An official website of the State of Maryland.

Maryland.gov Translate

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration

Remove Vehicle Flags

A vehicle flag is a hold placed on your vehicle record.
If your vehicle has a flag, you may not be able to:

  • Renew your registration
  • Transfer a title
  • Complete other MVA transactions

You must remove the vehicle flag before the MVA can process these services.

 

What Is a Vehicle Flag?

A vehicle flag alerts the MVA to an unresolved issue connected to your vehicle or registration.
Flags are placed by the MVA or other agencies when action is required.

 

Common Reasons for Vehicle Flags

Your vehicle may have a flag due to:

  • Insurance lapses or insurance compliance issues
  • Unpaid tolls, citations, or fines
  • Emissions inspection problems
  • Returned payments or other unresolved transactions

The type of flag determines how it must be cleared.

 

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
  • By contacting the MVA

If a transaction stops and shows a message about a flag, you must resolve it before continuing.

 

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

You must correct the underlying problem, such as:

  • Providing proof of valid insurance
  • Paying outstanding tolls or fines
  • Completing an emissions inspection
  • Resolving payment issues

In some cases, you may need to work with another agency before the flag can be cleared.

 

Step 3: Confirm the Flag Is Removed

Once the issue is resolved:

  • Allow 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.

 

Insurance-Related 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.

Related link:
Maryland Auto Insurance Requirements

 

Emissions and Other Compliance Flags

If your flag is related to emissions or inspections:

  • Complete the required inspection
  • Ensure results are reported to the MVA

Some compliance flags may take additional time to clear after completion.

 

What Happens After the Flag Is Removed

Once the flag is cleared, you may:

  • Renew your vehicle registration
  • Complete title or registration transactions
  • Proceed with other MVA services

If a flag remains after you believe it was resolved, contact the MVA for assistance.

 

Need Help?

If you are unsure why your vehicle has a flag or how to remove it, the MVA can help explain your next steps.

Call to action:
Contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration

 

Ready to Continue?

Before renewing your registration or completing another transaction, make sure all vehicle flags are cleared.

Resolve your vehicle flag, verify your record, or contact the MVA for assistance.