GLEN BURNIE, MD (September 30, 2026) – The Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is reminding customers of several new state laws taking effect on October 1 that aim to enhance roadway safety, modernize administrative processes and simplify requirements for Maryland drivers and vehicle owners.
Starting tomorrow, October 1, the MVA will begin issuing official warning notices to Maryland residents who own vehicles registered in another state. Chapter 487/Senate Bill 111, which was signed into law by Governor Wes Moore, is one of a handful of new laws going into effect in Maryland October 1 and is intended to bring improperly registered vehicles into compliance. The notices begin a 60-day period for vehicle owners to properly register their vehicles or provide proof that Maryland registration is not required. No fines will be assessed during this period. The warning period also follows two direct outreach efforts in January and July, where the MVA sent courtesy letters encouraging vehicle owners with possible out-of-state registrations to register their vehicles in Maryland. The MVA has also engaged in continuous outreach through social and traditional media channels.
Vehicle owners who remain out of compliance after the 60-day warning period will be fined $7 per day, up to a maximum of $420 for each improperly registered vehicle. If vehicles are not properly registered after 120 days, the MVA will notify the appropriate local jurisdictions for additional penalties, which may lead to civil action including booting, towing, vehicle impoundment and/or the seizure of out-of-state plates.
“At the MVA, we are committed to being a partner and a resource for our customers. We want to provide Maryland residents the support they need to comply with state law and make that process as easy as possible,” Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer said. “If customers have questions or other concerns that stop them from plating where they live, don’t wait. Reach out to us now. We will help you work through the process of becoming compliant.”
Drivers who are new to Maryland or maintain out-of-state registrations can find resources at mva.maryland.gov/PlateWhereYouLive. Active-duty military service members, spouses, and dependents can receive non-resident permits free-of-charge. Customers who need to register their vehicle in Maryland but have outstanding debt or other financial restrictions are encouraged to contact the MVA for assistance identifying payment options and next steps. Customers can reach the MVA online through ContactMVA or call 410-768-7000 to speak with an agent.
Other Key Initiatives Effective October 1
Improved Accessibility to Ignition Interlock Program (Chapter 81/SB 38): Individuals over the age of 21 who violate an alcohol restriction can participate in the Ignition Interlock System Program in order to modify a license suspension or revocation or receive a restricted license. Previously, this was only available to individuals under age 21. Failure to successfully complete the program would result in a one year license suspension.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Questions (Chapter 539/SB 68): Every driver skills examination will feature at least one question related to motorcycle safety awareness. MVA has increased the variety of potential motorcycle safety questions in its test question pool as a result of the legislative change covering sharing the road with motorcyclists, proper lane positioning, following distance, crash prevention and other topics covered in the Maryland driver’s manual and rookie driver’s manual. MVA developed question options in consultation with safety advocates, who testified in support of the law.
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) System Pilot Program (Chapter 870/HB 107): MVA will establish the ISA System pilot program by October 1, 2027. Individuals with enough points to trigger suspension or revocation of their license under state law are required to enroll in the pilot program. Over the next year, the agency will develop a framework and regulations for the program to support participants in safe operations of vehicles equipped with ISA systems. The law includes strict data protection guardrails, prohibiting the sale of program data and requiring deletion within 30 days. MVA will provide a report on the pilot program to the Governor and General Assembly by December 30, 2030.
Vulnerable Road User Protection Act (Chapter 285/SB 487): Enables and establishes a process for the State Highway Administration and local jurisdictions to install speed cameras to improve safety for vulnerable roadway users on critical corridors. Maryland’s Vulnerable Road User Assessment identifies corridors eligible for automated speed enforcement cameras.
Clear Before You Drive (Chapter 668/HB 474): The MVA is required to assess one point against a violator’s driver’s license if they fail to make reasonable efforts to remove snow and ice from their vehicle. If a violation contributes to an accident the MVA will assess three points against the violator’s license.
Reducing Costs for Credentials (Chapter 116/HB248): Reduces printing costs for identification cards, driver’s licenses and moped operator permits by no longer requiring pictures to be in color. This is expected to save $114,000 in FY 2027 and $152,000 during subsequent years.
