Maryland Title Transfer Fees & Vehicle Taxes
When buying or selling a car privately in Maryland, the buyer is responsible for all DMV fees at the time of registration. The total out-of-pocket cost includes the title transfer fee, sales tax, and registration fee.
Maryland Vehicle Transfer Fee Summary
Note: Sales tax and use tax are paid at the DMV during registration — not at the time of the private sale. County-level taxes may apply on top of state rates.
Maryland Additional Notes
- ›Notarized bill of sale required for title transfer
- ›Safety inspection required before registration
- ›Emissions testing required in certain counties
- ›MVA handles title and registration (not DMV)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the title transfer fee in Maryland?▾
The Maryland title transfer fee is $100. This is paid by the buyer at the DMV when completing the transfer, and does not include sales tax or registration fees.
What is the sales tax rate on vehicles in Maryland?▾
Maryland vehicle sales tax: 6% excise tax on the purchase price or fair market value.
Who pays the sales tax in a Maryland private car sale?▾
In Maryland, the buyer pays the vehicle sales tax at registration — not at the time of the sale. The tax is assessed when the buyer visits the DMV to transfer the title and register the vehicle.
Create your Maryland bill of sale for free
Create Bill of Sale — Free →More Maryland guides
- How to Transfer a Car Title in Maryland
- How to Write a Bill of Sale in Maryland
- Maryland Bill of Sale Requirements
- How to Sell a Car Privately in Maryland
- Does Maryland Require Notarization for a Bill of Sale?
- Maryland car bill of sale generator
- Maryland bill of sale (all vehicles)
- Title Transfer Fees & Taxes — all states
- All bill of sale guides