictions described in this paragraph.
(c)
If a vehicle is not registered, the owner of the vehicle may not knowingly allow the vehicle to be driven on a highway in this State.
(d)
If the required registration fee for a vehicle has not been paid, a person may not drive the vehicle on a highway in this State.
(e)
If the required registration fee for a vehicle has not been paid, the owner of the vehicle may not knowingly allow the vehicle to be driven on a highway in this State.
(f)
If the registration of a vehicle is canceled, a person may not drive the vehicle on a highway in this State.
(g)
If the registration of a vehicle is canceled, the owner of the vehicle may not knowingly allow the vehicle to be driven on a highway in this State.
(h)
If the registration of a vehicle is suspended, a person may not drive the vehicle on a highway in this State.
(i)
If the registration of a vehicle is suspended, the owner of the vehicle may not knowingly allow the vehicle to be driven on a highway in this State.
(j)
If the registration of a vehicle is revoked, a person may not drive the vehicle on a highway in this State.
(k)
If the registration of a vehicle is revoked, the owner of the vehicle may not knowingly allow the vehicle to be driven on a highway in this State.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-402 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as otherwise provided in this section or elsewhere in the Maryland Vehicle Law, each motor vehicle driven on a highway shall be registered under this subtitle.
(2)
If a motor vehicle required to be registered under this subtitle is not registered, a person may not park the unregistered motor vehicle on any:
(i)
Public alley, street, or highway; or
(ii)
Private property used by the public in general, including parking lots of shopping centers, condominiums, apartments, or town house developments.
(3)
The provisions of paragraph (2) of this subsection do not apply to a motor vehicle that is exempt from registration under this section or § 13–402.1 of this subtitle.
(b)
Except as otherwise expressly authorized in this title, the Administration may not register or renew the registration of a vehicle unless the Administration has issued to the owner a certificate of title of the vehicle or has received an application for the certificate of title.
(c)
Registration under this subtitle is not required for:
(1)
A vehicle that is driven on a highway:
(i)
In conformity with the provisions of this title relating to manufacturers, transporters, dealers, secured parties, owners or operators of special mobile equipment, or nonresidents; or
(ii)
Under a temporary registration card issued by the Administration;
(2)
A vehicle owned and used by the United States, unless an authorized officer or employee of the United States requests registration of the vehicle;
(3)
A farm tractor or any farm equipment;
(4)
A vehicle the front or rear wheels of which are lifted from the highway;
(5)
A towed vehicle that is attached to the towing vehicle by a tow bar and for which no driver is necessary;
(6)
A vehicle owned by and in the possession of a licensed dealer for purpose of sale;
(7)
A vehicle owned by a new resident of this State during the first 60 days of residency provided the vehicle displays valid registration issued by the jurisdiction of the resident’s former domicile;
(8)
New vehicles being operated as part of a shuttle, as defined in § 13–626 of this title, while following a registered vehicle displaying a shuttle permit issued by the Administration;
(9)
A vehicle operated in connection with maritime commerce exclusively within any terminal owned or leased by the Maryland Port Administration;
(10)
A snowmobile that is operated on highways and roadways as prescribed by § 25–102(a)(14) of this article;
(11)
A golf cart that is operated on a highway in accordance with § 21–104.2 of this article;
(12)
A golf cart that is operated on an Allegany County highway as allowed by the county under § 25–102(a)(16) of this article;
(13)
A vehicle owned by an accredited consular or diplomatic officer of a foreign government and operated for official or personal purposes when the vehicle displays a valid diplomatic license plate issued by the United States government;
(14)
A personal delivery device that is operated on a roadway, sidewalk, shoulder, or crosswalk in accordance with § 21–104.3 of this article; or
(15)
A trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer that displays valid registration issued by another jurisdiction.
(d)
(1)
If a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is registered in another state, displays current registration plates issued for it by that state, and is brought into this State by a nonresident for transporting seasonal farm workers to be employed on farms in this State or for work incidental to seasonal crop operations on farms in this State, the vehicle need not be registered in this State if:
(i)
The vehicle is being used as an incidental part of harvesting operations within a distance of not more than 35 miles from the source of the crop; and
(ii)
The owner of the vehicle has obtained an exemption permit for the vehicle, as provided in this subsection.
(2)
When the Administration receives a certification by the Secretary of State Police that a vehicle is entitled to an exemption under this subsection, the Administration shall issue an exemption permit on the form the Secretary of State Police approves. The form shall be carried at all times by the driver of the vehicle for which it is issued or in a conspicuous place on the vehicle.
(3)
The exemption permit is:
(i)
Valid for a period of 90 days from the date of issue; and
(ii)
Eligible for renewal under the procedure set forth in this subsection for an additional period of not more than 90 days in any 1 calendar year.
(4)
The Secretary of State Police:
(i)
May require a certificate of inspection of the equipment of the vehicle; and
(ii)
Shall require a certificate of insurance by a company authorized to do business in this State, certifying that the vehicle is insured to the same extent as required of vehicles registered in this State.
(e)
Except for members elected from this State, if a member of the United States Congress resides in this State during his term of office in the Congress, he need not register his vehicles in this State during that time.
(f)
A trailer or semitrailer operated in intrastate service need not be registered in this State if:
(1)
It is registered in another state;
(2)
The truck tractor or other vehicle that is towing it is registered in this State; and
(3)
The registered owner of the truck tractor or other towing vehicle has at least one trailer or semitrailer registered in this State for each truck tractor also registered in this State.
(g)
(1)
A trailer or semitrailer rented or leased in intrastate service need not be registered in this State if, subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection:
(i)
The trailer or semitrailer has a chassis weight of 1,000 pounds or less;
(ii)
The trailer or semitrailer is registered in another state; and
(iii)
The owner of the trailer or semitrailer annually has registered in this State a number of these trailers and semitrailers that is at least equal to the average number of these trailers and semitrailers that the owner annually will have available in this State for rent or lease in intrastate service.
(2)
If a person claims exemption for a trailer or semitrailer under this subsection, the person shall file annually with the Administration, at the time and in the manner that the Administration requires, an affidavit that sets forth, as to all such trailers and semitrailers that the person has available in all states for rent or lease:
(i)
The total number annually registered in all states;
(ii)
The total number annually registered in this State; and
(iii)
The average total number annually available for rent or lease in this State.
(h)
(1)
A motor vehicle rented in intrastate service need not be registered in this State if, subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection:
(i)
The motor vehicle is registered in another state; and
(ii)
The owner of the motor vehicle annually has registered in this State a percentage of the total number of these motor vehicles in a rental fleet as determined under paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(2)
The percentage of the total number of motor vehicles in a rental fleet that must be registered in this State is determined by dividing the gross revenue received in the preceding year for the use of such rental vehicles arising from all motor vehicle rental transactions occurring in this State by the total gross revenue received in the preceding year for the use of such rental vehicles arising from all motor vehicle rental transactions occurring in all jurisdictions in which the rental fleet is operated. The resulting percentage shall be applied to the total number of motor vehicles in the rental fleet and that figure, to the nearest whole number, shall be the number of rental motor vehicles that shall be fully registered and titled in this State.
(3)
If a person claims exemption for a motor vehicle under this subsection, the person shall file annually with the Administration, at the time and in the manner that the Administration requires, an affidavit that sets forth, as to all such motor vehicles that the person has available in all states for rent:
(i)
The gross revenue received in the preceding year for the use of such rental motor vehicles arising from all motor vehicle rental transactions occurring in Maryland; and
(ii)
The total gross revenue received in the preceding year for the use of such rental motor vehicles arising from all motor vehicle rental transactions occurring in all jurisdictions.
(i)
(1)
A person may not rent to another person a motor vehicle or attempt to rent to another person a motor vehicle in this State in violation of this section.
(2)
A person may not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle on any highway in this State in violation of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-402.1 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–402.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A nonresident may drive or permit the driving of a foreign vehicle in this State, without registering the vehicle in this State, if:
(1)
At all times while driven in this State, the vehicle:
(i)
Is registered in and displays current registration plates issued for it in the owner’s place of residence; and
(ii)
Carries as provided in § 13–409(a) of this subtitle, a current registration card issued for it in the owner’s place of residence; and
(2)
Except as otherwise provided in this section or under an agreement in compliance with Title 12, Subtitle 4 of this article, the vehicle is not:
(i)
Used for transporting persons for hire, compensation, or profit;
(ii)
Regularly operated in carrying on business in this State;
(iii)
Designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property; or
(iv)
In the custody of any resident for more than 30 days during any registration year.
(b)
With the approval of the Governor, the Administration may permit a foreign vehicle to be driven in this State by:
(1)
Issuing complimentary guest cards, permits, or licenses to persons visiting this State from any foreign country; or
(2)
Recognizing and permitting the use of guest cards, permits, or licenses granted by other states.
(c)
If a nonresident is a member of the uniformed services and is serving on active duty in this State or an adjoining state or the District of Columbia, the nonresident need not register the member’s personal passenger vehicles in this State if the vehicles are registered in the state of the member’s residence.
(d)
If a nonresident is a student enrolled in an accredited school, college, or university of this State or of a bordering state or is serving a medical internship in this State, the nonresident need not register his vehicles in this State if:
(1)
The state of which the nonresident is a resident extends the same privileges to the residents of this State; and
(2)
The nonresident meets the required security provisions of the Maryland Vehicle Law as to any vehicle to which this exemption applies.
(e)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, if a nonresident temporarily maintains or occupies a dwelling in this State for a period in excess of 30 days but not in excess of 1 year, the nonresident shall obtain a nonresident’s permit from the Administration, in lieu of registration, within 10 days immediately following the 30–day period.
(2)
A nonresident exempt from registration under subsection (d) of this section shall obtain a nonresident’s permit from the Administration, in lieu of registration, within 30 days of maintaining or occupying a dwelling in this State.
(3)
A nonresident exempt from registration under subsection (c) of this section may obtain a nonresident’s permit from the Administration, in lieu of registration, if the permit application is made within 10 days immediately following the 30–day period.
(4)
(i)
On application, a nonresident’s permit may be issued by the Administration, or an agent designated by the Administration, in a form determined by the Administration.
(ii)
For each nonresident permit it issues, an agent designated by the Administration may collect a fee not to exceed $4 in addition to the nonresident permit fee to offset expenses incurred in the issuance of nonresident permits.
(5)
The application shall be accompanied by:
(i)
A fee established by the Administration;
(ii)
Evidence to reasonably establish that the applicant has a domicile outside of this State and is not a resident as defined in § 11–149 of this article; and
(iii)
Evidence that the nonresident meets the required security provisions of the Maryland Vehicle Law.
(6)
The nonresident permit shall be displayed on the windshield of the nonresident’s exempt vehicle in the place and manner prescribed by the Administration.
(7)
(i)
A nonresident permit issued under paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection shall be issued for a period not to exceed 1 year.
(ii)
A nonresident permit issued under paragraph (3) of this subsection shall be valid until the expiration date of the registration plates of the vehicle to which it is issued.
(iii)
(1)
A nonresident permit issued under paragraph (2) of this subsection may be renewed annually in accordance with the nonresident’s eligibility for the exemption provided in subsection (d) of this section.
(2)
A renewal fee established by the Administration shall be paid at the time of renewal.
(8)
(i)
Of the funds collected under paragraphs (5)(i) and (7)(iii)2 of this subsection, the Administration shall retain an amount equal to its administrative costs under this section.
(ii)
Any excess funds shall be credited to the Gasoline and Motor Vehicle Revenue Account for distribution as highway user revenues in accordance with §§ 8–403 and 8–404 of this article.
(f)
A person may not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle on any highway in this State in violation of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-403 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–403LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the owner of a vehicle subject to registration under this subtitle shall apply to the Administration for the registration of the vehicle in a manner that the Administration requires.
(2)
The application for registration of a low speed vehicle shall be made by electronic transmission under § 13-610 of this title.
(b)
The application shall contain the information that the Administration reasonably requires to determine if the vehicle is entitled to registration.
(c)
If a licensed dealer holds a low speed vehicle for sale and transfers the vehicle to a person other than another licensed dealer, the dealer shall:
(1)
Obtain from the transferee a completed application;
(2)
Collect all fees required to register the low speed vehicle under this subtitle; and
(3)
Within 30 days of the date of delivery of the low speed vehicle, electronically transmit the application and fees in accordance with § 13-610 of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-404 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–404LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section applies to a State agency or political subdivision authorized to regulate parking under Title 26, Subtitle 3 of this article.
(b)
(1)
A State agency or political subdivision in this State may act as the agent of the Administration in the registration of vehicles and in the issuance of registration plates and registration cards.
(2)
At the end of each week, the State agency or political subdivision shall remit to the Administration:
(i)
Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, all fees collected for the registration of vehicles under this section; and
(ii)
A complete record of the registrations made during each day.
(3)
In addition to the registration fees required by this title, the applicant for registration of a vehicle shall pay a fee of $1 for each registration issued by a State agency or political subdivision acting as an agent of the Administration under subsection (b)(1) of this section. The Administration shall retain a portion of this fee in order to offset its costs. The State agency or political subdivision may collect, for each registration issued, an additional fee not to exceed $1 to offset expenses incurred in the issuance of registrations. The amount of the additional fee shall be determined by the State agency or political subdivision.
(4)
The Administration shall adopt rules and regulations to govern the issuance of registration plates and validation tabs by a State agency or political subdivision.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-405 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If an application for registration and certificate of title of a vehicle is accompanied by the required fees, the Administration may issue a temporary registration to permit the vehicle to be driven pending action on the application by the Administration.
(b)
Temporary registration may be issued for a period determined by the Administrator.
(c)
The fee for each temporary registration issued shall be established by the Administration.
(d)
Temporary registration issued under this section may only be issued in the case of sales between persons who are not licensed dealers, and in the case of those transfers set forth in § 23-106(b)(4) of this article.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-405.1 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–405.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On application and payment of the required fee, the Administration may issue a temporary in–transit registration to allow a nonresident owner of a vehicle to operate the vehicle on a highway in the State only for the purpose of transporting the vehicle to a jurisdiction outside the State in which the vehicle is to be titled and registered.
(b)
An application for a temporary in–transit registration may be made only:
(1)
By a nonresident owner of a vehicle; and
(2)
On the form the Administration requires.
(c)
A temporary in–transit registration may be issued for a period determined by the Administration.
(d)
The fee for a temporary in–transit registration shall be established by the Administration.
(e)
(1)
The Administration or a licensed title service agent may issue a temporary in–transit registration.
(2)
A temporary in–transit registration may be issued only after the vehicle owner has furnished to the Administration or title service agent proof of identity, vehicle ownership, and insurance.
(3)
The Administration or a title service agent may not issue more than one temporary in–transit registration for each vehicle sales transaction.
(f)
The Administration shall adopt regulations to carry out this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-405.2 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–405.2LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On application and payment of the required fee, the Administration may issue an electronic or digital 24–hour registration to allow an owner of a vehicle to operate the vehicle on a highway in the State.
(b)
An application for a 24–hour registration shall be made on the online form the Administration requires.
(c)
The fee for a 24–hour registration shall be established by the Administration.
(d)
(1)
A 24–hour registration may be issued only after the vehicle owner has provided to the Administration proof of identity, vehicle identification number, and insurance.
(2)
The Administration may not issue more than one 24–hour registration for each vehicle sales transaction.
(e)
The Administration shall adopt regulations to carry out this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-406 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–406LinkCopy Citation
The Administration shall refuse to register or transfer the registration of any vehicle if:
(1)
The application contains any false or fraudulent statement;
(2)
The applicant has failed to furnish information or documents required or requested by the Administration;
(3)
Any required fee has not been paid;
(4)
The applicant is not entitled to registration of the vehicle under the Maryland Vehicle Law;
(5)
The vehicle is mechanically unfit or unsafe to be operated on the highways;
(6)
The registration of the vehicle is suspended or revoked;
(7)
A warrant for a motor vehicle violation under the Maryland Vehicle Law has been issued against the applicant and has not been served on the applicant;
(8)
Subject to § 13–406.1 of this subtitle, the applicant is named in an outstanding arrest warrant;
(9)
The Administration has reasonable grounds to believe:
(i)
That the vehicle is stolen;
(ii)
That the grant or transfer of registration would be a fraud against another person; or
(iii)
That the vehicle does not comply with Title 2, Subtitle 11 of the Environment Article or any regulations adopted under that subtitle; or
(10)
The gross vehicle weight is 55,000 pounds or over and the applicant has failed to furnish proof of payment of the Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-406.1 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–406.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Law enforcement agency” means:
(i)
A state, county, or municipal police department or agency;
(ii)
A sheriff’s office; or
(iii)
A federal law enforcement agency.
(3)
“Outstanding warrant” means an arrest warrant that:
(i)
A law enforcement agency has attempted, but failed, to serve on the individual named in the warrant due to the inability to locate the individual; and
(ii)
Is at least 31 days old.
(4)
“Primary law enforcement officer” means:
(i)
In a municipal corporation, the chief of police, if any, or the chief’s designee;
(ii)
In a county that has a county police department, the chief of police or the chief’s designee;
(iii)
In a county without a police department, the sheriff or the sheriff’s designee;
(iv)
In Baltimore City, the Police Commissioner or the Police Commissioner’s designee;
(v)
The Secretary of State Police; or
(vi)
The principal law enforcement officers of a federal law enforcement agency or the officer’s designee.
(b)
Subject to subsection (h) of this section, on notification by a law enforcement agency that an applicant for vehicle registration is named in an outstanding warrant, the Administration shall refuse to register or transfer the registration of any vehicle owned by the applicant.
(c)
(1)
Before refusing to register or transfer the registration of a vehicle under subsection (b) of this section, the Administration shall notify the applicant of the proposed action and inform the applicant of the applicant’s right to contest the accuracy of the information on which the refusal is based.
(2)
Any contest under this subsection shall be limited to whether the Administration has mistaken the identity of the individual named in the outstanding warrant or the individual whose registration or transfer of registration has been refused.
(d)
An individual named in an outstanding warrant may appeal a decision of the Administration under this section to refuse to register or transfer the registration of the individual’s vehicle.
(e)
An applicant shall be referred to the law enforcement agency that notified the Administration of the outstanding warrant to resolve any question of whether the outstanding warrant has been satisfied.
(f)
(1)
The Administration shall continue the refusal to register or transfer the registration of a vehicle owned by an individual named in an outstanding warrant until:
(i)
The Administration is ordered by a court to register or transfer the registration of the vehicle; or
(ii)
A law enforcement agency notifies the Administration that:
(1)
The individual named in the outstanding warrant has been arrested; or
(2)
The outstanding warrant has been otherwise satisfied.
(2)
On receipt of an order or notice under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Administration shall allow the applicant to register the vehicle or transfer the registration unless the registration or transfer has been restricted under any other provision of the Maryland Vehicle Law.
(g)
(1)
The Administration, in consultation with the primary law enforcement officers of the State, shall adopt regulations to implement this section.
(2)
The regulations shall include:
(i)
Criteria that a law enforcement agency must meet prior to notifying the Administration that an individual is named in an outstanding warrant;
(ii)
A procedure for informing an individual named in an outstanding warrant:
(1)
That the registration or transfer of the registration of the individual’s vehicle has been refused; and
(2)
Of the manner in which the individual may contest or resolve the refusal;
(iii)
A procedure that must be followed by a law enforcement agency to notify the Administration of changes in the status of an outstanding warrant; and
(iv)
A procedure for the Administration to carry out the refusal of registration as authorized under this section.
(h)
If a law enforcement agency meets the criteria established under subsection (g) of this section, the Administration shall enter into an agreement with the appropriate primary law enforcement officer that provides for the notification to the Administration of persons named in outstanding warrants.
(i)
(1)
In addition to any other fee or penalty provided by law, the owner of a vehicle refused registration under this section shall pay a fee established by the Administration before renewal of the registration of the vehicle.
(2)
The fee under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be retained by the Administration and may not be credited to the Gasoline and Motor Vehicle Revenue Account for distribution under § 8-403 or § 8-404 of this article.
(j)
The procedures specified in this section are in addition to any other penalty provided by law for the failure to meet the demands specified in a warrant.
(k)
This section may not be construed to require the Administration to arrest a person named in an outstanding warrant.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-406.2 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–406.2LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Administration may not renew or transfer the registration of any vehicle if the applicant has not paid all undisputed taxes and unemployment insurance contributions payable to the Comptroller or the Secretary of Labor or provided for payment in a manner satisfactory to the unit responsible for collection.
(b)
The Administration shall cooperate with the Comptroller and the Maryland Department of Labor to develop procedures and adopt regulations in accordance with this section.
(c)
Regulations adopted under this section shall require:
(1)
The Comptroller to notify the Administration that an individual has not paid all undisputed taxes; and
(2)
The Maryland Department of Labor to notify the Administration that an individual has not paid all undisputed unemployment insurance contributions.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-407 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–407LinkCopy Citation
The Administration shall:
(1)
File each application for registration that it receives;
(2)
Register the described vehicle if it finds that the applicant is entitled to the registration; and
(3)
Keep a record of the registration in a manner that permits identification of the vehicle and its owner.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-408 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–408LinkCopy Citation
When it registers a vehicle, the Administration shall issue and deliver to the owner a registration card that contains:
(1)
The date issued;
(2)
The name and Maryland address of the owner;
(3)
The registration number assigned by the Administration to the vehicle; and
(4)
Such description of the vehicle as the Administrator determines.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-409 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–409LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An individual who is driving or in control of a vehicle shall carry a registration card in the vehicle to which the registration card refers.
(b)
On demand of a police officer who identifies himself as a police officer, an individual who is driving or in control of a vehicle shall display a registration card that refers to the vehicle.
(c)
An individual may satisfy subsection (a) or (b) of this section by carrying in the vehicle and making available a valid rental agreement in place of a registration card in the case of a rental vehicle that is:
(1)
Rented under the provisions of Title 18 of this article; or
(2)
Rented or leased for a period not exceeding 180 days and registered in another state.
(d)
This section does not apply if the card is being used to apply for the transfer of registration of the vehicle.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-410 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–410LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as otherwise provided in this title, when it registers a vehicle, the Administration shall issue to the owner:
(i)
One registration plate, if the vehicle is:
(1)
A Class D (motorcycle) vehicle;
(2)
A Class F (tractor) vehicle;
(3)
A Class G (trailer) vehicle;
(4)
A Class L (historic) vehicle that was manufactured at least 50 years before the current model year; or
(5)
A Class N (street rod) vehicle that was manufactured at least 50 years before the current model year; and
(ii)
Two registration plates for every other vehicle.
(2)
However, as to temporary registration, the Administration may provide for the issuance of only one temporary registration plate for any vehicle.
(b)
(1)
Each registration plate shall display:
(i)
The registration number assigned to the vehicle for which it is issued; and
(ii)
The name of this State, which may be abbreviated.
(2)
The registration number may consist of letters, numerals, or both.
(c)
(1)
This subsection applies only to the following vehicles:
(i)
A Class A (passenger) vehicle;
(ii)
A Class E (truck) vehicle registered or capable of registration under § 13-917 of this title; and
(iii)
A Class M (multipurpose) vehicle.
(2)
At the option of the registered owner of a vehicle for which registration plates are issued under this title, in addition to the information otherwise required to be shown on the registration plates, the registration plates may display a sticker indicating the name of the county, including Baltimore City, in which the owner of the vehicle resides.
(3)
The Administration shall:
(i)
Approve a sticker design option that complies with paragraph (2) of this subsection; and
(ii)
Offer to each vehicle owner applying for new or replacement registration plates under this title the option to select a sticker that displays the owner’s county of residence.
(4)
In addition to the annual registration fee otherwise required under this title, the Administration may charge a fee, not to exceed its costs, for issuing or replacing the county sticker offered under this subsection.
(5)
A vehicle owner may not display stickers that show a county name other than the owner’s county of residence.
(6)
A county sticker issued under this subsection may not be placed on a special registration plate or a commemorative registration plate issued under Subtitle 6 of this title.
(d)
Registration plates may be reflectorized and shall be manufactured of a material warranted to have a durability of at least 5 years. However, prior to registration plates being reflectorized, the Administration shall obtain approval of the General Assembly through a budget item.
(e)
(1)
During subsequent registration years, the Administrator may order the continued use of registration plates that are valid during any current registration year, and, after so doing, the Administrator shall issue, at the time a vehicle’s registration is renewed, a validation tab to evidence payment of the vehicle’s annual registration fee.
(2)
The tab shall be displayed on the plates of the vehicle in the manner that the Administrator requires.
(3)
The Administrator from time to time shall evaluate the condition of registration plates issued under this title and may provide for the manufacture and issuance of new registration plates. These new registration plates shall be issued and subsequently validated in the manner required by this subtitle.
(f)
Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (d) of this section, the Administration may issue reflectorized registration plates under §§ 13–618 and 13–619 of this title.
(g)
The dimensions of a registration plate issued for a Class D (motorcycle) vehicle shall be 7 inches wide by 4 inches high.
(h)
A registration plate that is required to be returned to the Administration may be returned through the mail.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-411 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–411LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On a vehicle for which two registration plates are required, one plate shall be attached on the front and the other on the rear of the vehicle.
(b)
On a vehicle for which one registration plate is required, the plate shall be attached on the:
(1)
Front of the vehicle for a Class F (tractor) vehicle; and
(2)
Rear of the vehicle for every other vehicle.
(c)
(1)
At all times, each registration plate shall be:
(i)
Maintained free from foreign materials, including registration plate covers as defined in § 13–411.1 of this subtitle, and in a condition to be clearly legible; and
(ii)
Securely fastened to the vehicle for which it is issued:
(1)
In a horizontal position;
(2)
In a manner that prevents the plate from swinging; and
(3)
In a place and position to be clearly visible.
(2)
For a violation involving the placement of an object framing or bordering the edges of a registration plate, a police officer may enforce this subsection only as a secondary action when the police officer detains a driver of a motor vehicle for a suspected violation of another provision of the Code.
(d)
Except as otherwise expressly permitted by the Maryland Vehicle Law, as to any vehicle required to be registered under this title, a person may not drive the vehicle on any highway in this State, unless there is attached to the vehicle and displayed on it, as required in this title:
(1)
A registration plate or plates issued for the vehicle by the Administration for the current registration period; and
(2)
Any validation tab issued for the vehicle under this subtitle.
(e)
Except as otherwise expressly permitted by the Maryland Vehicle Law, as to any vehicle required to be registered under this title, the owner of the vehicle may not permit the vehicle to be driven on any highway in this State, unless there is attached to and displayed on the vehicle, as required in this title:
(1)
A registration plate or plates issued by the Administration for the current registration period; and
(2)
Any validation tab issued for the vehicle under this subtitle.
(f)
Except as otherwise expressly permitted by the Maryland Vehicle Law, a vehicle used or driven in this State may not display on either its front or rear any expired registration plate issued by any state.
(g)
Except as otherwise expressly permitted by the Maryland Vehicle Law, a person may not display or permit to be displayed on any vehicle used or driven in this State any registration plate issued for another vehicle or to a person other than the owner of the vehicle.
(h)
(1)
A vehicle registered as a historic or antique vehicle (Class L) in this State or in another state, when used or driven in this State, may display vintage registration plates as an indication of the historic or antique nature of the vehicle. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the place on the vehicle provided for the display of registration plates may only be used for the display of current registration plates in accordance with subsections (a) through (c) of this section, and any vintage registration plates which are used shall be displayed elsewhere on the vehicle.
(2)
If the Administration authorizes the display of vintage registration plates in lieu of current registration plates, as provided in § 13-936.1 of this title, the vintage registration plates shall be displayed as required under subsections (a) through (c) of this section. However, the current registration plates shall be kept in the vehicle at all times.
(i)
It is the duty of every police officer to report to the Administration all vehicles operated in violation of this section. The Administration shall verify whether the owner of a reported vehicle has complied with this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-411.1 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–411.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “registration plate cover” means any tinted, colored, painted, marked, or illuminated object that is designed to:
(1)
Obscure or block any of the characters of a vehicle’s registration plate; or
(2)
Distort a recorded image of any of the characters of a vehicle’s registration plate recorded by a traffic control signal monitoring system under § 21–202.1 of this article.
(b)
A person may not sell or offer for sale a registration plate cover.
(c)
(1)
A person may not advertise for the purpose of promoting the sale of registration plate covers.
(2)
A person may not advertise for or promote the sale of an unlawful registration plate cover by falsely claiming that the registration plate cover is lawful in the State.
(d)
A violation of subsection (c)(2) of this section is:
(1)
An unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practice within the meaning of Title 13 of the Commercial Law Article; and
(2)
In addition to the penalty under § 27–101 of this article, subject to the enforcement and penalty provisions contained in Title 13 of the Commercial Law Article.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-412 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–412LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, unless current validation tabs have been issued by the Administration and are displayed on the plates as provided in this subtitle, the registration and the registration plates issued under this title for them expire at midnight on the dates indicated on the registration card issued by the Administration.
(b)
(1)
The Administration may issue a temporary authorization certificate permitting a vehicle to be driven pending the issuance of current validation tabs.
(2)
A temporary authorization certificate:
(i)
Shall be issued for a period determined by the Administration not to exceed 15 days; and
(ii)
Is not transferable and may not be used on another vehicle other than the one to which it was issued.
(3)
A fee for a temporary authorization certificate may be established by the Administration.
(c)
The Administration shall adopt rules and regulations to govern the issuance, display, and expiration of registrations, registration cards, registration plates, temporary authorization certificates, and validation tabs.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-413 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–413LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, the Administration may adopt a system of multiyear registration.
(b)
Vehicle registration plates or validation tabs shall be issued and displayed in accordance with a schedule established by the Administrator.
(c)
The fee for a multiyear registration is the same as the annual registration fee established under this title multiplied by the number of years for which the registration is issued.
(d)
The Administration shall refund the registration fees upon surrender of the registration card and registration plates if the return is made before the beginning of any 12-month registration year for which the application for refund is made.
(e)
The Administration may adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-414 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–414LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If any person who has applied for or obtained the registration of a vehicle moves from the address given in the application or shown on the registration card, the person shall, within 30 days of the change, notify the Administration of the former address and new address.
(b)
If the name of any individual who has applied for or obtained the registration of a vehicle is later changed by marriage or by court order, or if the name of any other person who has applied for or obtained the registration of a vehicle is later changed as provided by law, the person shall, within 30 days of the change, notify the Administration of the former name and the new name and apply for a corrected registration certification on the form that the Administration requires. On receipt of the application, the Administration shall issue a corrected registration certificate without charge.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-415 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–415LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a current registration card or current validation tabs that never have been affixed to registration plates are lost, the owner of the vehicle for which the card or tabs were issued or the legal representative of the owner named in the certificate of title of the vehicle, as shown by the records of the Administration, immediately shall apply for and, after furnishing information satisfactory to the Administration and payment of the required fee, is entitled to obtain a duplicate registration card or replacement validation tabs.
(b)
If a current registration card or current validation tabs that never have been affixed to registration plates are stolen, the owner of the vehicle for which the card or tabs were issued or the legal representative of the owner named in the certificate of title, as shown by the records of the Administration, immediately shall apply for and, after furnishing information satisfactory to the Administration and payment of the required fee, is entitled to obtain a duplicate registration card or replacement validation tabs.
(c)
If a current registration card or current validation tabs that never have been affixed to registration plates are damaged to the extent that the registration card or validation tabs are illegible, the owner of the vehicle for which the card or tabs were issued or the legal representative of the owner named in the certificate of title, as shown by the records of the Administration, immediately shall apply for and, after furnishing information satisfactory to the Administration and payment of the required fee, is entitled to obtain a duplicate registration card or replacement validation tabs.
(d)
(1)
If a current registration plate is lost, the owner of the vehicle for which the registration was issued immediately shall place on the vehicle a temporary number plate bearing the vehicle’s registration number.
(2)
The temporary plate shall be displayed as nearly as possible in the same manner as provided in this subtitle for the registration plate.
(e)
(1)
If a current registration plate is stolen, the owner of the vehicle for which the registration was issued immediately shall place on the vehicle a temporary number plate bearing the vehicle’s registration number.
(2)
The temporary plate shall be displayed as nearly as possible in the same manner as provided in this subtitle for the registration plate.
(f)
(1)
If a current registration plate is damaged to the extent that the registration plate is illegible, the owner of the vehicle for which the registration was issued immediately shall place on the vehicle a temporary number plate bearing the vehicle’s registration number.
(2)
The temporary plate shall be displayed as nearly as possible in the same manner as provided in this subtitle for the registration plate.
(g)
Within 48 hours after the loss, theft, or damage to the extent of illegibility of any current registration plate or any current validation tab that has been affixed to a registration plate, the owner of the vehicle for which the plate or tab was issued or the legal representative of the owner named in the certificate of title of the vehicle, as shown by the records of the Administration, shall notify the Administration and apply for replacement registration plates, a replacement registration card, and replacement validation tabs. The Administration shall supply the replacements on receiving information satisfactory to it and payment of the required fee.
(h)
On receipt of the replacements, the original registration card and all of the original registration plates and validation tabs issued for that vehicle shall be surrendered to the Administration.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-416 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–416LinkCopy Citation
The Administration may not charge a recipient of the Medal of Honor a fee for the renewal of the registration of a vehicle owned by the Medal of Honor recipient.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-417 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–417LinkCopy Citation
The Administrator may adopt rules and regulations governing the registration of a motor vehicle in which one engine has been changed or substituted for another.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-420 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–420LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
A school type vehicle operated on a regular daily basis to transport students attending grades K through 12 shall be registered under this section.
(2)
A school type vehicle otherwise operated to transport persons for educational purposes or maintained by an educational institution as part of a transportation system shall be registered, at the option of the registrant:
(i)
Under this section; or
(ii)
Under any other appropriate section of this title.
(3)
The Administration may establish guidelines for the registration of school type vehicles in accordance with this section.
(b)
If it is only operated for the transportation of children, students, or teachers for educational purposes or in connection with a school activity or if it is operated, with approval from a board of education in any county, to provide transportation for persons 60 years old or older to civic, educational, social, or recreational activities, a Type I school vehicle (school bus) shall:
(1)
Display distinctive “school bus” registration plates issued by the Administration; and
(2)
Comply with all the requirements of the Maryland Vehicle Law and the regulations of the Administration that relate to a Type I school vehicle.
(c)
(1)
If it is operated for any purpose in addition to those specified in subsection (b) of this section, a Type I school vehicle (school bus) shall display distinctive “school charter” registration plates issued by the Administration.
(2)
The Administration shall issue “school charter” plates:
(i)
In place of and not in addition to “school bus” plates; and
(ii)
Only to vehicles complying with all the requirements of the Maryland Vehicle Law and the regulations of the Administration that relate to a Type I school vehicle.
(d)
A Type II school vehicle shall:
(1)
Display distinctive registration plates issued by the Administration; and
(2)
Comply with all the requirements of the Maryland Vehicle Law and the regulations of the Administration that relate to a Type II school vehicle.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-422 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–422LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A motor vehicle used in vanpool operations shall be registered under this section.
(b)
Before the Administration initially registers any used vehicle as a vanpool vehicle or renews the registration of any vanpool vehicle, the applicant shall present to the Administration an inspection certificate for the vehicle issued under Title 23 of this article with a date of issuance not more than 90 days prior to the date of application for or renewal of registration.
(c)
Before the Administration registers or renews the registration of any vanpool vehicle, the applicant shall present to the Administration evidence of insurance for the vehicle and its occupants in an amount at least equal to:
(1)
Five times the minimum coverage required by § 17-103(b)(1) of this article for the payment of claims for bodily injury or death;
(2)
The minimum coverage required by § 17-103(b)(2) of this article for property damage claims; and
(3)
The minimum benefits required by § 17-103(b)(3) and (4) of this article.
(d)
If a vanpool operation is a company organized operation, the company may not require participation of an employee as a condition of employment.
(e)
If a vanpool operation is a company organized operation, the company may not discriminate against any employee in the use of a vanpool.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-423 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–423LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each motor vehicle for which a permit is required from the Public Service Commission under § 9–201 of the Public Utilities Article shall be registered under this title.
(b)
Each motor vehicle used in the interstate transportation of passengers for hire shall be registered under this title.
(c)
The owner of a motor vehicle specified in subsection (a) of this section when registering or renewing the registration of the vehicle shall:
(1)
Secure a permit from the Public Service Commission, or other appropriate agency, to operate on the highways;
(2)
Present the permit to the Administration;
(3)
Make application for registration or renewal of registration as required by the Administration; and
(4)
Pay to the Administration all applicable fees required for registration under this title.
(d)
No portion of the registration fee or other fees paid on vehicles required to be registered under this section will be refunded for any part of the year during which the vehicle is not used, unless pursuant to an order issued by an agency of the State or the United States government, the owner of the vehicle discontinues operation of the vehicle. If operation is discontinued a person may, at any time on or after the effective date of the order, surrender to the Administration the registration plates issued to the vehicle and apply for a refund of the registration fee paid for the vehicle prorated for the unused portion of the registration year.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 13-424 (2026)
Title 13. Vehicle Laws -- Certificates of Title and Registration of Vehicles
Subtitle 4. Registration of Vehicles
§ 13–424LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The owner of a fleet of five or more rental vehicles may register any rental vehicle in the fleet:
(1)
Under this section; or
(2)
Under § 13–939.1 of this title.
(b)
The Administration:
(1)
Shall issue distinctive “Fleet Vehicle” registration plates for any rental vehicle registered under this section; and
(2)
May not require the attachment, display, or issuance of a validation tab for a rental vehicle registered under this section.
(c)
To the extent practicable, registration under this section for each rental vehicle that is part of the same fleet shall expire on the same date.
(d)
(1)
The registration fee for a rental vehicle registered under this section is as determined under § 13–939.1 of this title.
(2)
In addition to the annual registration fee, an owner of a rental vehicle registered under this section shall pay a one–time initial registration fee not exceeding $8.50 when the new registration plates are issued.