07/30/2025
HISTORIC VEHICLE TAGS
As of July 1, 2025, Maryland has updated its rules for historic vehicle tags. Here are the key changes and requirements:
✅ Eligibility Requirements
• New Rule: Vehicles must be model year 1999 or older to qualify for historic tags.
• Old Rule: Previously, any vehicle 20 years or older qualified.
• This change affects around 72,000 vehicles that no longer meet the criteria
🚫 Vehicles No Longer Eligible
• Vehicles from model years 2000 to 2005 that previously qualified must now switch to standard registration.
• These vehicles will also be subject to:
• Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP)
• Safety inspection, if no record exists under the current owner
💰 Cost and Fees
• Registration fees have increased:
• From $67.50 in 2023 to $120.50 in 2025
⚠️ Why the Change?
• The state aims to reduce misuse of historic tags, which were often used to avoid inspections and lower insurance costs.
• Lawmakers expect the change to generate $6 million annually
Maryland does have usage restrictions for vehicles with historic tags, but there is no specific mileage limit mentioned in the law. Instead, the focus is on how and when the vehicle is used.
🚗 Usage Restrictions for Historic Tags in Maryland
Vehicles with historic tags:
• Cannot be used for daily driving, commuting, or commercial purposes.
• Are limited to:
• Antique car club events
• Exhibits and tours
• Parades
• Educational displays at schools or museums
⚠️ Penalties for Misuse
• Using a historic-tagged vehicle for everyday driving can result in:
• Misdemeanor charges
• Fines up to $500 per violation
• Possible revocation of the historic tag