Car title loans in Maryland: what's allowed instead
Census ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimates; NCUA June 2026 call report; FDIC BankFind, Oct 2026.
Maryland title loan rules at a glance
| Governing law | A vehicle title loan is a consumer loan covered by Maryland's credit laws (Commercial Law Title 12 and Financial Institutions Title 11), including all interest rate and fee caps, regardless of what the contract is called. It is not a pawn transaction. Non-exempt title lenders must be licensed by the Commissioner. (Md. Code, Com. Law Title 12; Fin. Inst. Title 11) |
|---|---|
| Rate / fee cap | Same caps as other consumer loans: Interest on loans of $2,000 or less is capped at 2.75% a month (33% a year) on the first $1,000 and 2% a month (24% a year) on the rest; loans over $2,000 are capped at 2% a month (24% a year) on the whole loan. (Md. Code, Com. Law § 12-306(a)(6)) |
| Repossession notice / right to cure | For loans made under the higher § 12-306(a)(6) rates and secured by personal property, the lender must follow Commercial Law § 12-115 on repossession and redemption of the goods after default. (Md. Code, Com. Law § 12-306(a)(7)(iii)) |
Your options in Maryland
Payday loans aren't offered by state-licensed lenders here, but you can still request a personal installment loan of $100 to $5,000 through our form. Installment loans spread repayment over several months, so each payment is smaller. See Maryland personal loans.
Credit services / credit access businesses
The credit-services-business model cannot be used for payday or title loans: a credit services business may not charge fees that, combined with interest, exceed Maryland's legal rate, and may not help a consumer get credit at a rate that would be illegal in Maryland except for federal preemption. (Md. Code, Com. Law § 14-1902(7),(9))
Compare neighboring states
Lenders must follow the law of the state where you live, not where you visit.
| State | Status | Max loan |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware | Legal | Subchapter V sets no maximum loan amount. |
| Pennsylvania | Not available | — |
| Virginia | Legal | No more than $2,500, and a lender may not have you owe it more than $2,500 in principal at any time. |
| West Virginia | Not available | — |
| District of Columbia | Not available | — |
Personal loans by city in Maryland
Counties in Maryland
Show all 24 counties
Also see: Payday Loans in Maryland · Personal Loans in Maryland · All Maryland loan options
Frequently asked questions
Are title loans legal in Maryland?
Car title loans are subject to Maryland's consumer lending laws, licensing and rate caps (33%/24%), so high-cost title loans are not allowed. The Commissioner has said a title loan is not a pawn transaction.
What interest can title lenders charge in Maryland?
Same caps as other consumer loans: Interest on loans of $2,000 or less is capped at 2.75% a month (33% a year) on the first $1,000 and 2% a month (24% a year) on the rest; loans over $2,000 are capped at 2% a month (24% a year) on the whole loan.
When can a title lender repossess my car in Maryland?
For loans made under the higher § 12-306(a)(6) rates and secured by personal property, the lender must follow Commercial Law § 12-115 on repossession and redemption of the goods after default.
What do I need for a title loan in Maryland?
Most lenders ask for a vehicle title in your name, ideally free of other liens, a valid government-issued ID, proof of income, proof of residence in Maryland, and the vehicle itself for photos or a quick inspection. Some lenders also ask for proof of insurance or a spare key. Requirements vary by lender. Start our 3-minute form to see what lenders need from you.
Can I refinance my title loan in Maryland?
Often, yes. Some lenders let you refinance an existing title loan into a new loan with a different payment amount or term, and a new lender may be able to pay off your current one. Options depend on your vehicle's value, your income and Maryland rules. Enter your details on our form to see what lenders in our network can offer you. It takes about 3 minutes.
How much can I get for a title loan in Maryland?
The amount depends mainly on your vehicle's value, along with your income and Maryland rules. Lenders typically offer a portion of what your car is worth, so newer vehicles with lower mileage usually qualify for more. You'll see the exact amount and terms before signing. Enter your vehicle's details on our form to see what lenders may offer. It takes about 3 minutes.
Can I get a title loan online in Maryland?
Yes. Many title lenders let you start and complete most of the process online. You enter your vehicle and income details, then upload photos of your car, title and ID instead of visiting a store. Some lenders may still ask for a quick in-person inspection. Funds are usually sent to your bank account. Start your Maryland title loan request in about 3 minutes.