Transferring a Car After Someone Dies in Maryland
How to transfer a vehicle title after the owner dies in Maryland, from the official motor vehicle agency.
Short answer: A surviving joint owner applies for a new title before the registration expires, completing the assignment on the back of the title and bringing a certified death certificate (or MVA letter) and the registration card. Maryland MVA, Handling a loved one's vehicle and ID after death
| Transferring a car after death | A surviving joint owner applies for a new title before the registration expires, completing the assignment on the back of the title and bringing a certified death certificate (or MVA letter) and the registration card. If an estate is opened, the MVA requires the original letters of administration with the Register of Wills' raised seal; the personal representative, heir or legatee completes the assignment on the title. For a vehicle owned only by the deceased, confirm documents with the Register of Wills first. Form VR-481 may be used for transfers to a surviving spouse (up to two vehicles). No excise tax is due on a transfer to a surviving spouse, joint owner, legal heir, legatee or distributee. |
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More Maryland estate law
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- Who Inherits If You Die Without a Will in Maryland
- How to Make a Valid Will in Maryland
- How Probate Works in Maryland
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- Executor Duties in Maryland
- Letters Testamentary in Maryland
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- All Maryland wills, probate and estate rules
FAQ
How do I transfer a car title after someone dies in Maryland?
A surviving joint owner applies for a new title before the registration expires, completing the assignment on the back of the title and bringing a certified death certificate (or MVA letter) and the registration card. If an estate is opened, the MVA requires the original letters of administration with the Register of Wills' raised seal; the personal representative, heir or legatee completes the assignment on the title. For a vehicle owned only by the deceased, confirm documents with the Register of Wills first. Form VR-481 may be used for transfers to a surviving spouse (up to two vehicles). No excise tax is due on a transfer to a surviving spouse, joint owner, legal heir, legatee or distributee.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.