Updated September 15, 2023
A Maryland motor vehicle bill of sale (Form VR-181) documents all details surrounding a private purchase and sale of a vehicle between two (2) or more parties. All vehicles acquired through a private sale will require a notarized bill of sale for registration and titling purposes in the State of Maryland. Once the transaction is completed and the bill of sale is signed, the new owner may register the vehicle under their name through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Office (MVA).
Signing Requirements – Buyer and seller must sign before a notary public.
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Registering a Vehicle
New owners must register their vehicle immediately upon purchase with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Office (MVA); if purchased from an accredited dealership, the dealer will handle titling and registration on behalf of the buyer. New residents wishing to transfer their current vehicle must register it within sixty (60) days of moving to Maryland. Registrations must be renewed once every two years at an MVA branch or online through MVA eStore. To renew through phone, mail, or at a County Treasurer’s Office, view more options here.
Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form VR-197) – Required at the time of sale in order to verify the vehicle’s mileage.
Where to Register
All required documentation must be submitted in person at a nearby Motor Vehicle Administration Office (MVA) branch. Alternatively, titling and registration can be handled at participating MVA licensed tag and title service locations.
Required Documents
- Bill of Sale (Form VR-181);
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form VR-197);
- Completed Application for Certificate of Title (Form VR-005);
- Valid Maryland Driver’s License;
- Security Interest Filing Statement (Form VR-217), if the vehicle has more than one lien;
- Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate from an accredited station;
- Vehicle’s Lease Agreement (if leased);
- Registration Fees;[1]
- Proof of Insurance with the following minimum requirements:[2]
- $30,000 for bodily injury;
- $60,000 for total bodily injury, two or more people;
- $15,000 for property damage;
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney, optional if an agent shall represent the vehicle owner in titling and registering matters.