How to Register a Vehicle in Massachusetts

Younis ShuaibUpdated September 5th, 2025

Share

• 
• 
• 

An up-to-date Massachusetts vehicle registration is a legal requirement for residents. If you recently bought a car or moved to the commonwealth with a vehicle in your name, you need to get it officially registered as quickly as possible.

This guide will walk you through the Massachusetts vehicle registry process, including the required documents, fees, inspection rules, and recent changes to laws and procedures.

Required Documents for Massachusetts Vehicle Registration

You need to provide specific forms and documents to register a vehicle in Massachusetts. It’s always recommended that you have everything you need before you start the process to ensure everything runs smoothly and swiftly.

Here’s a list of all the paperwork you’ll need to complete your Massachusetts automobile registration:

• A completed Registration and Title Application
• A valid Massachusetts driver’s license
• Proof of ownership (previous owner’s title OR certificate of origin)
• A copy of your insurance policy (must be signed and stamped by a licensed Massachusetts insurance agent)
• Massachusetts bill of sale form (for used cars purchased from private sellers)

Step-by-Step Vehicle Registration Process in Massachusetts

Auto registration in Massachusetts is fairly straightforward as long as you follow the necessary steps and have your documentation handy. Here’s what you need to do, from filling out an application to receiving your Massachusetts license plates:

1. Before visiting the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), complete an application form and gather all the other required documents listed above.
2. Make sure you have the minimum required Massachusetts car insurance and get your RMV form stamped by your insurer.
3. Visit an RMV Massachusetts registration center with your documentation.
4. Pay the title and registration fees, plus sales tax.
5. Wait for processing and get your license plates and registration certificate.
6. Get a vehicle safety and emissions inspection within 7 days of registration.

If you’re registering an out-of-state car, you’ll also need a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification performed, which can be done at the inspection station or police department.

Fees and Payment Methods

To get and maintain proper registration under Massachusetts law, you need to pay some one-time and ongoing fees and taxes.

The standard title fee is $75, and the registration fees are $60 for passenger cars and $20 for motorcycles. License plates are covered under these fees but there are extra plate fees if you want a specialty license plate, which includes an annual renewal fee of $20-$50.

You’ll also be charged a sales/use tax of 6.25% on the purchase price if you’re registering a new car and an ongoing annual excise tax, which varies by county.

Vehicle Inspection and Emissions Testing

All passenger cars, motorcycles, and light-duty trucks with a Massachusetts registration are required to undergo annual safety and emissions inspections. You have 7 days after initial registration to get this done, and then it’s due every 12 months after that.

You can get your car tested at any Massachusetts Vehicle Check Inspection Station. Many gas and service stations in the commonwealth offer this service. The standard inspection fee is $35, and you never want to put it off because you can face fines up to $100 if your inspection is out of date.

Renewing Your Massachusetts Vehicle Registration

The Massachusetts title registration renewal and replacement process is pretty simple as long as you keep your address up to date in the system. You’ll get a renewal form in the mail six to eight weeks before your existing registration expires.

You can generally renew online or by phone as long as you have good standing with the courts and your address on file is correct. You’ll just need to provide the following:

• Your plate type and driver’s license number
• Your email address
• Payment in the form of an E-check, debit card, or credit card

If you’re not eligible to renew online, you can renew by mail or in person with payment and a completed RMV-2 or RMV-3 form.

Common Registration Mistakes to Avoid

Some common and seemingly small mistakes can delay the process. The best way to avoid frustration and get your registration in a timely fashion is to prepare ahead of time. It can even be helpful to make a checklist and go over it before your appointment.

Here are some of the most common car registration pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Missing or incomplete documents: Make sure you completely and accurately fill out your Massachusetts application for title.
• Invalid or out-of-state license: It’s a good idea to check your Massachusetts driver's license status.
• Late registration: Per Massachusetts law, you must register your vehicle as soon as it’s purchased (driving an unregistered car will result in fines and penalties).

Compare Car Insurance Quotes After Registration

Whether you’ve just moved to Massachusetts or recently purchased a car in the commonwealth, auto insurance is a must-have for drivers. Finding cheap car insurance in Massachusetts may seem impossible at first glance, but EverQuote makes it easy. 

With our tool, you can see custom comparisons of top auto insurance policies, allowing you to get the coverage you need at a reasonable price.

FAQs