How to Renew Motor Vehicle Registration in Massachusetts?
Vehicle registration renewal is required for all Massachusetts residents to maintain legal driving privileges and vehicle compliance. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) oversees the Commonwealth's vehicle registration system and processes all registration renewals through multiple service channels. Massachusetts law requires all motor vehicles operated on public ways to display valid registration and current registration plates.
Massachusetts Vehicle Registration Renewal Requirements
Essential Documentation and Requirements
Massachusetts vehicle owners must satisfy the following requirements when renewing their registration:
- Valid Vehicle Insurance: Proof of current Massachusetts automobile insurance meeting minimum liability coverage requirements ($20,000 bodily injury per person, $40,000 bodily injury per accident, $5,000 property damage)
- Vehicle Identification: Registration renewal notice, Massachusetts registration number, or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Payment Method: Credit card, debit card, check, money order, or cash for in-person transactions
- Excise Tax Compliance: All outstanding motor vehicle excise tax bills must be paid
- Safety Inspection: Current Massachusetts vehicle safety and emissions inspection sticker
Renewal Timeline and Grace Period
- Renewal Period: Registration renewal notices are mailed approximately 60 days before expiration
- Expiration Date: Registrations expire on the date shown on the registration document
- Grace Period: Massachusetts law does not provide a grace period for expired registrations
- Operating with Expired Registration: Constitutes a civil motor vehicle infraction subject to citation
- New Residents: Must register within 30 days of establishing Massachusetts residency
How Much Is Car Registration Renewal in Massachusetts in 2025
2025 Massachusetts Vehicle Registration Fee Schedule
The following table shows registration fees for vehicles:
| Vehicle Type | Registration Period | Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Vehicles (Private Use) | 2 Years | $100.00 |
| Passenger Vehicles (Private Use) | 1 Year | $30.00 |
| Motorcycles | 2 Years | $40.00 |
| Motorcycles | 1 Year | $20.00 |
| Antique Passenger Vehicles | Permanent | $70.00 |
| Antique Motorcycles | Permanent | $50.00 |
Commercial and Special Vehicle Registration Fees
Commercial vehicles and special classifications are assessed fees based on vehicle type, weight, and usage:
| Vehicle Classification | Registration Period | Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Vehicles (8,000 lbs. or less) | 1 Year | $60.00 |
| Commercial Vehicles (8,001 - 12,000 lbs.) | 1 Year | $90.00 |
| Commercial Vehicles (12,001 - 16,000 lbs.) | 1 Year | $120.00 |
| Commercial Vehicles (16,001 - 20,000 lbs.) | 1 Year | $150.00 |
| Commercial Vehicles (20,001 - 24,000 lbs.) | 1 Year | $180.00 |
| Commercial Vehicles (24,001 - 28,000 lbs.) | 1 Year | $210.00 |
| Trailers (Private Use) | 2 Years | $30.00 |
| Trailers (Commercial Use) | 1 Year | $30.00 |
Additional Mandatory Fees
Registration transactions include the following state-mandated fees:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Vehicle Registration | $60.00 | Two-year registration period |
| Title Fee | $75.00 | If title transaction required |
| Plate Transfer Fee | $15.00 | When transferring plates to different vehicle |
| Duplicate Registration | $25.00 | Replacement of lost registration |
| Duplicate Plate | $25.00 | Per plate replacement |
Additional Cost Considerations
Municipal Excise Tax: Assessed annually by municipality based on vehicle value. Excise tax rates are $25.00 per $1,000 of vehicle valuation. Contact your municipal tax collector for specific excise tax amounts.
Inspection Costs: Vehicle inspection fees are set by inspection stations and typically range from $35.00 to $60.00 for combined safety and emissions inspection.
How To Renew Vehicle Registration Online in Massachusetts
Online Renewal Platforms
The Massachusetts RMV provides online registration renewal services through the official RMV portal. Online renewal is the most efficient method for eligible vehicle owners to complete registration renewal transactions.
RMV Online Services Portal
The Massachusetts RMV Online Services platform provides secure registration renewal with immediate confirmation and digital documentation. Online renewal is available 24 hours daily for eligible registrations.
MyRMV Mobile Application
The MyRMV mobile application provides registration renewal services through iOS and Android devices. The mobile application offers the same functionality as the online portal with optimized mobile interface.
Online Renewal Eligibility
Online renewal is available for registrations meeting the following criteria:
- Registration is not expired for more than 12 months
- No outstanding excise tax obligations
- Current Massachusetts vehicle inspection on record
- Valid insurance coverage verified through electronic verification system
- No holds or restrictions on registration record
- Standard passenger vehicle, motorcycle, or trailer registration
Online Renewal Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility and Gather Information
Confirm eligibility for online renewal and prepare the following information:
- Massachusetts registration plate number
- Date of birth of registered owner
- Last four digits of Social Security Number or RMV Customer ID Number
- Current email address for confirmation receipt
- Payment method (credit or debit card)
Step 2: Access RMV Online Services
Navigate to the RMV Online Services portal and select "Renew Your Registration" from the available services menu. The system will prompt for vehicle and owner identification information.
Step 3: Enter Vehicle and Owner Information
Enter registration plate number and owner identification information as prompted. The system will retrieve registration record and verify eligibility for online renewal. If eligibility requirements are not met, the system will provide specific information about renewal restrictions.
Step 4: Verify Insurance and Inspection Status
The RMV system electronically verifies current insurance coverage through the Commonwealth's electronic insurance verification system. The system also confirms current vehicle inspection status through Vehicle Check Program records. Both requirements must be satisfied before proceeding with renewal.
Step 5: Review Registration Information
Verify all registration information displayed is accurate and current. Update address information if necessary through the online portal. Confirm registration period selection (one-year or two-year renewal where applicable).
Step 6: Calculate and Review Fees
The system will calculate total renewal fees based on vehicle classification and registration period. Review all fees before proceeding to payment. The fee summary will display all applicable charges.
Step 7: Submit Payment
Enter payment information using accepted credit or debit card. The RMV accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. A convenience fee is assessed for online credit card transactions.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation and Documentation
Upon successful payment processing, the system will generate a confirmation receipt with transaction details. The confirmation receipt serves as proof of registration renewal. Download and save the electronic confirmation receipt for vehicle records.
Registration Sticker Delivery: The RMV will mail the new registration sticker and registration certificate to the address on record within 10 business days. The confirmation receipt serves as temporary proof of valid registration until the registration sticker is received and affixed to the vehicle.
Alternative Renewal Methods
Mail-In Renewal
Vehicle owners may renew registration by mail by submitting the following documents to the RMV:
- Completed registration renewal notice with payment
- Personal check or money order payable to "Massachusetts RMV"
- Proof of current Massachusetts vehicle inspection
- Proof of insurance (if requested)
Mail renewal documents to:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 55889, Boston, MA 02205-5889
Processing time for mail-in renewals is approximately 10 to 15 business days from receipt of complete application.
In-Person Renewal
Vehicle owners may complete registration renewal in person at RMV Service Centers. Bring the following documents:
- Registration renewal notice or current registration
- Government-issued photo identification (Massachusetts driver's license or state-issued ID)
- Proof of current vehicle inspection
- Proof of insurance
- Payment for renewal fees (credit card, debit card, check, money order, or cash)
Locate RMV Service Centers using the RMV Service Center Locator. Service center hours and appointment availability vary by location. The RMV recommends scheduling appointments through the RMV Appointment System for faster service.
AAA Member Renewal Services
AAA members may complete registration renewal at participating AAA branch locations throughout Massachusetts. AAA provides registration renewal services as an authorized RMV service provider. Contact your local AAA branch to confirm service availability and required documentation.
Contact Information
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
136 Blackstone Street, Boston, MA 02112
Phone: (857) 368-8000
Official Website: Massachusetts RMV
RMV Contact Center
Phone: (857) 368-8000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
