We understand that you might be hesitant to donate your vehicle if the registration has lapsed for over a year. It’s a common concern! But we’re here to reassure you: expired registration does not affect your ability to donate. As long as you hold a clean title and the vehicle is in your name, you can still contribute to our mission.
When you decide to donate, the registration status is merely a formality. Your vehicle can sit in your driveway or barn for years, and that won’t prevent us from accepting it. We take care of the logistics involved in towing or storing the vehicle, so you can focus on the positive impact your donation will have on our community!
How to make it happen
Check Title
Ensure that the vehicle title is clean and in your name. This is the most important document for the donation process, as it establishes ownership.
Contact Us
Reach out to Chesapeake Chariots either via phone or our website to initiate the donation process. We’ll guide you through the necessary steps and paperwork.
Complete Release of Liability
Fill out a release of liability form to protect yourself from future liabilities associated with the vehicle. We can provide this form as part of the donation process.
Surrender Plates or Destroy Them
You’ll need to surrender the vehicle’s license plates to the DMV or, if preferred, destroy and recycle them yourself. This is a separate step from the donation process.
Schedule Pickup
Once all paperwork is complete, we will arrange to pick up the vehicle at your convenience. Don’t worry about towing or storage fees—we handle everything for you.
Common gotchas
Not Checking Title Status
Tip: Ensure the title is clear and in your name before initiating the donation. Any liens on the vehicle can complicate the process and may halt the donation.
Forgetting to File Release of Liability
Tip: Don’t overlook the release of liability form! This protects you legally after the vehicle is no longer in your possession.
Not Surrendering Plates
Tip: Remember, you need to handle your plates separately from the donation process. This can be done either by surrendering them to the DMV or recycling them yourself.
If this path doesn't fit
If donating isn’t feasible due to issues like a missing title or if there are liens on the vehicle, consider selling your vehicle to a local junkyard or auto salvage. You may also explore local charitable organizations that might accept non-running vehicles, but ensure you check their policies.
Maryland DMV specifics
In Maryland, you must surrender your vehicle's license plates to the DMV when donating. You can do this in person at any DMV branch or via mail. Make sure to keep a record of the surrender for your records. Additionally, if there’s a lien on the title, you’ll need to resolve that prior to donation, as it can complicate the process significantly.