Maryland Dealer Reassignment Form (VR-182)
When a vehicle changes hands in Maryland, the title paperwork seems simple — until it isn’t. One of the most misunderstood documents in the entire process is the Maryland Dealer Reassignment Form (VR-182). Whether you’re a licensed dealer, wholesaler, or private seller handling a second transfer, the reassignment form is where mistakes happen most — and it’s often the reason a title application is delayed, rejected, or flagged for review.
If you’ve ever been told:
“You’ll need to correct this form and resubmit it.”
You already know the frustration.
This guide breaks down the purpose of the reassignment form, when to use it, when NOT to use it, and the most common errors that prevent Maryland residents from getting their plates and title on time.
What Is the Maryland Dealer Reassignment Form?
The reassignment form is used when a vehicle is being transferred by a dealer or between dealers, and there is no space remaining on the original title to record the reassignment.
It exists because:
- Some titles only include one buyer/seller space
- Vehicles may pass through multiple hands before retail sale
- Wholesalers, auctions, and licensed dealers need a legal way to record transfers
This form becomes part of the official ownership chain, just like the title itself.
When You DO Use the Reassignment Form
| Situation | Use Form? |
|---|---|
| Dealer sells to customer | ✔ Yes |
| Dealer transfers to another dealer | ✔ Yes |
| Wholesaler sells to dealer | ✔ Yes |
| Auction transfers to dealer | ✔ Yes |
These are the situations the form was designed for — multiple-stage ownership before the vehicle is titled.
When You Do NOT Use the Reassignment Form
| Situation | Use Form? |
|---|---|
| Private person sells to private person | ❌ No |
| Gift between family members | ❌ No |
| Estate transfer | ❌ No |
| Adding/removing a spouse | ❌ No |
| You simply ran out of room and are not a dealer | ❌ No |
Private sellers cannot use dealer reassignment forms.
This is a common misconception and one reason titles get kicked back.
The Sections Most People Miss or Misunderstand
Even licensed dealers get tripped up here.
These are the fields that cause the most issues:
🔹 Buyer Address Section
County, city, and ZIP are often written in the wrong boxes.
The MVA does not correct — they return.
🔹 Odometer Reading Certification
This MUST match the title and be accurate to the date of transfer.
The three statements matter:
- Actual mileage
- Exceeds mechanical limits
- Not actual mileage
If you check the wrong one, the consequences follow the car — permanently.
🔹 Lienholder Information
If financing is involved:
- Lien date
- Full lender name
- Address
Missing ANY part = return trip.
🔹 Dealer Number
Not the building number.
Not the phone number.
Not the EIN.
Your MVA-assigned dealer number — that very one.
🔹 Signatures
Seller signs seller line.
Buyer signs buyer line.
Co-buyers MUST sign.
No initials, no arrows, no corrections.
A single wrong signature voids the entire form.
Mistakes That Delay Or Void the Form
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Wrong signature placement | Rejected |
| White-out or erasures | VOID |
| Missing odometer selection | Rejected |
| Incorrect lien amount | Fees recalculated |
| Wrong date order | Suspicious → longer review |
| Cross-outs without dealer affidavit | Returned |
It’s not personal — it’s a process.
But the delay feels personal when you’re waiting for plates.
Can I Print This Form Myself?
No.
Secure dealer forms are controlled and issued to licensed dealers only.
If a PDF online looks “fillable,” that doesn’t mean legal.
Need Help? MES Can Review It With You
If you’re selling, buying, transferring, or handling paperwork from another dealer, Maryland Express Services can review your reassignment paperwork and help you avoid common errors that cause delays.
- Bring your title
- Bring your reassignment form
- We’ll go line-by-line and make sure it’s complete and correct
If you are completing a title transfer for the first time, review our Maryland Tag & Title Services page for required documents. Click here.
Walk-ins welcome — service center in Ellicott City, Maryland. Contact us,
📌 Final Thoughts
The reassignment form isn’t difficult — it’s just unforgiving.
One wrong field or signature can set you back days or weeks.
A little clarity makes the whole process feel less stressful — and a lot faster.
MES is here to help you get it right the first time.
For official Maryland title documentation and dealer forms, visit
Maryland MVA — Titles & Registration Forms
https://mva.maryland.gov/vehicles/Pages/registration/vehicle-registration-forms.aspx
Federal odometer disclosure rules and mileage status are defined by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/odometer-fraud
