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Massachusetts Vehicle Registration

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration: Everything You Need to Know

If you own a vehicle in Massachusetts, you’re required to register it with the state. The process can seem complex and daunting, but we’ve broken down everything you need to know to get your vehicle registered with ease.

Who Needs to Register Their Vehicle in Massachusetts?

Any vehicle owner who moves a vehicle on Massachusetts roads must register that vehicle. This applies to both residents and non-residents who live in the state for more than 30 days per year.

How to Register Your Vehicle in Massachusetts

To register your vehicle in Massachusetts, you must visit a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) service center or AAA location. You’ll need the following documents:

– Proof of ownership (title certificate or bill of sale)
– Proof of insurance
– Your driver’s license or other acceptable form of identification
– Payment for the registration fee

In addition to these documents, you may need to provide other documentation, such as a lienholder agreement or emissions inspection results.

Registration Fees in Massachusetts

The registration fee in Massachusetts is based on the weight and value of the vehicle. The base fee for a passenger vehicle is $60, and additional fees may apply for specialty plates, personalized plates, and other registration types.

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration in Massachusetts

Vehicle registration in Massachusetts is valid for two years. You’ll receive a renewal notice in the mail before your registration expires, and you can renew your registration online, by mail, or in person at an RMV service center or AAA location.

Penalties for Not Registering Your Vehicle

If you fail to register your vehicle in Massachusetts, you may face penalties, including fines, impoundment, or suspension of your driver’s license. It’s important to register your vehicle on time to avoid these consequences.

Special Registration Types in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a variety of specialty registration types, including:

– Disabled veteran plates
– Environmental license plates
– Collegiate plates
– Olympic plates
– Vanity plates

If you’re interested in a specialty plate, you can learn more about the options and requirements on the Massachusetts RMV website.

Get Your Vehicle Registered in Massachusetts Today

Now that you understand the basics of registering your vehicle in Massachusetts, you can navigate the process with ease. Registering your vehicle on time will keep you in compliance with state law and ensure that you can drive safely on Massachusetts roads.


Massachusetts vehicle registration regulations require motor vehicle owners to properly register their motor vehicle with the Registry of Motor Vehicles of Massachusetts before driving on the roads. Both new and used vehicles have to complete MA registration.

Initial Massachusetts Vehicle Registration

If you are registering your motor vehicle in for the first time in Massachusetts, here are the steps to complete the MA vehicle registration process.

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration (Bought from a Non-Dealer)

You must first contact a state licensed insurance agent in order to collect an active insurance policy. Ask the insurance agent to then complete and stamp this Application for Registration and Title (Form RMV-1). If the vehicle has a lien on it, you must make sure that all the information of the lien holder is discussed.

You can then visit a full service the Registry of Motor Vehicles branch office, and bring along the completed title and MA registration form. You will have to provide proof of auto insurance, the Certificate of Title from the previous owner or the previous vehicle registration and the bill of sale.

For motor vehicles that have been previously registered in a different state, you will also need the original, title that is out-of-state. If this title is unavailable, you can alternatively bring the vehicle’s registration document with proof of sales tax payment. You will also get an inspection sticker within seven days of your motor vehicle completing the MA vehicle Registration.

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration (Bought from an Out of State Dealer)

You will still need a state license insurance agent to submit Application for Registration and Title (Form RMV-1). You can then bring the completed title form and MA registration form, proof of insurance, Certificate of Origin for new vehicles, dealer reassignment, and the previous owner’s title. When submitting the Bill of Sale or the Certificate of Origin, the purchase price, selling date, and odometer reading have to be mentioned on the back of the form.

IF the motor vehicle has a registration from a different state, you must provide the original, out-of-state title or the registration document with proof of sales tax payment. After completing the MA registration, you must then get a vehicle inspection within seven days.

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration (Bought from a Massachusetts Dealer)

The dealer should complete and stamp the Application for Registration and Title (from RMV-1). You can then talk to a state licensed insurance to get an active insurance policy. Go to a full service Registry of Motor Vehicles branch office, and bring along the completed title and MA vehicle registration form, proof of insurance, and the Certificate of Origin for new vehicles.

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration Fees

When you complete your MA vehicle registration, you need to also pay the appropriate fees including the $50 title fee and the registration fee, which varies depending on the vehicle.

Renewing your Massachusetts vehicle registration

Owners of vehicles in Massachusetts have to renew their MA vehicle registration every year, and can do so online, in person, by mail or telephone.