Maryland
In Maryland, residents can personalize license plates for various vehicle types, including passenger vehicles, motorcycles, multi-purpose vehicles, and certain trucks and trailers. Personalized plates allow for a combination of letters, numbers, and spaces, subject to specific character limits and guidelines.
How to Get a Personalized Maryland Plate
- Check Plate Availability: Before applying, verify if your desired plate combination is available using the Maryland MVA's Personalized Plate Application tool.
- Apply Online, In Person, or by Mail:
- Online: Use the Personalized Plate Applicationto select your plate design, enter your desired combination, and complete the application process.
- In Person: Visit a local MVA full-service branch office to apply for a personalized plate.
- By Mail: Complete the Application for Special Registration Plates (Form VR-164)and submit it, along with a copy of your current registration card, to the address listed on the form.
- Await Approval: The MVA will review your application to ensure the requested plate combination adheres to state guidelines. Please allow approximately 4 to 6 weeks for processing.
- Receive Your Plate: Once approved and processed, your personalized plate will be mailed to you or your local MVA branch office. You will be notified when your plates are ready for pickup.
Important Notes for Maryland Residents
- Character Limits:
- Standard Plates: Up to 7 characters for most vehicle types.
- Motorcycle and Disability Plates: Up to 6 characters.
- Prohibited Content: Plates must not contain offensive or inappropriate language. The MVA reserves the right to deny any combination deemed offensive to good taste and decency.
- No Punctuation: Punctuation marks or special characters are not permitted. Spaces are allowed and count as characters.
- Plate Ownership: Personalized plates are generally tied to the vehicle owner, not the vehicle itself.
- Renewal: Personalized plates must be renewed annually, along with your vehicle registration.
Fees:
| State | Initial Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $50 | $50 |
These fees are in addition to standard vehicle registration fees.
Maryland MVA - Personalized Plates