Following the death of a loved one, informing various institutions is a necessary step to close accounts, prevent misuse of the deceased's information, and transfer ownership where necessary. One such institution is the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), especially if the deceased owned a vehicle or held a driver's license.
Who Should Be Notified
The Maryland MVA should be notified if the deceased held a Maryland driver's license or identification card, or owned a vehicle registered in Maryland. This helps in preventing identity theft and aids in the transfer or sale of the vehicle.
When to Notify
You should notify the Maryland MVA as soon as possible, typically within 30 days of the death, to expedite the process of transferring vehicle ownership and canceling the driver's license.
How to Notify
To notify the MVA, you will need to submit a copy of the death certificate and the deceased's driver's license or ID card to the MVA's Driver Wellness and Safety Division. If the deceased owned a vehicle, you would need to follow the state's process for transferring vehicle ownership.
What to Expect After Notification
Once you have notified the MVA and they have processed the information, the deceased's driver's license or ID will be canceled. If there was a vehicle registered to the deceased, the MVA will provide guidance on how to transfer the ownership, which may involve providing a will or other documents proving your right to the vehicle.
Tips for Notification
When dealing with the MVA, it's crucial to provide accurate information and ensure all necessary forms are filled out completely to prevent delays. In addition to the death certificate, have the deceased's driver's license number and vehicle registration details on hand.
Conclusion
Notifying the Maryland MVA after the death of a loved one is an essential task to prevent misuse of the deceased's identity and facilitate the transfer of any vehicles they owned. By approaching this with adequate preparation, you can ensure a smooth process during this difficult time.
FAQ
Q: What if the deceased's vehicle is jointly owned?
A: If the vehicle is jointly owned with rights of survivorship, the surviving owner can take full ownership by providing the MVA with the death certificate and the current title.
Q: What if there's a lien on the deceased's vehicle?
A: The lienholder should be contacted immediately as they have rights to the vehicle until the lien is paid off.
Q: Can I transfer the deceased's disability parking placard?
A: No, disability parking placards are not transferable and must be returned to the MVA upon the placard holder's death.
