No, it is not illegal to have Virginia tags in Maryland as long as the vehicle is properly registered in Virginia and the driver adheres to residency and registration laws. However, issues arise if a Maryland resident fails to register their vehicle in Maryland within the required timeframe after establishing residency.
Understanding Residency and Vehicle Registration Laws
Vehicle registration laws are state-specific and are closely tied to residency requirements. While you can legally drive a vehicle with Virginia plates in Maryland, you must ensure compliance with Maryland’s rules if you become a resident of the state.
1. Driving with Out-of-State Plates in Maryland
Short-Term Visits
If you are visiting Maryland temporarily, such as for work, school, or leisure, you can legally drive a vehicle with Virginia tags without any issues. This applies to non-residents who:
- Are students attending Maryland institutions but maintain permanent residency in Virginia.
- Are workers commuting from Virginia but living elsewhere temporarily.
- Are tourists or business travelers.
Military Personnel
Active-duty military personnel stationed in Maryland can retain their Virginia registration under the Service Members Civil Relief Act (SCRA), provided they do not change their state of legal residence.
2. Registration Requirements for Maryland Residents
Maryland law requires new residents to register their vehicles within 60 days of establishing residency. Residency can be established by:
- Renting or buying a home in Maryland.
- Obtaining a Maryland driver’s license.
- Being employed in Maryland while living in the state.
Failure to register your vehicle in Maryland after becoming a resident can lead to fines, penalties, or even legal action.
Dual-State Residency
If you own property in both Maryland and Virginia, you must register your vehicle in the state where it is primarily garaged or operated. Maintaining Virginia tags while living primarily in Maryland may violate Maryland law.
3. Penalties for Improper Registration
Driving a vehicle with out-of-state tags as a Maryland resident can result in:
- Fines: Maryland imposes fines ranging from $70 to $1,000 for failure to register a vehicle within the required timeframe.
- Vehicle Towing or Impoundment: Law enforcement may impound vehicles with out-of-state plates that are illegally operating in Maryland.
- Back Taxes and Fees: Maryland may require payment of back taxes and registration fees for the period the vehicle was used in the state without proper registration.
4. Why Maryland Enforces Registration Laws
Maryland enforces registration laws to ensure compliance with state tax and safety standards. Key reasons include:
- Excise Taxes: Vehicle excise taxes collected during registration fund state infrastructure projects. Residents avoiding registration deprive the state of revenue.
- Insurance Compliance: Vehicles registered in Maryland must meet state-specific insurance requirements, which may differ from Virginia’s standards.
- Safety Inspections: Maryland requires safety inspections during the initial registration process to ensure vehicles meet state standards.
5. How to Transition from Virginia to Maryland Tags
If you are moving from Virginia to Maryland, follow these steps to ensure compliance:
- Obtain a Maryland Driver’s License: This is often the first step in establishing residency.
- Complete a Vehicle Safety Inspection: Maryland requires an inspection certificate from a licensed inspection station before registering your vehicle.
- Register Your Vehicle: Visit the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA) with proof of insurance, title, and residency documents.
- Pay Registration Fees: Fees vary depending on the vehicle’s weight and age.
Recent Legal Updates (2023-2024)
1. Enhanced Enforcement
Maryland law enforcement has increased efforts to identify vehicles with out-of-state plates being operated illegally by Maryland residents. License plate reader (LPR) technology is now commonly used in these efforts.
2. Streamlined Registration
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has introduced online tools to simplify the registration process for new residents, including step-by-step guides and electronic submission of documents.
3. Reciprocity Agreements
Maryland and Virginia continue to cooperate on issues related to dual-state vehicle use, including streamlined registration for commuters who live in one state and work in another.
FAQs About Virginia Tags in Maryland
Q1. Is it illegal to drive with Virginia plates in Maryland?
Ans: No, it is legal if the vehicle is registered in Virginia and the driver is a Virginia resident or a short-term visitor in Maryland.
Q2. How long can I drive with Virginia tags in Maryland after moving?
Ans: You must register your vehicle in Maryland within 60 days of becoming a Maryland resident.
Q3. Can Maryland residents keep Virginia plates?
Ans: No, Maryland residents must register their vehicles in Maryland, even if they previously had Virginia plates.
Q4. What happens if I don’t register my vehicle in Maryland?
Ans: You may face fines, back taxes, and potential vehicle impoundment for failing to comply with registration laws.
Q5. Do military personnel need to switch to Maryland plates?
Ans: No, active-duty military personnel stationed in Maryland can maintain their out-of-state registration under the Service Members Civil Relief Act.
