Titles & Registration for Leased Fleet Vehicles

In most cases, a Maryland dealer handles the title when a leasing company buys a vehicle.

If the vehicle is purchased from an out-of-state dealer, the leasing company may need to submit the title paperwork itself.

Ways to submit title applications

If you need to submit the title paperwork yourself, you can apply:

• In person at any MVA full-service branch office
• By mail to the MVA Mail-In Title Unit (Glen Burnie)
• Through an MVA-licensed tag and title service

Documents needed for title applications

To apply for a title, you'll need:

• Application for Certificate of Title (VR-005) - PDF - 191.17 KB
• Certificate of origin (from the manufacturer)
• Bill of sale
• Odometer disclosure statement
• Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate (required for used vehicles only)
• Payment for applicable fees and taxes
• If you want the title mailed to an out-of-state address, a signed letter requesting the correct mailing address

Additional documents

In some cases, you may need to provide extra information or fill out additional forms. 

• Lien information — If the vehicle was financed, record lien information on the title application. Use the Security Interest Filing (SIF) form if placing a second lien.
• Power of Attorney — Required if someone other than the leasing company’s owner, partner, or corporate officer signs the forms
• Certification for Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle — Required if you want the vehicle titled as Class M (multipurpose) and it is not on the approved list

Business requirement

All businesses titling a vehicle must show proof of legal existence.

The business will be issued a number beginning with “Z” for identification.

Safety inspections for used vehicles

If the vehicle is used, a Maryland Safety Inspection is required.

• If inspected by a Maryland dealer: valid for 6 months or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first
• If inspected at another authorized station: valid for 90 days from the inspection date

Completing the Application for Certificate of Title 

A Maryland address must appear on a Maryland title.

If your leasing company is out of state

1. List the Maryland lessee as co-owner, preceded by “c/o” (in care of)
2. Enter the lessee’s Maryland address in the address field

This shows the lessee does not own the vehicle

If your leasing company has a Maryland address

You may:

• Follow the same method as above, or
• List only your company’s name and Maryland address

If you are also registering the vehicle

Include insurance information that meets Maryland minimum requirements.

Registering leased vehicles

If you also plan to register the vehicle, additional forms may be required.

Registration requirements depend on the vehicle type and use. Any insurance compliance penalties must be resolved before permanent registration can be issued

Receiving the title & registration

The title will be mailed to you, no matter how you apply.

If you register in person, you may receive your registration card, license plates, and stickers during your visit.

If register by mail, these items will be mailed to you.

Fees

Titling fees usually include:

• Title fee
• Excise tax (if not exempt)
• Lien filing fee (if applicable)

Registration fees vary by:

• Vehicle type
• Vehicle weight
• Intended use