Maryland Car Dealer Fees & Taxes: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about buying a car in Maryland — sales tax, registration, title, doc fees, and more.
Maryland Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6% |
| Registration Fee | $135 |
| Title Fee | $100 |
| Plate Fee | Included in registration |
| Inspection Fee | Not required |
| EV Surcharge | $125/yr |
| Dealer Doc Fee Cap | No state cap (negotiable) |
| Total Base Govt Fees | $235 |
Note: Registration $135-$187 based on vehicle weight. 6% excise tax on purchase price. Safety inspection required for used vehicle transfers.
Understanding Maryland Car Fees
Sales Tax
Maryland charges a 6% state sales tax on vehicle purchases. Local cities and counties may add additional taxes on top of this rate, so your total tax rate could be higher depending on where you buy.
Registration & Title
You will pay $135 for vehicle registration and $100 for a title transfer. Plate fees are included in the registration cost. These fees are paid to the Maryland DMV or motor vehicle division and are non-negotiable.
Dealer Documentation Fee
Maryland does not set a legal cap on dealer documentation (doc) fees. This means dealers can charge whatever they want, and fees of $300-$800+ are common. Always negotiate this fee or ask for it to be waived.
EV Surcharge
Electric vehicle owners in Maryland pay an annual surcharge of $125 to offset lost gas tax revenue. This is charged at registration renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax on a car in Maryland?
The state sales tax rate in Maryland is 6%. Local jurisdictions may add additional taxes. Registration $135-$187 based on vehicle weight. 6% excise tax on purchase price. Safety inspection required for used vehicle transfers.
How much are registration and title fees in Maryland?
Maryland charges $135 for vehicle registration and $100 for a title transfer. Total base government fees (registration + title + plates + inspection) come to $235.
Is there a dealer doc fee cap in Maryland?
Maryland does not cap dealer documentation fees. Doc fees are negotiable, and dealers may charge $200-$800+. Always ask for a breakdown of fees before signing.
Does Maryland charge an EV surcharge?
Yes, Maryland charges an EV registration surcharge of $125 per year. This fee offsets lost fuel tax revenue from electric vehicles.
What is the total out-the-door cost on a $30,000 car in Maryland?
On a $30,000 vehicle in Maryland, expect approximately $1,800 in state sales tax (6%), plus $235 in base government fees (registration, title, plates, inspection). Dealer doc fees are uncapped and negotiable. Use our OTD calculator for a precise estimate including local taxes.
Other State Fee Guides
Fee data sourced from Maryland DMV and state revenue department. Updated for 2026.