Vehicle Title Transfer in Maryland
Certain types of vehicles require the seller and buyer to conduct a title transfer. This is the legal procedure that transfers ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer. Once the buyer obtains the title in his name, he is free to take possession of the vehicle and do with it as he pleases. A jurisdiction's tax authority frequently handles the transfer.
When someone buys, inherits, or gets a vehicle as a gift, they must change the title from the name of the prior owner to the new owner’s name.
If you need to transfer ownership of your Maryland car title, you and the seller or the buyer of the vehicle should visit the MD MVA (Motor Vehicle Administration) together to prevent any complications and confusion throughout the title transfer process (this is not required).
What Documents Do You Need to Transfer a Car Title in Maryland?
Most applicants will require the following documents in order to complete a title transfer in Maryland:
- Proof of ownership
- A document demonstrating the value of the car or the sum paid
- The Bill of Sale
- Current odometer reading
- Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate Application Form
- Inspection certificate, lease agreement, and evidence of monthly payments (if applicable).
- Lien information and lien release (if applicable)
- Legal representative (if applicable)
- Payment of tax and fees
Title Transfer Fees: How Much Is a Title Transfer in Maryland?
In addition to completing and submitting all of the transfer of title documentation, you need to pay the title transfer fees and a few other fees too. These fees vary depending on the class and the weight of the vehicle, but we will provide you with the breakdown of the costs you will need to cover:
- The base title transfer fee
- Security interest filing fee for each lien filed.
- VEIP test and the VEIP late penalty charge (applicable if the vehicle is late for emission inspection and the “valid through” date has passed).
- The titling tax
- Vehicle registration, driving records, title files, and licensing paperwork
Although the entire process of transferring a title in Maryland may seem complex and overwhelming, we at swift-tags.com are experienced with it and we will make sure the process goes smoothly and hassle-free.
Common Reasons for a Title Transfer
In Maryland, you need to complete a title transfer if you have just changed your address or if you are purchasing or selling a vehicle. Aside from that, there are several more reasons for a title transfer:
- Gifting a vehicle to another person.
- Including a spouse or a civil partner in the title as joint ownership.
- Making a cohabitant or a family member a part of the title.
- Putting a separation agreement into effect.
- Donating a vehicle.
- Inheriting a vehicle.
- Paying off a vehicle loan.
Who Does the Car Title Transfer in Maryland?
To complete the title transfer procedure, the car buyer needs to go to an MVA office. You may begin the procedure online to save money and time on paperwork. The MVA website contains the title and registration forms.
In Maryland, you have 60 days to register your car. Otherwise, you will no longer be eligible for a tax credit for out-of-state titling taxes and you may be charged a fee.
If you are buying the car from a dealer, they will provide you with a Bill of sale and temporary license plate. You will get the Maryland Certificate of Title in the mail later.
If you are buying the car from an out-of-state dealer, then you must submit the application paperwork and vehicle information by yourself, such as your license plate number, VIN, and vehicle model and manufacture.
It may take up to 8 weeks to acquire your new title once you have submitted all of your papers.
Where Should You Go to Transfer a Vehicle Title in Maryland?
To transfer ownership of a vehicle in Maryland, you’ll need to visit a local DMV or the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office. If you have all of the required documents, you can opt for an easier alternative and transfer the vehicle title online via swift-tags.com.
Maryland Car Title Transfer: FAQs
How do I transfer the title of a car in Maryland?
You can do this by visiting the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, submitting the required documentation and covering the applicable fees. Alternatively, you can complete the title transfer online using swift-tags.com
Does Maryland require a notary for title transfer?
If you submit a Bill of sale, you will need a notary to witness both the buyer's and seller's signatures in order to finalize the transaction. There is a place on the "Maryland Certificate of Title" for the purchase price, and you will not require a Bill of sale unless the car is 7 years old or newer and being sold for less than the book value.
How much does it cost to transfer a car title in MD?
There are multiple costs included in the car title transfer in Maryland: the base title transfer fee, security interest filing fee for each lien filed, VEIP test (and the VEIP late penalty charge if the vehicle is late for emission inspection), the titling tax and relevant paperwork for vehicle registration, driving records, title files, and licensing.
