Maryland Motorcycle & Moped Registration Fees

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The Maryland registration fee for motorcycles and mopeds depends on your vehicle type and a few key details. If you’ve ever been confused by the difference between a motorcycle and a moped in Maryland’s eyes, you’re not alone, the state treats them differently, and that affects the cost.

As of 2026, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) sets base fees for both, but additional factors like engine size or weight can change the total. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.

Quick Answer

The Maryland registration fee for motorcycles is $103 for a 2-year registration. Mopeds cost $51 for the same period. Fees include a $5 title fee.

Late registrations add a $25 penalty.

How Maryland Classifies Motorcycles vs. Mopeds (And Why It Matters)

Maryland splits two-wheelers into two main categories: motorcycles and mopeds. The difference comes down to engine size and top speed.

A motorcycle has an engine over 50cc or can exceed 30 mph. Anything smaller or slower is a moped. This classification isn’t just technical, it changes the registration process, insurance requirements, and where you can ride.

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If your bike has a 50cc engine but can’t hit 30 mph, it’s a moped. If it’s 51cc or faster, it’s a motorcycle. Get this wrong, and you’ll pay the wrong fee or face delays at the MVA.

The 3 Factors That Change Your Fee

Not all motorcycles or mopeds cost the same to register. Three things can push your fee up or down:

Vehicle type: Motorcycles cost more than mopeds.
Registration length: 2-year is standard and cheaper per year.
Additional services: Titling, plates, or late fees add to the base cost.

Weight and engine size don’t directly affect the registration fee for most riders, but they do determine whether you’re registering a motorcycle or a moped in the first place.

Exact Fees for Motorcycles in Maryland

Here’s what you’ll pay for a motorcycle as of 2026:

Fee Type	Cost
2-year registration	$103
Title fee	$5
Late fee	$25

The $103 covers the registration itself. The title fee is a one-time cost if you’re transferring ownership. If you let your registration lapse, the $25 late fee applies.

Exact Fees for Mopeds in Maryland

Mopeds are cheaper to register, but the process is similar:

Fee Type	Cost
2-year registration	$51
Title fee	$5
Late fee	$25

Mopeds under 50cc don’t require a title in Maryland, but you’ll still pay the $5 fee if you’re registering a new or used moped for the first time. The late fee applies the same way as it does for motorcycles.

Additional Costs You Might Overlook

Some riders forget about the extras. Maryland charges a $5 title fee for new registrations. If you want special plates, add another $20 to $50 depending on the design.

Sales tax applies if you’re buying from a dealer. That’s 6% of the purchase price in most counties. Private sales don’t include tax, but you’ll still pay the title and registration fees.

Step-by-Step: How to Register (And Pay the Right Fee)

First, gather your documents. You’ll need the title, proof of insurance, and a completed application form.

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Next, visit an MVA office or use their online portal. Pay the fee, and you’ll get your plates and registration card. If you’re transferring from out of state, bring a VIN inspection certificate.

Where to Register: Online, In-Person, or By Mail

Online registration is fastest. The MVA’s website lets you complete everything in minutes if you have your documents ready.

In-person works if you need help or have questions. Mail is an option, but it takes longer. Processing can take 4 to 6 weeks by mail.

Common Mistakes That Cost You Extra

Using the wrong vehicle classification is the biggest error. If you register a 50cc scooter as a motorcycle, you’ll overpay.

Missing the deadline adds a $25 late fee. Forgetting proof of insurance means you’ll have to come back. Double-check your paperwork before submitting.

What Happens If You Don’t Register (Or Register Late)

Riding unregistered can lead to a $70 fine. Police can pull you over for an expired or missing registration.

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Late fees stack up. After 30 days, you’ll pay $25 plus the standard registration cost. After 60 days, the MVA may require a new inspection.

Maryland-Specific Rules You Need to Know

Maryland requires proof of insurance to register any motorcycle or moped. The minimum coverage is $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage.

If your moped is under 50cc, you don’t need a title. But you still need to register it. Electric mopeds follow the same rules as gas-powered ones.