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Sep 16, 2022

As a car owner, you have a responsibility to keep your vehicle legally registered in the state of Maryland. After you purchase your new vehicle at a Kia dealer, your first stop should be at the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles to apply for car registration. Let’s explore what fees you can expect for registering your new car.Cars Lined Up at Car Dealership

What is the Cost of Car Registration?

In Maryland, the fee to register a passenger vehicle is $135 or $187. The difference in these fees is determined by the shipping weight of the vehicle. Smaller passenger cars, which can weigh up to 3,700 pounds, have a smaller registration fee than larger passenger vehicles that weigh over 3,700 pounds.

For passenger vehicles that are operated for hire, you can expect a larger fee – the vehicle registration fee is up to $334. Additionally, there is a surcharge in Maryland for the EMS system that is bundled into your registration fees. The $17 surcharge is used to fund statewide emergency medical services, such as ambulances.

How Often Do You Renew Your Registration?

You will need to renew your registration for your vehicle every two years. The two-year renewal is compulsory, which means that you must have your vehicle renewed to legally drive on Maryland roads. When it’s time for your vehicle registration, the Department of Motor Vehicles may send you a letter as a reminder.

How Do You Renew Your Registration?

There are a few ways you can renew your registration. Many people prefer to go in person to handle registration, particularly if you are registering a new vehicle or transferring a title.

However, you have the option of renewing your vehicle registration online and paying your registration fee with a credit card. Online renewal may be more convenient for some drivers, especially if there are no major changes in the ownership or use of the vehicle. For example, if you have not started using your vehicle for rideshare business, you will not need to update the type of registration you are renewing.

Ask Your Kia Dealer: What Other Fees Do You Need to Know About?

Depending on your specific situation, you may want to consider other fees for your vehicle registration. For example, if you want a duplicate registration card or sticker, you will need to pay $5. Certain permits, such as a non-resident permit for drivers who frequently drive in Maryland but do not live in the state, will cost $27. Additionally, if you have vanity plates, you will need to renew your vanity plate registration every year for $50.

Vehicle registration is one of the fees that are associated with car ownership. In Maryland, your registration must be renewed every two years. Most drivers will need to pay a registration fee between $135 and $187, unless you are using your car as a rideshare driver.

Want to Buy a Kia in Maryland?

Get in touch with DARCARS Kia of Temple Hills to find your new Kia SUV or car and to learn more about what you can expect for your vehicle registration process. Be sure to check out more of our tips for driving in Maryland on our blog.