HOV permit Issuance

Updated: June 5, 2023

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Date: June 5, 2023
Bulletin: All Dealers and Title Service
From: Central Operations Vehicles Division 

Beginning Monday June 12, 2023, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA) will resume the issuance of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) permits. 

The vehicle must meet all the qualifications listed below to use the HOV lanes in Maryland:

A “plug-in electric drive vehicle” means a motor vehicle that: 

• is made by a manufacturer;
• is manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads, and highways;
• is rated at not more than 8,500 pounds unloaded gross vehicle weight;
• has a maximum speed capability of at least 55 miles per hour; and
• is propelled to a significant extent by an electric motor that draws electricity from a battery that (1) has a capacity of not less than 4 kilowatt-hours for 4-wheeled motor vehicles and not less than 2.5 
  kilowatt-hours for 2-wheeled or 3-wheeled motor vehicles and (2) is capable of being recharged from an external source of electricity. 

A vehicle that meets these qualifications but was modified from its original manufacturer specifications is also a plug-in electric drive vehicle.

Permit Placement:
The permit must be affixed on the rear of the vehicle in a visible position within 12 inches of the license plate, but not on the window. Note: A new permit must be placed over an existing one.

How to apply for a HOV permit: 

• Online:
  • On the eServices myMVA page, the request can be found in the following places:
    • view All myMVA Services (A-Z) -> HOV Permit:
  • When logged into your myMVA account:
    • Find the vehicle -> More Options. It will be in the ‘Registration’ panel:
• The dealership selling the plug-in electric vehicle can issue the permit as a part of the ERT transaction
• A customer can visit a MDOT MVA Branch office
• By mail: The application for Plug in electric Vehicle HOV permit (VR-335) must be submitted with the appropriate fee to the MDOT MVA 6601 Ritchie Highway N.E, Room 202, Glen Burnie, MD 21062 

There is a $5 fee for the HOV permit.

If you have any questions, please contact us at 410-768-7000.