Overseas Vehicles

This page explains how to get a Maryland Certificate of Title for a vehicle that was manufactured for sale or use outside the United States (an overseas vehicle).

Some overseas vehicles do not meet U.S. or Maryland requirements when they are brought into the country. These vehicles require additional documentation before the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) can issue a title or registration.

Step 1: Confirm Your Vehicle Is an Overseas Vehicle

A vehicle is considered an overseas vehicle if it:

• Was manufactured for sale outside the United States
• Was imported into the U.S. after purchase or ownership overseas

Overseas vehicles are often subject to federal import and safety rules.

Step 2: Understand Compliance Requirements

Overseas vehicles must meet:

• Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements
• Maryland safety and emissions requirements, if applicable

If the vehicle does not meet these standards, it is considered nonconforming and cannot be titled or registered until it is brought into compliance.

Step 3: Confirm Who Is Responsible for Titling

• If the vehicle was purchased from a dealer, the dealer may submit the title application.
• If the vehicle was imported or purchased privately, you are responsible for titling the vehicle.

Submit only one application to avoid delays.

Step 4: Choose How to Apply for a Title

Option 1: Apply In Person (Recommended)

Visit a full-service MVA branch office.

• Staff can review import and compliance documents
• Recommended for overseas vehicles

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

Option 2: Apply by Mail

Some applications may be submitted by mail.

• Processing may take longer
• All documents must be complete

Call to action:
Download the title application and mailing instructions

Step 5: Gather the Required Documents

You must submit:

• A completed Application for Certificate of Title
• Proof of ownership
• US DOT Declaration
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection import documentation
• Compliance documents showing the vehicle meets FMVSS and EPA requirements
• Valid identification
• Payment for all required fees and taxes
• Additional information may be required.

Do not alter official documents. Missing paperwork may delay processing.

Step 6: Bring the Vehicle Into Compliance (If Needed)

If the vehicle is nonconforming, you may need to:

• Modify the vehicle to meet FMVSS or EPA standards
• Provide certification from a registered importer or manufacturer
• Complete required Maryland inspections

If the vehicle cannot be brought into compliance, the MVA cannot issue a title or registration.

Titling and Registering the Vehicle

Once all requirements are met:

• You may be able to title and register the vehicle at the same time
• Proof of insurance is required before registration

For registration details, visit:
Vehicle Registration Information

Fees

Fees may include:

• Title fee
• Motor vehicle excise tax
• Registration fees
• Inspection or modification costs

Current fees are listed on MVA service pages.

What Happens After You Apply

After approval:

• Your Maryland Certificate of Title will be mailed to you
• Processing times vary due to document review
• You can track the status online

Call to action:
Check the status of your title application

Need Help?

If you are importing or titling an overseas vehicle and are unsure what documents you need, contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.

Call to action:
Contact the MVA for assistance