Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to turn in my damaged car title?

If you have your mutilated or damaged car title on your person, then you will be required to turn it in to your nearest MVA branch. By doing so, this will help ensure that your damaged car title doesn t accidentally get in the wrong hands, and it can then be noted in the system that you are requesting a duplicate.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

How do I file a police report if my car title was stolen?

In the event that you have a stolen car title, head to your nearest police station to file a report. The process is simple and straightforward: Simply speak to a law enforcement officer about your situation and request to obtain a police report. Take this crucial document with you to a local MVA branch when completing the process for a duplicate car title.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

How do I obtain a duplicate car title?

The state of Maryland makes it easy for drivers to replace car title online or in person. To get a replacement online, visit the Maryland MVA website and follow the instructions on the screen. In person, you have the option to use a MVA Self-Serve Kiosk, visit a tag and title office or make your way to a MVA branch. When making your request at a branch, you will be required to submit an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

How do I obtain a salvaged car title?

To request a title for car, you will first need a MD salvaged vehicle inspection conducted by the Maryland State Police. Thereafter, visit a local MVA branch and present these documents:

  • Proof of car title
  • MD Safety Inspection Certificate
  • Bill of Sale
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement
  • Application for Certificate of Title

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

How do I transfer my car title between states?

If you are in the process of moving, get in touch with the DMV of the new state you are relocating to. Their DMV rules and regulations may differ from that of Maryland s, therefore it is important to find out about their proper registration process. When visiting a DMV office, make sure to bring your drivers license, as well as any current registration tags and stickers you have with you.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

How do I transfer my car title if I lost the original?

If you lost your original DMV car title, you are required to request a duplicate before selling your vehicle or purchasing one from a private party. In order to obtain a duplicate car title in Maryland, you can do so online, in person or by mail.

When requesting a duplicate title by mail, fill out an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title and send a copy of your drivers license, along with payment for the $20 replacement fee to this address:

Motor Vehicle Administration 6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E. Glen Burnie, Maryland 21062

If you have your damaged or mutilated car title on hand, send it with your application.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

How do I transfer my car title?

For a vehicle purchased at a dealership:

The dealership will usually handle the titling and car registration process for you by submitting all the required paperwork to the Maryland MVA. You will be provided with temporary license plates as you await your permanent registration documentation in the mail.

For a used vehicle purchased through a private party:

When preparing documentation to visit your local MVA office and request new car registration, you will need to gather a number of items that show proof of car ownership and insurance. You will also be required to submit payment for the registration fee.

For a vehicle that was transferred as a gift:

In order for a vehicle to be transferred as a gift, both parties must be immediate family members. You will be required to present a completed Application for Maryland Gift Certification. If there is a lien attached to the vehicle, you will need to contact the MVA at 1-410-768-7000 for further instructions.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

How do I transfer the title of my RV?

The state of Maryland has different types of registration regulations in place for trailers and mobile homes. Contact your local MVA branch to inquire about the process you must adhere to for your RV. In the event that you need to have it titled and registered, make sure to bring your Maryland driver s license with you to your in-person appointment.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

How long does it take to receive my replacement car title after ordering online?

If you are ordering your car title replacement online, contact the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration at 1-410-768-7000 to find out when you should expect to receive your new car title. When placing your online request, make sure to have payment ready in the form of a credit card or debit card to complete your transaction.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

If a family member dies and leaves his or her car to me, how do I switch over the title?

In the event that a family member passed away and left his or her car to you, you can transfer car title to your name by visiting a full service MVA branch with these documents:

  • Existing car title
  • Application for Certificate of Car Title
  • Death certificate of your loved one

Make sure to also bring proper payment for the transfer of car title and registration fees.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

What are some reasons that may require me to transfer my car title?

You may find yourself in a position to transfer your Maryland car title if any of the following applies to you:

  • You are moving to a new state.
  • You have received a vehicle as a gift.
  • You have received your vehicle from a deceased loved one who left it for you.
  • You are adding an owner to your vehicle.
  • You have satisfied a vehicle lien.
  • You have purchased your vehicle through a private party.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

What are the required fees to get a replacement car title?

If you are in the process of requesting a car title replacement, you will be required to submit payment for a $20 fee. Only a money order or check is accepted when sending your request by mail. It must be made payable to the MD Motor Vehicle Administration.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

What documents do I need to present for a replacement car title?

If requesting a Maryland duplicate car title in person, bring the following documents with you:

  • Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title
  • Your Maryland driver license
  • Your damaged car title (if you have)

If applying at a Self-Serve Kiosk, you can request to your drivers license mailed to a different address than the one the MVA has on file.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

What documents do I need to transfer my car title?

If you are transferring a car title to your name at your local MVA branch, you will need to show up with the following documentation:

  • The original car title that was assigned to you
  • Bill of Sale (must be notarized if vehicle is less than seven years old)
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement
  • MD Safety Inspection Certificate
  • Application for Certificate of Title

At the time of your visit, you will also need to submit payment to transfer your car title.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

What forms must I fill out for a duplicate car title?

In order to get an MD car title copy, you must complete an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title. To save time, you can print this application online and complete it prior to your MVA visit. If you prefer to obtain a copy of the application in person, your local MVA branch will also be able to provide you one.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

What if the original is located after my car title replacement has been issued?

Your original vehicle title will be considered invalid if you have already requested a car title replacement. If you are uncertain about what you should do with your original, contact the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration at 1-410-768-7000. If you are deaf or hard-of-hearing, call 1-301-729-4563 instead.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

What is the process to get a title for a scooter or motorcycle?

The state of Maryland requires you to get car title for your motorcycle just as you would for a passenger vehicle. If you purchased your motorcycle at a dealership, they will handle this process for you. However, if it was acquired through a private seller, you need to make an in-person visit to your local MVA branch or tag and title office.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

When should I complete a Bill of Sale?

A Bill of Sale should be turned in at your local MVA branch or tag and title office when you are purchasing a vehicle from a private seller. This form will contain specific information about your vehicle s description, as well as its current mileage and the price it was sold for. Include the following details on your Bill of Sale:

  • Vehicle s model
  • Vehicle s year
  • Vehicle s make
  • Vehicle Identification Number
  • Your name, address and signature
  • Other party s name, address and signature

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Maryland

Where can I mail my request for a replacement title?

Before submitting your request by mail, fill out the Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title with information such as your name, address, vehicle description and signature at the bottom. You will also need to attach proper payment for the duplicate fee, in the amount of $20. Payment by mail can only be made via money order or check that is payable to the Motor Vehicle Administration.

Once you have gathered these aforementioned items, you can then send your Maryland duplicate car title request to:

Motor Vehicle Administration 6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E. Glen Burnie, Maryland 21062

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland

Will I need to present proof of insurance to get a car title replacement?

If replacing car titles at a local MVA branch, you will need to bring the following documentation with you:

  • Your valid Maryland drivers license
  • Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title
  • Your damaged car title (if in your possession)

For further proof of identity and vehicle ownership, you should also show your car insurance card. Additionally, be ready to make payment for the $20 duplicate fee.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Maryland