So, you’re currently dealing with trying to obtain new license plates or transfer your current ones?
Going through the process of switching or transferring plates can feel confusing for any driver - especially if you haven’t had to do it yourself before.
At Berry Insurance, we’re experienced in helping to steer our clients in the right direction when they’re looking to get brand new license plates or transfer their existing plates to a friend or family member.
So, continue reading for a complete breakdown on how to go about transferring plates or replacing lost/damaged plates.
How do I order replacement plates in Massachusetts?
If you’ve found yourself having to obtain new plates after one or both have become lost or damaged - you will need to request a replacement through the RMV. You are allowed to request one or two replacement plates at any time. These replacement plates will have the exact same number and be the same plate type as your current registration plates.
Orders can be easily handled online on the RMV’s website, or by setting up an in-person appointment with your local RMV.
What do you need to order replacement plates?
In order to replace your vehicle’s current license plates, you will be required to provide the following:
- The completed Application for Replacement Plates
- The vehicle's current license plate number
- Proof of vehicle ownership, such as the vehicle's registration or title
- Additional information about the driver and vehicle
- The replacement fee
Additionally, in order to receive replacement plates in Massachusetts, your vehicle must be insured under an auto insurance policy that meets the state's minimum coverage standards. Proof of insurance may be required to complete the replacement process. For more information regarding the state minimums, and why you should actually have more, check out this guide: How Much Car Insurance Do I Need? (And Why the State Minimum Isn’t Enough).
How much does it cost to replace my license plate(s)?
License plate replacement fees for all plate types will cost you $10 per plate. However, there is no fee attached if your vehicle failed inspection for an illegible plate.
How long does it take to get a replacement plate?
The amount of time it will take to receive your replacement plate can vary. In most cases, they should be mailed to your address within 10 to 14 business days.
Once completing your replacement application, the RMV will issue you a plate permit to keep in your vehicle until your new plate arrives. This plate permit may be used for inspection if needed. If you’ve lost your front license plate, you are required to make a temporary license plate number to attach to the front of your vehicle.
If you have instead lost your rear license plate, you must attach your remaining front license plate to the rear of the vehicle as well as request a replacement expiration decal. You must then also create a temporary plate with the plate number to attach to the front of your vehicle.
Another thing Massachusetts drivers should be aware of is that if you have older green license plates that are damaged, lost, or no longer legible, then they will need to be replaced with red plates instead. This replacement is free of charge, but you would be able to keep your older plates as long as they have been recently redone to be easier to read.
How do I transfer plates in Massachusetts?
Transferring license plates from one vehicle to another is a common transaction most drivers will encounter at some point. Whether you just got a new vehicle or are gifting one, the RMV easily allows drivers to transfer plates from old to new vehicles or to another driver.
Drivers should not go through the process of transferring plates with the RMV until they have gone to their insurance agency or auto dealer to process the transaction.
In Massachusetts, you typically are allowed a 7-calendar-day grace period from the day you dispose of your previous vehicle to register your new vehicle. However, during this time you must carry proof of ownership transfer in the event you are stopped by the police.
What do I need to transfer my plates?
To transfer your license plates/vehicle registration to another vehicle, you will be required to supply the following:
- A completed Registration and Title Application
- Proof of ownership
- Pay the required transfer fee
How much does it cost to transfer plates?
The price of transferring plates will vary depending on your specific plate type. For a full list of RMV plate types and associated fees, refer to the RMV’s Schedule of Fees.
How long does it take to transfer plates?
After you complete the transfer transaction, you should receive a registration certificate with the new vehicle information.
The title should then be processed and mailed to you within 6 to 8 weeks. If you currently have a loan on the vehicle, the title will be mailed directly to your lienholder.
What if I have low number/lottery plates?
If you’ve applied for the Massachusetts low plate lottery or have inherited a low number plate, the process of transitioning to your new plate will require some different steps due to their rarity.
When looking to transfer from your current vehicle plate, you should bring the following to the RMV:
- Your old license plates
- A completed RTA (Registration and Title Application) form stamped by your insurance company (if the vehicle is currently registered)
- The vehicle's current registration
- Your driver’s license
If you’re instead looking to register a new vehicle with the low number plates, you would need to bring the following to the RMV:
- A completed RTA (Registration and Title Application) form stamped by your insurance company
- Title (if the vehicle is used)
- Certificate of origin (if the vehicle is new)
- Bill of Sale (if the vehicle is new)
- Your driver’s license
If you’ve inherited low number plates from a loved one, you may be at a loss for how to handle the entire vehicle transfer process. To learn more about how to handle vehicle transfers after the previous owner has passed, read this article: How to Transfer a Vehicle After Someone Passes Away.
One less thing on your plate
While transfers and replacements can seem tedious at first, following the steps we outlined should make each transaction run smoothly - and let you check off one more step on your list!
If you instead need to cancel your license plates altogether, then check out our guide on how to go about plate cancellations in Massachusetts. We break down exactly what you’ll need to provide and what to do with your plates once they’re canceled.
