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MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration

Renew Registration

You must renew your vehicle registration to keep driving legally in Maryland. Registration renewal confirms that your vehicle is insured and eligible to be on the road.

Most registrations must be renewed every two years, unless otherwise noted.

 

When to Renew Your Registration

You should renew your registration:

  • Before your current registration expires
  • When you receive a renewal notice from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)

Driving with an expired registration may result in fines or other enforcement action.

 

Ways to Renew Your Registration

Renew Online (Fastest Option)

This is the easiest way for most customers.

  • Available 24/7
  • Immediate confirmation
  • Registration card and stickers are mailed to you

Call to action:
Renew your registration online

 

Renew by Mail

You may renew by mail if your renewal notice allows it.

  • Mail your payment and required documents
  • Processing takes longer than online renewal

Call to action:
Follow the instructions on your renewal notice

 

Renew In Person

Some customers must renew in person.

  • Required if your vehicle has unresolved issues
  • Helpful if you need assistance

Call to action:
Schedule an appointment at an MVA branch office

 

What You Need to Renew

To renew your registration, you must:

  • Have valid Maryland vehicle insurance
  • Have no unresolved vehicle flags
  • Pay the required registration fee

If any of these requirements are not met, your renewal may be denied.

 

Vehicle Insurance Requirements

Maryland law requires continuous vehicle insurance coverage.
Your insurance information must be on file and up to date with the MVA.

If there is an insurance issue, you must resolve it before renewing.

Related link:
Maryland Auto Insurance Requirements

 

Vehicle Flags That May Stop Your Renewal

A vehicle flag is a hold placed on your record that can prevent renewal.
Common reasons for flags include:

  • Insurance lapses
  • Unpaid tolls or citations
  • Emissions inspection issues

You must clear all flags before renewing your registration.

Related link:
Remove a Vehicle Flag

 

Registration Fees

Registration fees are based on:

  • Vehicle type
  • Vehicle weight
  • Registration period

Fees are set by regulation and may change.

Call to action:
View current registration fees

 

What Happens After You Renew

After your renewal is processed:

  • You will receive a new registration card and stickers by mail
  • Place the stickers on your license plate as instructed
  • Keep the registration card in your vehicle

Delivery times may vary.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration early?
Yes. You may renew before your expiration date.

What if my address has changed?
Update your address with the MVA before renewing to ensure delivery.

What if I sold or no longer own the vehicle?
Do not renew. Follow the steps to return plates or update ownership records.

 

Need Help?

If you are unsure why your renewal was denied or how to complete the process, the MVA can help.

Call to action:
Contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration

 

Ready to Renew?

If your registration is due, take the next step now.

Renew your vehicle registration online, resolve any vehicle flags, or contact the MVA for assistance.