How duplicate titles and temporary tags work in Maryland.
Dealer-focused reference for Maryland duplicate title requirements, temporary tag rules, and title submission deadlines. Administered by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).
Always confirm current fees and forms at the official state site linked below.
Duplicate title: $20Temp tag: 60 daysDealer title deadline: 30 days
VR-018 (Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title)
Where to file
MVA office, online via myMVA portal, or by mail
Turnaround
Instant online; 1–2 weeks by mail
Notarization required
No
Temp tag duration
60 days
Dealer title deadline
30 days after sale
Temporary tags / permits
Maryland temporary tag rules
Temporary tags in Maryland are valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
Dealer transit plates valid 60 days; temp tags valid up to 60 days
Dealers in Maryland must submit title paperwork within 30 days of the date of sale.
Stacking temporary tags — issuing a second consecutive temp tag to extend a vehicle's operation beyond the initial permit period without resolving the underlying title — is prohibited.
Dealer playbook
Keep a title-pending log sorted by temp tag expiration date. Review it every Monday.
Flag any vehicle where the title has not been applied for within half of the allowed deadline (Maryland's window is 30 days).
Never issue a second temp tag as a workaround for an unresolved title problem — this is prohibited and auditable.
If you receive trade-ins with no title in hand, start the duplicate process immediately rather than waiting for retail sale.
Maryland state quirk
Maryland offers instant duplicate title issuance online for titled owners via the myMVA portal — no office visit required.