How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in Massachusetts in 2025?

Factors That Influence the Total License Plate Cost in Massachusetts

The cost of obtaining a license plate in Massachusetts is influenced by several factors, including the type of vehicle, the type of license plate, and any additional services or customizations requested. Below are the primary factors that contribute to the total cost:

• Vehicle Type: Different fees apply depending on whether the vehicle is a passenger car, motorcycle, commercial vehicle, or trailer.
• Plate Type: Standard plates, specialty plates, and personalized plates each have different fee structures.
• Registration Period: The length of the registration period can affect the cost, with options typically available for one or two years.
• Additional Fees: Administrative fees, such as those for processing or mailing, may also apply.

Specialty License Plates in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a variety of specialty license plates that allow vehicle owners to support causes or organizations. These plates often come with additional fees, which typically include:

• Initial Issuance Fee: Ranges from $20 to $100, depending on the plate.
• Annual Renewal Fee: An additional fee, often between $20 and $40, is required each year to maintain the specialty plate.
• Contribution to Cause: A portion of the fee is usually directed to the cause or organization associated with the plate.

Examples of specialty plates include those supporting environmental causes, universities, and charitable organizations.

Personalized License Plates in Massachusetts

Personalized license plates allow vehicle owners to create a custom message or combination of letters and numbers. The costs associated with personalized plates include:

• Initial Fee: $50 for the personalization service.
• Annual Renewal Fee: $50, in addition to the standard registration renewal fee.
• Restrictions: Personalized plates must adhere to specific guidelines regarding character length and content appropriateness.

Massachusetts License Plate Renewal Fee

Renewing a license plate in Massachusetts involves paying a renewal fee, which varies based on the type of vehicle and plate. The standard renewal fees are as follows:

• Passenger Vehicles: $60 for a one-year renewal.
• Motorcycles: $20 for a one-year renewal.
• Commercial Vehicles: Fees vary based on weight and type, starting at $100.
• Specialty and Personalized Plates: Additional fees apply as outlined in their respective sections.

Massachusetts License Plate Replacements Fee

In the event that a license plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement can be obtained for a fee. The replacement fees are:

• Standard Plate Replacement: $10 per plate.
• Specialty Plate Replacement: $20 per plate.
• Personalized Plate Replacement: $20 per plate.

Vehicle owners must report lost or stolen plates to the local police department before applying for a replacement.

How Much Is the Tag Transfer Fee in Massachusetts

When transferring a license plate from one vehicle to another, a tag transfer fee is applicable. The fee structure is as follows:

• Tag Transfer Fee: $25 for transferring a plate to a new vehicle.
• Additional Registration Fees: Any difference in registration fees between the old and new vehicle types must be paid.

Exemptions and Discounts

Certain exemptions and discounts are available for license plate fees in Massachusetts, primarily for specific groups or under certain conditions:

• Veterans and Active Military: Eligible for reduced fees or free plates, depending on service status and type of plate.
• Senior Citizens: May qualify for reduced registration fees.
• Low-Income Individuals: Some programs offer assistance or reduced fees for qualifying individuals.
• Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: May be eligible for reduced fees or special plates promoting environmental benefits.

These exemptions and discounts are subject to verification and may require additional documentation to qualify.