Remove Vehicle Flags
What is a vehicle flag?
A vehicle flag is a hold placed on your vehicle record by the Motor Vehicle Association (MVA) or another agency when there's an unresolved issue. You must remove the vehicle flag before the MVA can process certain services.
What a vehicle flag prevents you from doing
If your vehicle has a flag, you may not be able to:
- Renew your registration
- Transfer a title
- Complete other MVA transactions
Common reasons for vehicle flags
Your vehicle may have a flag due to:
- Insurance lapse or compliance issues
- Unpaid tolls, citations or fines
- Emissions inspection problems
- Returned payments or other unresolved transactions
How to find out if you have a vehicle flag
You can check for vehicle flags:
- On your registration renewal notice
- During an online transaction through your myMVA account
- By contacting the MVA
If you see a flag message during an online transaction, you must resolve the issue before proceeding.
How to remove a vehicle flag
Step 1: Identify the flag type
Review the notice or message to see what type of flag is listed. Each flag has specific requirements for removal.
Step 2: Resolve the issue
Depending on the flag type, you may need to:
- Provide proof of valid insurance
- Pay outstanding tolls or fines
- Complete an emissions inspection
- Resolve a payment issue
In some cases, you may need to work with another agency before the flag can be cleared.
Insurance flags
Maryland law requires continuous vehicle insurance coverage. If your flag is insurance-related, you must provide valid proof of insurance that meets Maryland requirements. Learn about auto insurance requirements in Maryland.
Inspections & other compliance flags
If your flag is related to emissions or safety inspections, complete the required inspection and make sure the results are reported to the MVA.
Some compliance flags may take additional time to clear.
Step 3: Confirm the flag has been removed
After resolving the issue, allow some time for records to update. Some flags clear automatically. Others require confirmation from the MVA.
Do not attempt to complete another transaction until the flag is removed.
If a flag remains after you believe it was resolved, contact the MVA for assistance.
What you can do after a flag is removed
Once the flag is cleared, you may:
- Renew your vehicle registration
- Complete title or registration transactions
- Proceed with other MVA services
Questions? We can help.
Contact the MVA if you have questions or need more information.