Maryland lawmakers are considering a new measure aimed at cracking down on residents who live in the state but keep their vehicles registered elsewhere. Senate Bill 111, introduced by Sen. McCray, lays out a formal process for identifying improperly registered vehicles, notifying owners, and enforcing compliance with Maryland’s registration laws. If the owner fails to properly register the vehicle, a civil fine of $7 per day is assessed for up to 60 days until the vehicle is properly registered.
The bill is scheduled to take effect October 1, 2026, if passed.
Why This Bill Exists
Maryland law already requires residents to register their vehicles with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). However, some residents avoid Maryland registration—often to sidestep insurance requirements, emissions rules, or higher fees—by keeping plates from another state.
SB 111 creates a structured enforcement system to address that problem.
Key Provisions of the Bill
1. A New Warning System for Suspected Improper Registration
If the MVA has probable cause to believe a Maryland resident is driving a vehicle registered in another state, the agency must issue a formal warning.
The warning gives the vehicle owner 60 days to do one of two things:
- Register the vehicle properly in Maryland, and display Maryland plates, or
- Provide acceptable proof that the vehicle is not required to be registered in Maryland.
2. Nonresident Permits for Legitimate Exceptions
If the owner proves the vehicle is legitimately registered elsewhere—for example, if they are a temporary resident—the MVA may require the owner to obtain and display a nonresident permit.
3. Daily Civil Fines for Noncompliance
If the owner does not respond within 60 days:
- The MVA must begin assessing a $7-per-day civil fine,
- For up to 60 days,
- Or until the owner complies or proves the vehicle is exempt.
This creates a maximum potential fine of $420.
4. Escalation After 120 Days
If 120 days pass after the initial warning and the owner still has not complied:
- The MVA must notify the appropriate local jurisdiction.
- The county State’s Attorney may file a civil action in rem—a case against the vehicle itself.
5. Possible Immobilization or Impoundment
In that civil action, prosecutors may seek:
- Towing and impoundment,
- Removal of the vehicle, or
- Booting (immobilization).
This gives local authorities a clear legal pathway to physically prevent continued use of the improperly registered vehicle.
What the Bill Does Not Do
- It does not change the underlying rules about who must register a vehicle in Maryland.
- It does not impose criminal penalties; all enforcement is civil.
- It does not target new residents, who already have a 60‑day grace period under existing law.
When It Would Take Effect
If enacted, SB 111 would become law on October 1, 2026.
Ronald Pittore, Reporter
