Govind Tekale
Maryland drivers face another increase in vehicle registration fees starting July 1, 2025, marking the second price hike in two years for the state’s motorists.
For cars weighing 3,500 pounds or less, the annual fee will climb to $120.50, up from $110.50 set just last year. Owners of heavier vehicles over 3,700 pounds will see a steeper $30 increase, bringing their yearly cost to $191.50.
These increases follow last year’s dramatic hike, which raised fees by about 60% – the first increase since 2004. Before 2024, Maryland drivers paid roughly $135 for a two-year registration for standard vehicles. That jumped to $221 in 2024, and will now rise even higher.
“This fee structure is required by state law and supports services that save lives every day,” said Chrissy Nizer, who heads the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.
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The money funds emergency medical services, trauma care, and medevac helicopters through a $40 surcharge included in the registration fees. It also addresses shortfalls in the Transportation Trust Fund, which pays for road repairs, bridge maintenance, and public transit projects.
For many families, these back-to-back increases create real financial pressure. A household with two cars could now pay over $100 more annually compared to pre-2024 rates. Small businesses with vehicle fleets face even greater costs.
“Drivers are being nickel-and-dimed with back-to-back increases,” said Del. April Miller, a Frederick County Republican. “It’s placing a real burden on working families, especially those with larger or older vehicles.”
Beyond basic registration fees, other vehicle-related costs have also risen. Title fees now cost $200 for most vehicles, up from previous rates. The state has also changed how it classifies historic vehicles – now only cars from 1999 or earlier qualify, forcing owners of 2000-2005 models to pay higher standard registration fees and undergo emissions testing.
Electric vehicle owners aren’t spared either, facing a $250 biennial surcharge, while plug-in hybrid owners pay an extra $200 every two years. These fees aim to make up for lost gas tax revenue as more drivers switch to fuel-efficient or electric vehicles.
How do Maryland’s new fees compare with neighboring states? In Virginia, passenger vehicle registration costs $30.75 to $35.75 annually depending on weight. Pennsylvania charges $42 yearly for standard passenger vehicles, while Delaware’s fees run $40 annually. West Virginia charges $51.50 per year for most passenger vehicles.
These comparisons show Maryland’s rates are now substantially higher than those of surrounding states, potentially creating an additional burden for residents in border communities.
“Motorists continue to bear the brunt of these cost increases,” said AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesperson Ragina Ali. “It’s critical that the state ensures this revenue is used transparently and efficiently.”
The MVA offers some flexibility with one-year or two-year renewal options. Drivers can check their specific fees through their myMVA online account. The agency notes that if a registration expires before July 2025 but is renewed after the fee increase takes effect, the older rates still apply. However, if a registration has expired for over six months, the new rates will apply regardless of the original expiration date. For the complete fee schedule and renewal options, drivers can visit the MVA website or contact their local MVA office for assistance.
