Maryland residents who live in the state but keep their vehicles registered elsewhere are being warned about tougher enforcement measures coming into effect on October 1.
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) said state law requires residents to register their vehicles in Maryland within 60 days of establishing residency.
As part of an awareness campaign, the agency sent about 79,000 courtesy letters in late July to residents identified as having vehicles carrying out-of-state licence plates.
From October 1, residents whose vehicles remain registered outside Maryland could receive an official notice stating that an enforcement case has been opened against them. They will then have 60 days to complete the required Maryland registration.
Failure to comply within that period could result in a fine of $7 per day, with the penalty capped at $420 for each vehicle.
The consequences could become more serious if the vehicle remains improperly registered beyond 120 days. The MVA may refer such cases to local authorities, potentially leading to measures including vehicle booting, towing, impoundment or removal of the out-of-state plates.
“In addition to our extensive outreach to customers, we are working alongside law enforcement and local government partners to ensure Maryland residents understand the law and assist customers who need to come into compliance,” Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer said.
The enforcement drive forms part of the MVA’s “Plate Where You Live” campaign, introduced earlier this summer to remind residents of their obligations and explain the new measures.
The agency is urging affected vehicle owners to take steps to register their cars in Maryland before the new enforcement process begins.
