How To Transfer a Car Title in Massachusetts 2026
M.G.L. Chapter 90D is the state law that governs all motor vehicle title certificates in Massachusetts. Under Section 4 of Chapter 90D, every buyer of a motor vehicle or trailer is required to apply for a new certificate of title within 10 days of purchase. Failure to meet this deadline may result in late fees and registration penalties. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) handles all title transactions.
Required Documents for Title Transfer in Massachusetts
Bring the following to your insurance agent and then to the RMV Service Center:
- Registration and Title Application (RTA): The standard form required for every title and registration transaction; must be completed, stamped, and signed by a licensed Massachusetts insurance agent
- Certificate of Title: The seller's original title, with the Assignment of Title section on the back fully completed — including sale date, purchase price, buyer's name and address, seller's name and address, and odometer reading; both parties must sign and print their names
- Bill of Sale: Required when the title does not have a space for the purchase price, or when the sale price needs to be verified against the NADA book value for tax purposes
- Odometer Disclosure: Federal and Massachusetts law require the seller to state the vehicle's mileage at the time of transfer; this information must appear on the title or bill of sale
- Proof of Massachusetts Insurance: Your insurance agent verifies coverage when they sign the RTA; a valid Massachusetts policy must be in place before registration can be issued
- Lien Release: If the seller's title shows an outstanding loan, a written release from the lienholder must be provided before a new title can be issued in the buyer's name
- Power of Attorney: Required if someone else is signing title documents on behalf of the vehicle owner
- Identity Documents: Valid government-issued photo identification meeting RMV identity requirements
Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process in Massachusetts
Step 1: Complete the Title Assignment
The seller fills in the Assignment of Title section on the back of the certificate of title. This section must include the sale date, purchase price, buyer's full name and address, seller's full name and address, and the odometer reading at the time of sale. Both the buyer and seller must sign and print their names. Per the private party car sales guide, any erasures, white-outs, or alterations on the title will not be accepted by the RMV.
Step 2: Visit a Licensed Insurance Agent
Massachusetts requires the buyer to obtain an active insurance policy before the vehicle can be registered. Take the assigned title and any supporting documents to a licensed Massachusetts insurance agent. The agent will complete, stamp, and sign the Registration and Title Application to confirm coverage. If the vehicle has a lien, make sure the lienholder's information is included on the application at this step.
Step 3: Gather All Required Documents
Before heading to the RMV, confirm you have the full document package: the signed RTA (stamped by your insurance agent), the assigned title, bill of sale if needed, odometer disclosure, lien release if applicable, and your identity documents.
Step 4: Visit an RMV Service Center
Take your completed application and all supporting documents to any RMV Service Center. No appointment is required for this transaction at most RMV locations; however, you should check the specific location's website for current policies, as some service centers may require appointments during peak times. At the service center, you will submit your documents, pay all applicable fees and taxes, and receive your registration certificate, new license plates, and an expiration decal on the spot.
Step 5: Pay Fees and Sales Tax
Payment is due at the time of your RMV visit. Sales tax is calculated at 6.25% of the greater of: (1) the stated purchase price, or (2) the NADA book value. This rate applies to standard private party sales; exemptions may apply for family transfers and gifts, and certain other qualifying transactions.
| Fee Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Title | $75.00 | Required for every title transaction |
| Sales Tax | 6.25% of purchase price or NADA book value | Whichever is higher applies |
| Registration Fee | Varies by plate type | See RMV Schedule of Fees |
| Duplicate Title | $25.00 | To replace a lost or damaged title |
| Gift Transfer Fee | $25.00 | For qualifying family gift transfers |
Step 6: Obtain a Vehicle Inspection
Before visiting the RMV, obtain a vehicle inspection sticker from a licensed Massachusetts inspection station. The inspection must be valid on the date you register the vehicle at the RMV; you cannot complete registration without proof of inspection. If your vehicle fails inspection within 7 days of purchase and repair costs exceed 10% of the purchase price, you may be entitled to a refund under the state's private party lemon law.
Step 7: Receive Your Certificate of Title
The RMV will mail the new Massachusetts Certificate of Title to the address on file approximately 6 to 8 weeks after the transaction is completed. If you have a loan on the vehicle, the title will be sent directly to your lienholder and held until the loan is paid off. Keep your registration certificate in the vehicle as proof of ownership in the meantime.
Contact Information
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
25 Newport Avenue Extension, Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
Phone: (857) 368-8000
Official Website: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
