Return License Plates When Moving out of State

There are a lot of things that you have to do when you relocate to another state.
In addition to change your driver license and get new title and registration of your car, don't forget to check if you need to return license plates and cancel registration when you move out of state.

Each state maintains different requirements regarding license plates. Some mandate that you must return license plates along with a registration cancellation notice. Others require no notification from the registered owner. See this link for state-by-state information.

If you live in a state that does not require surrendering your plates, you're free to keep them as souvenirs. If you don't plan on keeping them, be sure to protect yourself against possible identity theft or criminal involvement by disposing of properly.

Maryland

Maryland law requires you to return your license plates to the MVA when your vehicle's insurance is cancelled, when you move out of Maryland, or when you no longer need the license plates. Under certain circumstances you may be eligible for a partial refund of your registration fee.

More information can be found on this web page.