Register Car in Maryland

• If you elect to save time and register and title simultaneously, your car's title will serve as the application form. Otherwise, if the vehicle has an out-of-state title, present a completed Application for Certificate of Title (form VR-005). Or, if the vehicle has a Maryland title, provide a completed Application for New Plates/Stickers & Transfer of Plates or Non-Title Trailers. Both applications can be downloaded from the MVA's website.
• Proof of insurance.
• A Safety Inspection Certificate, which is valid for 90 days (see below for inspection information).
• Payment for registration and, if applicable, title. Registration fees vary, depending on a vehicle's class and weight and license plate type. 

A Maryland registration is valid for two years. 

MD Safety Inspection

You must take your vehicle to a state-approved inspection station. There are close to 1,600 stations across the state, making it easy to find one in your area. If you need plates to drive to the inspection, contact the MVA about obtaining a 30-day temporary registration. 

Maryland Emissions Testing for Smog

Three months after your car registration date, Maryland's Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) will send you a notification for a smog check. To comply with state law, you will need to have your vehicle inspected only if your vehicle is registered in one of the following counties: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George's, Queen Anne's and Washington. 

When you arrive for the test, have your test notice an/or your registration certificate, and payment for $14 test fee.