Everything active duty members need to know about vehicle registration, driver's license transfer, and your SCRA rights when PCSing to Aberdeen, Maryland.
SCRA Protection: The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows active duty members to keep their home-state vehicle registration while stationed in Maryland. Consult the Aberdeen Proving Ground JAG office for your specific situation.
Decide: maintain home-state or transfer registration
SCRA lets you keep your home-state plates while stationed in Maryland. However, if you want Maryland residency (e.g., no state income tax), you may benefit from transferring.
2
Get your on-post vehicle decal first
Before anything else, visit the Aberdeen Proving Ground Provost Marshal office to get your installation vehicle registration decal. You'll need this to enter the base.
3
Visit the DMV (or complete by mail)
Contact MD Motor Vehicle Administration at (410) 768-7000. Many states allow active duty to complete vehicle registration by mail using PCS orders. Check https://mva.maryland.gov for the military exemption process.
4
Transfer your driver's license (if applicable)
If establishing Maryland residency, exchange your license at the local DMV. Bring your military ID and PCS orders. Present these for any military fee exemptions.
5
Update your auto insurance
Notify your insurer of your new address. Moving to a different state often changes your premium. If using USAA or GEICO Military, this is a simple online update.
✅ PCS DMV Checklist
Decide: SCRA exemption or transfer to Maryland
Get installation vehicle decal (Provost Marshal)
Gather PCS orders + vehicle title + insurance
Contact JAG for SCRA guidance
Schedule DMV appointment (or mail-in packet)
Update vehicle registration
Exchange driver's license (if residency transfer)
Update car insurance to new address
Notify lender of address change (if financed)
Update military/DEERS record with new address
Get emissions inspection (if required in Maryland)
Update vehicle registration in finance records
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Do I have to register my car in Maryland if I'm active duty?
Under the SCRA, active duty members may keep their home-state registration while stationed in Maryland. Active duty registered in MD exempt from the titling tax for one vehicle.
How long do I have to register my vehicle after arriving at Aberdeen Proving Ground?
If you choose to transfer registration to Maryland, timelines vary. Contact the MD Motor Vehicle Administration at (410) 768-7000 for the current military grace period.
Can my spouse register a vehicle in Maryland?
Military spouses may be covered under the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA). Consult the JAG office at Aberdeen Proving Ground for your specific situation.
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