Whether it’s the Bay State, The Old Colony State, or the Baked Bean State - Massachusetts can go by a lot of names. So, if you’re planning on making whatever name you want to call it your new home, then allow us to welcome you! Here we’re the home of Boston cream pie, over 1,000 Dunkins, and of course, confusing vehicle regulations.
At Berry Insurance, we often encounter new Massachusetts residents unsure of the process needed to register their vehicle in order to operate legally on the road. That’s why we're here to help break down the process of registering your vehicle upon moving to Massachusetts, including how to register, what you’ll need, and how much it will cost.
How to transfer your vehicle
After becoming a Massachusetts resident, you are legally required to register your vehicles in the state as soon as possible - no grace period here, unfortunately.
In order to transfer your vehicle from out of state, you will need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Obtain Massachusetts auto insurance
Since you will need proof of Massachusetts insurance as a part of the transfer, you should first obtain an auto insurance policy through a reputable Massachusetts based insurance agent or provider.
From here they can complete, stamp and sign an application for registration & title.
When shopping for new auto insurance, Berry Insurance recommends choosing an agency or provider that meets your specific needs and offers the best coverage. For more tips read our guide on what to look for when selecting an insurance agency or company.
Step 2: Gather required documents and information
In addition to the signed and stamped registration & title completed by your agent or provider, you will also need to acquire the following documents to complete your transfer at your local RMV.
- Proof of ownership through a certificate of title or if a lien exists on the vehicle, your registration from the previous state.
- Note that the following states issue a title even if a lien exists: New York, Kentucky, Minnesota, Maryland, Missouri, and Montana.
- A completed tax exemption affidavit for vehicles purchased outside of Massachusetts (if applicable) - (MVU-29)
- Proper payment
Step 3: Go to your local RMV
After gathering up the proper documentation and signing every form, you should be ready to bring everything to your local RMV to finalize your vehicle transfer.
How much are vehicle transfer fees in Massachusetts?
When transferring your out-of-state vehicle in Massachusetts, you will typically be charged $60 for registration of a normal private passenger vehicle. This registration is usually good for 2 years. In addition to this, the required Certificate of Title fee is $75, making your total $135.
However, the cost to register your vehicle in Massachusetts can actually vary depending on plate type. For more information on this cost, refer to the RMV’s Schedule of Fees, which breaks down specific plate types and fees.
Vehicle inspection
After you have registered your vehicle in Massachusetts, you are given seven calendar days to receive an inspection sticker. Inspections are an annual requirement in Massachusetts and can be completed at any local inspection stations, typically costing you around $35.
Do I need to register my leased vehicle?
Leased vehicles will need to be registered and titled once brought to Massachusetts, unless your vehicle is currently titled in the leasing company’s state of residence. So, for example, if you’re bringing a leased vehicle that is titled in Utah, and the leasing company is based in Utah - the vehicle would need to be registered but not titled when brought to Massachusetts.
If the leased vehicle does need to be titled in Massachusetts:
When the leased vehicle has to be titled in MA, the lessee must bring the following to the RMV:
- Application for Registration & Title - completed, stamped, and signed by a MA insurance agent/company
- The existing out-of-state title
- $75 title fee
- Registration fee
If the leased vehicle does not need to be titled in Massachusetts:
When the leased vehicle does not need to be titled in Massachusetts but still registered, the lessee must bring the following to the RMV:
- Application for Registration & Title - completed, stamped, and signed by a MA insurance agent/company
- Copy of the current out-of-state title
- Registration fee
Do note that power of attorney paperwork must be obtained from the leasing company to sign documents on their behalf for the registration.
As mentioned above, refer to the RMV’s Schedule of Fees for a full list of RMV plate types and fees.
Making the move
Now that you know more about how the process of registering and titling your vehicle when moving to Massachusetts, you can hopefully have an easier time crossing that task off your long to-do list!
We know that Massachusetts auto insurance comes with its own learning curve, making it important for any new resident of The Cranberry State to know where they should and shouldn’t be cutting coverage. Check out our full overview of Massachusetts auto insurance, including how much you need and why the state minimums won’t be enough.
For new Massachusetts residents looking to get a head start on their quote, fill out our personal insurance worksheet below:
