MVA Announces Full-Scale Crackdown on Vehicles Operating Beyond 60-Day Residency Window
Fines of $7 Per Day Up to a Maximum of $420… Mandatory Towing After 120 Days
Maryland state enforcement measures against vehicles operated by residents with out-of-state license plates will be significantly strengthened starting October 1.
The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA) recently sent official notices urging compliance to approximately 79,000 state residents suspected of retaining out-of-state license plates. Under current state law, residents who move to Maryland must officially register their vehicles with the state MVA within 60 days of establishing residency.
According to the new enforcement guidelines taking effect October 1, vehicle owners who remain unregistered after the grace period will receive a formal enforcement notice along with an additional 60-day warning period. If vehicle registration is not completed within this timeframe, a fine of $7 per day will be levied for up to 60 days, totaling up to $420 in penalties.
If the registration obligation is not fulfilled 120 days after notification, the MVA will refer the matter to local jurisdictions and law enforcement authorities. In such cases, strict civil enforcement measures may be executed, including wheel booting, towing, impoundment, and the confiscation of out-of-state license plates.
An MVA official stated, "We are providing guidance services for residents who face difficulties registering their vehicles due to existing debt or financial hardships," and urged motorists to explore available relief options, such as payment plans, through prior consultation.
Vehicle registration procedures and related details can be found on the official MVA website.