Complete Guide to Preparing and Signing Your Maryland Vehicle Title

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, legal transfer of vehicle ownership in Maryland.

1. Verify Your Title

Before selling your vehicle in Maryland, ensure that the title is in your name and free of errors. If your title is lost or damaged, request a duplicate title from the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) before proceeding.

2. Sign the Title Correctly

Maryland does not require notarization for private party vehicle sales, but the title must be completed accurately. Fill out the following sections on the front of the title:

       
• Seller’s Signature: Sign your name in the seller section.
• Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as it appears on the title.
• Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old. Enter the mileage at the time of sale.
• Buyer’s Name and Address: Enter the buyer’s full legal name and address.
• Selling Price: Full sale price of the vehicle.
• Date of Sale: Exact date of the sale of the vehicle.

Important: Do not make corrections, use white-out, or cross out mistakes. Errors may require a replacement title.

3. Address Any Liens

In MD, when a lien is released, the lienholder will mail a document called the Security Interest Filing (SIF) to the owner. This document is the official lien release.

4. Multiple Owners

If more than one person is listed on the title:    

       

• “AND” between names: All owners must sign the title.

5. Maryland Bill of Sale

Maryland requires a Bill of Sale (Form VR-181) if:

• The vehicle is less than 7 years old, and
• The sale price is less than the book value, or
• The vehicle is being gifted to a relative.

The Bill of Sale must be notarized in these cases.

Key Takeaways:    

       

• Maryland does not require notarization for most private sales, except for certain Bill of Sale situations.
• Accurate title completion is critical to avoid delays.
• Address any lien releases properly before the sale.
• After the vehicle is sold, the seller will need to return their plates to the MVA

For full details and downloadable forms, visit the official Maryland MVA website.