Massachusetts
Applying for a Car Registration in Massachusetts
You must always obtain a Massachusetts vehicle registration after acquiring an automobile from a dealer or private seller. Without valid DMV registration credentials from the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), you cannot legally drive your vehicle on public roads and highways. After registering your newly acquired vehicle, you have a short window to complete an inspection. Every year, you will complete the registration renewal process to keep your vehicle up to code.
The steps you must take to register your vehicle will vary slightly depending on whether you purchased it from a dealership or an independent seller. While both situations require you to visit a local RMV service center to submit your application materials in person, the types of documents you must present during your office visit will be different. To learn more about DMV car registration in MA and how to apply, review the information below.
Getting Vehicle Registration Records in Massachusetts
To get new car registration credentials for your car, you must visit a RMV service center near you. However, you must first complete an official RMV application, as this includes important information about each vehicle owner and the automobile you wish to register in Massachusetts.
Next, you must get an insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements from a licensed agent. During your office visit, you will need to submit proof of an active insurance policy to register your vehicle. Download our free guide to learn more about the requirements in your state.
Lastly, you must bring your MA auto registration application to an RMV service center, which must be signed and stamped by the insurance agent. Before heading in, however, you must gather several important documents, such as proof of vehicle ownership. These documents will vary slightly depending on whether you purchased the vehicle from a dealership or private seller. To learn more about the types of documents you must submit during your RMV office visit, review the sections below.
If You Purchased the Vehicle from a Dealership
Many drivers wonder, “How can I apply for a Massachusetts car registration near me if I purchase a vehicle from a dealership?” After obtaining an active insurance policy from a licensed agent, you must bring your completed application and proof of vehicle ownership to your local RMV service Center.
After purchasing an automobile from a dealership, you may use the vehicle’s current certificate of title or manufacturer’s certificate of origin as proof of ownership.
Next, you must pay vehicle registration fees and sales tax on the purchase of your newly acquired automobile. When you purchase a car, truck or SUV from a dealership, the amount of sales tax you must pay will depend on the purchase price of the vehicle.
After submitting your RMV registration application materials, you will receive new license plates, validation decals and a certificate of registration before leaving the office. However, your new title certificate will arrive in the mail.
If You Purchased the Vehicle in a Private Sale
To get a new Massachusetts vehicle registration after purchasing a car, truck or minivan from a private party, you must bring your completed application and the automobile’s reassigned certificate of title to your local RMV service center.
Next, you must pay car registration fees and sales tax on the purchase of the privately obtained vehicle. If you acquire or inherit the vehicle from a family member, however, you may qualify for an exemption from paying sales tax.
After registering your privately purchased vehicle with the Massachusetts RMV, you will receive new license plates, a registration certificate and validation decals before leaving the office. However, the vehicle’s certificate of title will be mailed to you once it is processed.
Download our free guide to learn more about Massachusetts vehicle registration.