A Maryland motor vehicle bill of sale is a form that is completed during the purchasing of a vehicle to provide the identity of both seller and buyer and to serve as proof of the transaction between the parties. A completed bill of sale will need to identify the agreed-upon purchase price and include the signature of all parties involved. The signatures must be notarized if the vehicle is less than seven (7) years old, the purchase price is at least $500 less than the fair market value (FMV), or the buyer wants to base the excise tax on the sale price rather than the blue book price (FMV). In Maryland, a bill of sale is a necessary component of the vehicle registration process.

Maryland Vehicle Registration/Titling

The vehicle registration and titling process in Maryland can be carried out at the nearest Motor Vehicle Administration location. The buyer will need to complete the following before they can use their vehicle:

1. Have the vehicle inspected by the nearest inspection station (if the seller doesn’t already have the inspection certificate).
2. Locate the nearest MVA location and prepare the following documents:
   • Vehicle’s current title reassigned to the new owner;
   • Completed Application for Certificate of Title (if the current title was issued in the state, it can be used as the application form (providing the Application for Title and Registration section is completed);
   • Proof of meeting Maryland’s insurance requirements (can be included in the title application);
   • Completed Bill of Sale (notarized if necessary);
   • Completed Odometer Disclosure Statement (can be included in Maryland title as well);
   • Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate.
3. Submit the documents and pay requisite taxes and fees.

The new owner can expect the title in the mail. They’ll be able to access their registration card, plates, and expiration stickers at the MVA office if they applied in person.