Just weeks until millions of drivers are forced to pay double to register cars, but some could get away with lower fees

DRIVERS from a northeastern state will see changes in the cost of vehicle registration, with new payment options.

The transport agency said it was to raise funds for road maintenance.

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Drivers in Maryland will see a significant increase in vehicle registration costs next summer, with some costs rising by as much as 70%.

The state says rates have not changed since 2004 — making this the first change in cost in 20 years.

Fees are based on vehicle class and weight, so the more expensive or heavier the vehicle, the more the driver will pay.

Passenger cars weighing up to 3,500 pounds will pay $221 every two years or $135 once a year.

EV owners will be charged an additional $100 to $125 on top of normal registration costs.

Drivers with vehicles over 3,700 pounds will pay $323 to register it, up from $187, according to the Baltimore flag.

Motorcyclists will also pay more, with an adjusted rate of $190 instead of $104.

For historic vehicles, the new fee will be $91 instead of $51.

According to ABC affiliate WMAReach driver will pay an average of $86 more every two years if they pay every two years.

The variation in cost depends on whether it is an all-electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid.

Chrissy Nizer, motor vehicle administrator, said the increase in registration costs was necessary to maintain the state’s major roads.

“As mandated by state law, the MVA is required to adjust vehicle registration fees that will help provide critical revenue for the Transportation Trust Fund, which ensures all state infrastructure is in good repair,” he said in a statement. quoted by NBC affiliate WBAL-TV.

“To make these new rates as affordable as possible, MVA is now offering customers the convenient option of choosing one or two.”

The outlet also noted that part of the fee increase is intended to partially fund trauma centers in the state, including medical evacuation and special training.

The changes will be implemented on July 1, 2024.

Those who need to renew their registration from July 1st will be required to pay the adjusted fees.

Maryland Registration Fee Increase Analysis

The Motor Vehicle Administration detailed the other adjusted registration costs for Maryland drivers:

“The reflected cost is one (1) year at the time of titling or registration renewal, but vehicles can also be renewed for two years,” says the MVA website.

“The following fees include the $40.00 annual surcharge for the EMS system unless otherwise noted.”

1. Passenger cars (up to 3,500 pounds): $110.50
2. Passenger cars (over 3,500 but under 3,700 pounds): $120.50
3. Passenger cars (over 3,700 pounds): $161.50
4. Passenger vehicle operated for rent: $210.00
5. Funeral vehicles and ambulances: US$160.00
6. Motorcycles: $95.00
7. Historic Vehicles: $45.50
8. Multipurpose Vehicle (up to 3,500 pounds): $110.50
9. Multi-Purpose Vehicle (Greater than 3,500 but less than 3,700 pounds): $120.50
10. Multipurpose Vehicle (over 3,700 pounds): $161.50
11. Street road vehicles: $45.00
12. Limousine: $245.00
13. Low Speed ​​Vehicles: $75.00

Source: BF

Those who renewed their registration before July 1st will be able to expect to pay current fees.

Users in r/Maryland subreddit had mixed feelings about the new change, with many saying it could make it unaffordable for some families.

“Two-year registration on our family car will go from $187 to $523. That’s crazy. (Tax > £3,700 plus PHEV tax),” wrote one user, gaining 350 upvotes.

“I wonder if they will start arresting people for expired tags or if this will be another cost that will only hit people who follow the rules.”

Another person felt it was not the right time to increase registration costs.

“With inflation at generational levels, home prices at record levels, and wage growth stagnant, this is absolutely the worst possible time to increase registration fees by 60-75%,” wrote one user.

A different user wrote that it was supposed to be a warning to voters.

“When does the narrative shift from ‘we need higher government revenues’ to ‘Why isn’t the government spending money efficiently?’” they wrote.