Whether you’ve just purchased a vehicle from a private seller, moved to the state, or need to get your car inspected, you’ll likely need a Maryland temporary license plate. This allows you to legally drive your vehicle for a limited time before completing the permanent registration process.
This guide will walk you through exactly how to get a 30-day temporary tag from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), explain who qualifies for 60-day tags, and answer your most common questions.
What is a Maryland Temporary Tag?
A temporary tag is an official, short-term license plate that allows you to legally drive your vehicle for specific purposes, such as:
- Driving to and from an MVA-authorized inspection station.
- Driving to a repair facility to fix issues needed to pass the safety inspection.
- Driving the vehicle while you gather the necessary paperwork for permanent registration.
There are two main types of temporary tags in Maryland:
- 30-Day Temporary Tags: Issued to most individuals for vehicles that need to undergo a Maryland Safety Inspection.
- 60-Day Temporary Tags: Primarily issued by licensed Maryland dealers for vehicles they sell.
How to Get a 30-Day Temporary Tag (For Private Sales & New Residents)
This is the most common tag needed if you bought a car from a private individual or if you are a new Maryland resident needing to get your out-of-state vehicle inspected.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
To get your 30-day temporary tag, you will need the following items. It’s best to have everything ready before you visit the MVA.
- Completed Application: Fill out the Temporary Inspection Waiver (Form VR-129).
- Proof of Ownership: This can be one of the following:
- The vehicle’s title, signed over to you.
- A bill of sale signed by both you and the seller.
- Valid Driver’s License: Your current, valid driver’s license.
- Proof of Maryland Insurance: Your insurance card or policy must meet Maryland’s minimum liability requirements.
- Payment for Fees: A payment of $20 for the temporary registration fee.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
You have two options to apply for the temporary tag:
- In-Person (Fastest Option): Schedule an appointment and visit a full-service MVA branch. If all your documents are in order, you can receive your temporary tag the same day, often within an hour.
- By Mail: Mail all the required documents and a check or money order for the $20 fee to the MVA’s mail-in title unit:MVA Mail-in Title Unit 6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E. Glen Burnie, MD 21062
Important: This 30-day tag is for the sole purpose of getting your vehicle inspected. You must complete the full registration process before it expires.
What Happens After You Get the 30-Day Tag?
With your temporary tag, your next steps are:
- Get a Maryland Safety Inspection: Take your vehicle to a licensed inspection station. The station will electronically transmit the inspection certificate to the MVA upon passing.
- Complete Permanent Registration: Before your 30-day tag expires, visit an MVA branch with the original inspection certificate (if provided) and all other required documents to title and register the vehicle.
- Pay All Fees: At this time, you will pay the title fee, excise tax (sales tax), and your permanent registration fee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, the Maryland MVA does not issue extensions for 30-day temporary tags. If you fail to have the vehicle inspected and registered within the 30-day period, you may need to have the vehicle towed for any further service or inspections.
The fee for the 30-day temporary tag itself is $20. However, this does not include the much larger costs of titling and permanent registration (including 6% excise tax), which you will pay later when you complete the full registration process.
Generally, only licensed Maryland dealers can issue 60-day temporary tags. These are typically provided when you purchase a vehicle from a dealership that has already passed its Maryland Safety Inspection. Individuals cannot apply for 60-day tags.
Yes. The entire purpose of the 30-day temporary tag (using Form VR-129) is to give you a legal way to drive your vehicle to get the required safety inspection.
Yes. If you are an active-duty military member whose home of record is Maryland but are stationed out-of-state, you may be eligible for an inspection waiver. You must complete an Address Certification Form (VR-102) signed by your commanding officer when you apply for your Maryland title.
Conclusion
Securing a 30-day temporary tag is the essential first step to registering your vehicle in Maryland. Be prepared with the correct documents, especially Form VR-129, and apply at your nearest MVA. Most importantly, use the 30-day period wisely to pass the safety inspection, as extensions are not granted. Acting promptly is the key to a smooth and successful registration process.
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