How to Complete an Application for Car Title in Massachusetts: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Car titles are required for most vehicles in Massachusetts. To register and drive your car legally, you must obtain a title when you purchase it or move to the state.
Use our guide to completing the Massachusetts title application to learn how to prepare and fill out the forms.
Introduction to Vehicle Titles in Massachusetts
Vehicle titles provide proof of ownership in Massachusetts. State law requires most vehicles to have a title. However, there are a couple of exceptions. Vehicles model year 1980 or older purchased before November 26, 1990, as well as trailers 3,000 pounds or less, do not need titles.
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) issues vehicle titles and regulates vehicle ownership. Titles are used for buying and selling vehicles, a title transfer in Massachusetts, and maintaining ownership interests for lienholders.
Understanding Vehicle Ownership in Massachusetts
You can establish legal ownership of a vehicle in Massachusetts by getting a car title and registering the vehicle. The state requires that you apply for a Massachusetts car title within 10 days of purchase.
After registering your vehicle, you must also visit a vehicle inspection station to have your car inspected. A title, vehicle registration, inspection sticker, and insurance policy are required to legally operate your vehicle on Massachusetts roadways. The RMV has an online tool that you can use to check the status of your vehicle registration.
Applying for a Car Title in Massachusetts
To apply for a car title in Massachusetts, you must provide a completed Massachusetts title application form, proof of ownership, certificate of title fee, and sales tax. The title application in Massachusetts includes the following information:
- Vehicle information – Vehicle identification number (VIN), color, year, make, model, odometer reading, weight, etc.
- Title information – Vehicle condition, previous title information, title type, etc.
- Owner information – Identification, name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, contact information, etc.
- Business owner information – Name, address, contact information, etc.
- Garaging address
- Lienholder information – Lien code, name, and address
- Sales or use tax schedule – Sales price, trade-in information, etc.
- Purchase information
- Insurance information
- Seller information – Name and address
- Signatures
For a title-only application, you must complete the vehicle information, owner information, title information, lienholder information, sales or use tax schedule (completed by a dealership, if applicable), and signatures.
Proof of ownership might include a certificate of origin (for new vehicles), original title with assignment completed by the seller, dealer reassignment form, or the existing registration and a bill of sale (for vehicles exempt from title requirements). Your documentation must include signatures from the buyer and seller, as well as a current odometer reading.
The title fee in Massachusetts is $75. Your sales or use tax is based on the sale price or book value, depending on the type of transaction. You must pay the title fee upon applying. However, sales and use tax is not due until the 20th of the month following the purchase.
You can apply for a title by mail and in person. You can also begin the process online by logging on to the myRMV site. The mailing address for applications, documentation, and payment is RMV, Attention: Title Department, PO Box 55885, Boston, MA 02205.
Special Considerations for Title Applications
Applying for a Title for Vehicles from Private Sellers
When buying or selling a car in Massachusetts through private sales, the buyer and seller must work together to transfer the vehicle’s ownership. If a title is required for the vehicle, both parties must fill out the assignment and sign on the original title. If a title is not required, a bill of sale that includes similar vehicle and transaction information is acceptable.
Dealing with Titles for Inherited Vehicles
A deceased individual’s vehicle can be claimed by a spouse or a personal representative (dictated by either the decedent’s will or a court).
Spouses must provide a Massachusetts application for title, original title with the assignment completed, affidavit of surviving spouse, and a copy of the death certificate. To keep the vehicle registered, an agent of the insurance company must have stamped the application title.
Personal representatives must provide a copy of the appointment of personal representative and the original title with the assignment completed. The personal representative of a will may also give these documents to another individual to take ownership.
Importance of Auto Insurance After Title Application
To register your car in Massachusetts, you must provide proof of insurance. The Massachusetts RMV title application is also used for registration, and it requires an insurance agent’s or company’s stamp.
If the authorities catch you driving without car insurance in Massachusetts, you could face penalties such as fines, jail time, license suspension, registration and license plate suspension, and reinstatement fees.
Get the Best Car Insurance Coverage for Your Needs
You must purchase a valid car insurance policy to drive legally in Massachusetts. Your policy options and rates will vary by ZIP code and driver profile. Compare custom policies using EverQuote’s free online quote comparison tool. Get started by entering your ZIP code now.