How to Get Auto Insurance and Register Your Vehicle in Massachusetts

Whether you purchase a new vehicle, move to Massachusetts from another state, or even inherit a car, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is properly registered and has auto insurance. Unlike some states, Massachusetts doesn’t provide a grace period for vehicle registration upon moving. You must register your vehicle as soon as you become a resident. If you plan to transfer the registration from your old car to one you purchase from a dealer or individual, you only have a 7-day grace period from the date you dispose of your previous vehicle. At first glance, the process of registering a vehicle in Massachusetts can seem complicated. Our guide can help you learn the process, important facts, and cost to properly register your vehicle in the Bay State.

Obtain Massachusetts Auto Insurance

Massachusetts ranks second in the nation for the fewest number of uninsured drivers, with only 3.5% of drivers uninsured. A big reason for this admirable number is the strict laws surrounding auto insurance in Massachusetts. In order to register your vehicle, you’ll need proof of insurance. Before visiting the Registry of Motor Vehicles, stop by a local independent insurance agency to determine the auto insurance coverage that best fits your lifestyle.

To find the best rates, it’s helpful to compare insurance companies. This can be accomplished by comparing quotes online. Or, to save time, you can turn over the job of quote comparison to an independent insurance agent. The agents at LoPriore work with several insurance companies to provide our customers with the most competitive rates available.

Register Your Vehicle With the Massachusetts RMV

Once you purchase an insurance policy, you’re ready to register your vehicle. Before you visit the RMV, make sure you have everything you need to successfully complete your registration.

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What You Need for Auto Insurance

• Registration and Title Application: This document is used for all registration transactions, including out-of-state vehicle transfers and new vehicle registration. The application can be downloaded, or you can pick it up from the RMV in person. It’s essential to complete all relevant information, including a signature from your auto insurance provider. The form will also include information about other documents that may be necessary, like your lien holder information.
• Valid ID: Acceptable documents include a state-issued driver’s license, a Massachusetts identification, or social security number.
• Proof of Insurance: Your registration and title application include a section for your auto insurance information and an insurance stamp and signature.
• Proof of Ownership: Your title typically serves as proof of ownership. If you financed the vehicle, the title would remain with your lien holder until you pay off the car. In this case, your registration will suffice.
• Required Fees: The certificate of title fee is $75, and the base registration fee is $60. Unless other costs apply, you can expect to pay a total of around $135.

Once your application and accompanying documents have been processed, you’ll receive your vehicle registration and plates. The certificate of title will be processed and mailed to you in 6 – 8 weeks. If a lien exists on the vehicle, the title goes to the financing company.

Get an Inspection

Once your registration is complete, you have 7 calendar days to get your vehicle inspected. All vehicles registered in Massachusetts must pass a yearly inspection. The inspection typically costs $35 but could be more for a commercial vehicle.

Massachusetts has 1,800 licensed inspection stations. To find a station near you, search the online Inspection Station Locator. If your vehicle passes inspection, you’ll receive a vehicle inspection sticker that is good for one year. A temporary “fail” sticker will be issued if you fail the inspection. When this occurs, drivers have 60 days to complete repairs and have the vehicle re-inspected.

9 Things to Know About Registering Your Vehicle in Massachusetts

Most people think of vehicle registration as something to take care of when you move or buy a new car. However, if you inherit a vehicle or purchase a used car from an individual in a personal sale, you’ll still need to complete the registration process. These tips can help you navigate unexpected challenges when registering your vehicle in Massachusetts.

• When you purchase a vehicle from a car dealership, the dealer will most likely complete your Registration & Title Application form. However, it is still your responsibility to take the form to your insurer for a valid insurance stamp and signature.
• Along with the seller’s and buyer’s name and address, your Certificate of Title should include the vehicle’s purchase price, the date of purchase, and the odometer reading.
• If your vehicle was purchased out of state and registered in another state for more than 6 months, you are exempt from paying Massachusetts sales tax.
• Passenger vehicles with model years of 1980 and older, purchased before November 26, 1990, are exempt from titling.
• If you do not have a title because of age exemption, the previous owner’s registration and bill of sale will be needed for registration.
• If the purchase price of the vehicle doesn’t appear on the title, you will also need a bill of sale.
• When the owner of a vehicle is deceased, a surviving spouse, a personal representative of the estate, or a court-appointed representative can transfer the title.
• In the event you inherit a vehicle, you must present a copy of the appointment of the personal representative and the decedent’s certificate of title signed by the personal representative.
• While drop-in appointments are available in the early mornings and late afternoons, it’s recommended that you make an appointment to avoid long wait times when registering your vehicle.

Conclusion

Proper registration for your vehicle is important to avoid expensive fines and penalties. The first step to getting your vehicle registered in Massachusetts is obtaining the right auto insurance policy. Auto insurance is a valuable investment that can help protect you and your vehicle. Get in touch with the independent agents at LoPriore Insurance to learn more about how to get the insurance that fits your lifestyle at a price you can afford.