Private Party Purchase

This page explains how to get a Maryland Certificate of Title when you buy a vehicle from a private seller (not a dealer).

Unlike dealer purchases, private sellers do not submit title paperwork for you. You are responsible for completing the titling process with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).

Step 1: Make Sure the Vehicle Can Be Titled

Before applying for a title:

• The seller must give you the original title, properly assigned to you
• All required sections of the title must be completed correctly
• Any liens listed on the title must be released

If the title is missing, altered, or incomplete, the MVA may not be able to process your application.

Step 2: Choose How to Title the Vehicle

You can title a vehicle using one of the options below.

Option 1: Title the Vehicle In Person

Visit a full-service MVA branch office.

• MVA staff can review your documents during your visit
• This option helps reduce delays caused by missing or incorrect paperwork

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

Option 2: Title the Vehicle by Mail

You may submit your application and documents by mail.

• Processing may take longer than in-person service
• All required forms, documents, and fees must be included

Call to action:
Download the title application and mailing instructions

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

To title a vehicle purchased from a private seller, you must submit:

• The completed Application for Certificate of Title
• The properly assigned original title
• Proof of purchase price, and a bill of sale if applicable
• Odometer disclosure agreement, if applicable
• Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate
• Valid identification
• Lien release, if a lien was listed on the title
• Payment for all required taxes and fees

Do not change or alter official documents. Errors or missing information may delay processing.

Titling and Registering the Vehicle

In many cases, you can title and register your vehicle at the same time.

• Registration allows you to legally drive the vehicle in Maryland
• Some situations may require titling first and registering later

For registration requirements, license plates, and insurance rules, visit:
Vehicle Registration Information

Vehicles Purchased Outside Maryland

If you bought the vehicle from a private seller outside Maryland, additional steps may be required.

• Out-of-state titles must meet Maryland standards
• The vehicle may need to pass Maryland safety or emissions inspections before registration

Even if the sale took place in another state, Maryland titling laws apply.

Fees

Fees depend on the vehicle and transaction type and may include:

• Title fee
• Motor vehicle excise tax
• Lien recording fee, if applicable

Current fees are listed on the related MVA service pages.

What Happens After You Apply

After your application is approved:

• Your Maryland Certificate of Title will be mailed to you
• Processing times vary based on application volume and accuracy
• You can check the status of your title online

Call to action:
Check the status of your title application

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive the vehicle before it is titled?
You must meet Maryland registration and insurance requirements before driving.

What if the seller made a mistake on the title?
Incorrect titles may require correction before the MVA can process your application.

How long does it take to receive my title?
Processing times vary and may be longer if documents are incomplete.

Need Help?

If you have questions or need help with your specific situation, contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.

• Official contact information is available through MVA service channels

Call to action:
Contact the MVA for assistance

Ready to Get Started?

If you purchased a vehicle from a private seller, gather your documents and choose how you want to apply.

Schedule an appointment, download the application, or check your title status today.