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MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration

Nonresident Vehicle Permits

If you are visiting or staying in Maryland and plan to keep your out-of-state vehicle in the state for 30 days or longer, you may need a nonresident permit.

What is a nonresident permit?

A nonresident permit is a temporary permit issued by the MVA.

It allows you to legally keep and operate your vehicle in Maryland without registering it in Maryland, as long as you meet all eligibility requirements.

This permit does not replace vehicle registration. Your vehicle must remain properly registered in your home state.

Who needs a nonresident permit?

You may need a nonresident permit if:

  • Your vehicle is registered in another state, and
  • The vehicle will be kept in Maryland for 30 consecutive days or more, and
  • You do not qualify to register the vehicle in Maryland

This commonly applies to:

  • Students attending school in Maryland
  • Military personnel (including their spouses and depednents) stationed in Maryland, although not required
  • Temporary workers or visitors staying for an extended period

When to title & register your vehicle in Maryland

If you become a Maryland resident, you must title and register your vehicle in Maryland. Learn more about steps to take if you are a new Maryland resident.

Ways to get a nonresident permit

Apply in person

If you have questions or unique circumstances, visit a full-service MVA branch office to apply in person. MVA staff can review your documents during your appointment.

Schedule an appointment at an MVA branch office

Apply by mail

Some customers may apply by mail. Processing may take longer than applying in person. Be sure to include all required documents and fees with your application.

Nonresident Permit (VR-111)

What you need to apply 

  • A completed nonresident permit application - VR-111 - PDF - 113.35 KB
  • Proof of current out-of-state vehicle registration
  • Proof of insurance that meets Maryland requirements
  • Valid out-of-state driver's license/identification
  • Other documents as applicable to your situation (school, military, employment)
  • Payment of the required fee
    • No fee for eligible military service members, their spouses, and dependents.

Do not submit altered or incomplete documents. Doing so may delay processing.

Fees

A nonresident permit fee applies. Fees are set by regulation and are subject to change.

Military service members, their spouses, and dependents with valid documentation receive the non-resident permit at no cost. 

General fee CTA (links to main fee page)

What to expect after you apply

Once your application is approved, your permit will be mailed to you. Processing times may vary.

Order status

Directions for displaying the permit

The permit should be on your vehicle for the duration of your time in Maryland. It should be displayed as instructed by the MVA. Failure to properly display the permit may result in enforcement action.

Frequently asked questions

Does a nonresident permit replace registration?

No. Your vehicle must remain registered in your home state.

What if I move to Maryland?

If you become a Maryland resident, you must title and register your vehicle in Maryland. More information can be found on the Plate Where You Live page.

Is the permit transferable?

No. The permit is issued for a specific vehicle and individual. If you need more permits for other vehicles in your household, you'll apply for those vehicles separately.

Questions? We can help.

Contact us if you have questions or need more information.

Contact MVA