Maryland Vehicle
Tax Services & Filing.
Maryland's 6% excise tax catches most buyers off guard. We calculate it correctly, apply every credit and exemption you qualify for, and file it right with your title.
How much will you owe in Maryland excise tax?
Enter your vehicle's sale price and trade-in value (if any) to get an instant estimate. Select an exemption if it applies.
Maryland Excise Tax Estimator
Based on Maryland's 6% rate. Estimate only — actual MVA assessment may vary.
Every vehicle tax situation covered
New purchase excise tax
Maryland charges 6% excise tax on vehicle purchases. The tax base is the higher of the sale price or NADA Clean Retail value. We calculate it correctly and file it with your title.
Trade-in credit
If you trade in a vehicle, Maryland reduces your excise tax base by the trade-in value. Missing this credit means overpaying — we ensure it's applied every time.
Gift & family exemptions
Vehicles gifted between qualifying family members (spouse, parent, child, sibling) may be exempt from excise tax entirely. We file the correct affidavit to claim your exemption.
Military & veteran exemption
Active duty military and qualifying veterans may be eligible for reduced or waived excise tax on vehicle purchases. We handle the documentation and MVA filing.
Inheritance exemption
Vehicles transferred through an estate may qualify for an excise tax exemption. We navigate the probate paperwork so you're not overpaying on an inherited vehicle.
Commercial: IFTA & IRP
Interstate commercial vehicle operators need quarterly IFTA fuel tax filings and IRP apportioned registration. We provide expert support for Maryland-based operators.
Maryland vehicle tax questions
What is Maryland's vehicle excise tax rate?
Maryland charges 6% excise tax on vehicle purchases. The tax base is the higher of the actual sale price or the NADA Clean Retail value. For example, if you paid $12,000 but NADA values the car at $14,000, tax is calculated on $14,000.
How does the trade-in credit work?
If you trade in a vehicle when purchasing, Maryland reduces the excise tax base by the trade-in's value. So if your new car costs $20,000 and you trade in a $8,000 vehicle, excise tax is calculated on $12,000. This must be documented and filed correctly.
Are there vehicles that qualify for a flat rate instead of 6%?
Yes — antique, historic, and qualifying classic vehicles may be assessed at a flat rate or different valuation schedule. Electric vehicles may also have different incentives. We'll confirm the correct classification for your vehicle.
Do I pay excise tax if someone gifts me a car?
Qualifying family member gifts (spouse, child, parent, sibling, grandparent, grandchild) are exempt from Maryland excise tax. You'll need to file a notarized gift affidavit — which we prepare for you.
What if I think the MVA overvalued my vehicle?
You can dispute the assessed value if you have documentation showing the vehicle's actual condition or a lower legitimate sale price. We can help you prepare the appeal documentation.
Completing a title transfer alongside your tax filing? See our title transfer page — we handle both in one visit.
Don't overpay Maryland vehicle tax. Let us file it right.
Book an appointment and bring your vehicle paperwork. We'll ensure every credit and exemption is applied before we submit.