Lenders

What Is a Security Interest (Lien)?

A security interest, also called a lien, gives a lender legal rights in a vehicle until the loan is paid in full.

When you record a lien:

• The lien is listed on the vehicle’s title
• The MVA issues a Security Interest Filing (SIF) instead of a paper title to the vehicle owner

The SIF shows that your lien is properly recorded.

How to Place a Lien on a Maryland Vehicle

Follow these steps to record your security interest.

Step 1: Make Sure the Title Application Is Complete

To record a lien, the following must be submitted to the MVA:

• A completed Application for Certificate of Title
• Proper assignment of the title (if transferring ownership)
• Your name and address listed as lienholder
• Required title fees

Make sure your lienholder information is accurate. Errors may delay processing.

Step 2: Submit the Application

The title application may be submitted:

• By the dealer
• By the vehicle owner
• By a licensed tag and title service

Once processed, the MVA will:

• Record the lien
• Issue a Security Interest Filing (SIF) to the lienholder

Important Notes for Lenders

• Maryland is an electronic title state for lien filings when applicable.
• The vehicle owner will not receive a paper title while a lien is active.
• The SIF serves as proof of your recorded security interest.

Keep the SIF in your records.

Requesting a Duplicate Security Interest Filing (SIF)

If your original SIF is lost, damaged, or destroyed, you may request a duplicate.

Only the recorded lienholder may request a duplicate SIF.

Step 1: Complete the Required Form

Submit a written request or required MVA form to request a duplicate Security Interest Filing.

Your request must include:

• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Owner’s name
• Lienholder name
• Lienholder signature (if required)

Step 2: Pay the Required Fee

A duplicate SIF fee applies.

Include payment with your request. Fees are non-refundable.

Step 3: Submit Your Request

Mail your completed request and fee to:

Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
Title File Unit
6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E.
Glen Burnie, MD 21062

If approved, the MVA will issue a duplicate Security Interest Filing.

Releasing a Lien

When the loan is paid in full, you must:

• Properly release the lien in accordance with Maryland law

Failure to release a satisfied lien may result in penalties.

Need Assistance?

If you have questions about:

• Recording a lien
• Electronic lien and title (ELT) processes
• Requesting a duplicate SIF

Contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration for guidance.

Ready to Record a Lien?

Make sure your title application lists your lienholder information correctly and submit it to the MVA to record your security interest.

If you need a duplicate SIF, complete the required request form and submit it with the applicable fee today.