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MassachusettsCar Registration
Bonus
Features
24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits
24-Hour Towing Service
24-Hour Mechanical First Aid
24-Hour Tire Change Service
Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.
Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.
Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.
Congratulations on your 60-dayRoadside Assistance membershipWhen out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.
Rental Car Discounts
24-Hour Lost Key Service
24-Hour Emergency Delivery
24-Hour Emergency Battery Service
Map Routing Service
Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.
If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.
A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.
Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.
We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.
Theft And Hit & Run Protection
A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.
Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you need to start your 60-day Roadside Assistance membership.
Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.
*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.
CONGRATULATIONS! Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online
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Table Of
Contents
Registration Insurance Requirements
Vehicle Registration
Renewing Your Vehicle Registration
License Plates
Updating Your Vehicle Registration
RMV Hours and Locations
Registering Your Vehicle in Massachusetts
Replacing Your Vehicle Registration
Vehicle Safety Tips
7
6
14
20
18
29
8
17
24
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Vehicle registration is an important step Massachusetts drivers must take in order to safely and legally operate a vehicle on state roads. With this guide, you will obtain all the necessary information regarding how to apply for your vehicle registration and how to maintain registration paperwork, as well as information about license plates and car insurance requirements. Whether you are looking to register a specific type of vehicle, renew your soon to be expired registration, replace a lost, stolen or damaged registration or update your current vehicle registration, we will provide you with all this information and more. Our purpose is to help you know exactly how to prepare properly by providing you with all the tools and information you may need from beginning to end in this process.
Vehicle
Registration
Vehicle registration is an important step Massachusetts drivers must take in order to safely and legally operate a vehicle on state roads.
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Registration Insurance
Requirements
You are required to obtain proper Massachusetts vehicle insurance before registering your vehicle. This is a necessary requirement in order to help reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road that can often result in high numbers of vehicle accidents. You can show your car registration if an officer or someone else asks you to present proof of your insurance. Before applying for your vehicle registration, you need to obtain liability insurance for your automobile. Vehicle insurance helps you and other drivers with the financial consequences of car accidents. If you are involved in a car accident, it is vital that your insurance company covers any damages or injuries you caused. Your auto insurance policy must cover all licensed family members, as well as any driver who may use your car.
The four minimum car insurance coverages you need to have in Massachusetts include:
Bodily injury to others:
• Injury per person: $20,000• Injury per accident: $40,000
Personal injury protection (PIP)
• Injury per person involved in an accident: $8,000
Bodily injury caused by an uninsured auto
• Injury per person: $20,000• Injury per accident: $40,000
Damage to someone else’s property
• Per accident: $5,000
You must acquire your vehicle liability insurance in Massachusetts, and the plan must meet the four minimum requirements established above. The insurance plan has to remain valid even when your car is not in use, meaning that the plan must be under your name while you own the vehicle. Likewise, your insurance ID card and vehicle registration need to be under the same name. If you do not keep your insurance coverage, you can face a suspension of driving privileges until your reinstate an insurance policy.
Whether you are registering a new, used, out-of-state or military vehicle, you should examine the specific instructions to register your car so you can make sure the process is as easy as possible. Review the outlined steps below to understand what exactly you must do in order to register your vehicle in Massachusetts and begin driving legally as soon as possible.
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Registering a Vehicle From a DealerWhen you purchase a car at a dealership, new or used, you typically do not have to worry about registering it since the dealership handles the process. Nevertheless, in case your dealership did not process the registration, or if you bought the automobile using a different method, you must register it yourself. To register a new vehicle in Massachusetts you must complete the following tasks:
Fill out the Application for Registration & Title form (RMV-1)• You must visit an insurance agent to obtain a policy and have the agent stamp the RMV-1 form.
Present the bill of sale along with one of three documents:• A certificate origin from the manufacturer (new vehicles only)• The former owner’s Certificate of Title or the Dealer Re-Assignment form• Prior vehicle registration if the car is exempt from titling requirements due to its age
Pay the required sales taxes, titling fees and license plate fees
Visit the closest RMV agency with all the required documentation
Registering Your Vehicle
In Massachusetts
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Fill out the Application for Registration & Title form (RMV-1)• You must visit an insurance agent to obtain
a policy and have the agent stamp the RMV-1 form.
Present the application with one of three documents:• A certificate origin from the manufacturer
(new vehicles only)• The former owner’s Certificate of Title or the
Dealer Re-Assignment form• Prior vehicle registration and bill of sale if
the car is exempt from titling requirements due to its age
Pay the required sales taxes, titling fees and license plate fees, if applicable
Visit the closest RMV agency with all the required documentation
When completing the registration in person at an RMV Service Center, you must pay the $75.00 titling fee, sales taxes and license plate fees, which can vary based on the type of plates purchased. You can make payments by check, money order or cash. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices. If you are presenting the certificate of origin or the former owner’s title, make sure the odometer reading, date sold, and purchase price are completed and signed on the back. You must complete this registration process no more than 10 days after purchase. Additionally, you must complete a vehicle inspection and get an inspection sticker not more than seven days after your purchase.
Registering a Vehicle From a Non-DealerIf you purchased your car from an individual or private party, you must make sure to complete the registration process. To register a used vehicle or a vehicle form a non-dealer in Massachusetts, you must complete the following tasks:
When submitting the form, you must make sure that the seller includes the mileage of the vehicle. Both you and the buyer must also sign the forms in the appropriate places. When completing the registration in person at an RMV Service Center, you must pay the $75.00 titling fee, sales taxes and license plate fees, which can vary based on the type of plates purchased. You can make payments by check, money order or cash. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices. You must complete this registration process no more than 10
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days after purchase. Additionally, you must complete a vehicle inspection and get an inspection sticker not more than seven days after your purchase. If you sold, lost or transferred your previous vehicle and then purchase another vehicle, you can transfer the old registration and license plates to your new car purchase. To make this transfer, you must do it within seven calendar days after losing ownership of your old vehicle. To learn more about this process, click here.
If the car is a gift or a family transfer, you must:
Complete Form MVU-26 (Affidavit in Support of a Claim for Exemption from Sales or Use Tax for a Motor Vehicle Transferred Within a Family).• For a gift, the person gifting the vehicle must
complete this form.
Fill out the Application for Registration & Title form (RMV-1)• You must visit an insurance agent to obtain
a policy and have the agent stamp the RMV-1 form.
Present the application with one of three documents:• A certificate origin from the manufacturer
(new vehicles only)• The former owner’s Certificate of Title or the
Dealer Re-Assignment form• Prior vehicle registration and bill of sale if
the car is exempt from titling requirements due to its age
Pay the required sales taxes, titling fees, transfer fees and license plate fees, if applicable.• Sales taxes are not required for gifts
between family members.
Visit the closest RMV agency with all the required documentation.
Present the previous owner certificate including the odometer reading, yours and the previous owner signatures, transfer date, and the word “GIFT” written on the purchase price. If you do not have that, present the bill of sale in case the car is exempt from titling fees.
You must complete this registration process no more than 10 days after purchase. Additionally, you must complete a vehicle inspection and get an inspection sticker not more than seven days after your purchase. If you sold, lost or transferred your previous vehicle and then purchase another vehicle, you can transfer the old registration and license plates to your new car purchase. To make this transfer, you must do it within seven calendar days after losing ownership of your old vehicle. To learn more about this process, click here.
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Registering an Out-Of-State VehicleIf you bought a new vehicle in a different state or a used vehicle that was previously registered in another state or country, you must complete the following tasks:
Fill out the Application for Registration & Title form (RMV-1)• You must visit an insurance agent to obtain a policy and have the agent stamp the RMV-1 form.
Present the bill of sale along with one of three documents:• A certificate origin from the manufacturer (new vehicles only)• The former owner’s Certificate of Title or the Dealer Re-Assignment form• Prior vehicle registration if the car is exempt from titling requirements due to its age
Pay the required sales taxes, titling fees and license plate fees
Visit the closest RMV agency with all the required documentation
You must complete this registration process no more than 10 days after purchase. Additionally, you must complete a vehicle inspection and get an inspection sticker not more than seven days after your purchase. If you sold, lost or transferred your previous vehicle and then purchase another vehicle, you can transfer the old registration and license plates to your new car purchase. To make this transfer, you must do it within seven calendar days after losing ownership of your old vehicle. To learn more about this process, click here.
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To transfer your out-of-state registration if you are moving to Massachusetts, you must:
Fill out and turn in Form MVU-29 (Affidavit in Support of a Claim for Exemption from Sales or Use Tax for a Motor Vehicle Purchased Outside of Massachusetts).
Fill out the Application for Registration & Title form (RMV-1).• You must visit an insurance agent to obtain
a policy and have the agent stamp the RMV-1 form.
Turn in current vehicle registration, if the car is exempt from titling requirements due to its age, or if the vehicle currently has a lienholder.
Submit the Certificate of Title, if there is no lienholder.
Bring prior vehicle registration.
Pay the required sales taxes, titling fees and license plate fees.
Visit the closest RMV agency with all the required documentation.
You must complete a vehicle inspection and get an inspection sticker not more than seven days after your transfer.
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Certificate of Title Fees: $75.00
Registration Gift Transfer Fee: $25.00
Registration Transfer Fee: $25.00
Registration for Military MembersRegistering a car in Massachusetts will be a little different if you are a military member. If your car was already registered and before you went to serve in the military, you can keep your registration as it is until you return. It is also required that you keep Massachusetts insurance on your car.
In case you are not a Massachusetts resident and your vehicle is not registered in the state, you are allowed to drive for 30 days with your out-of-state registration. If you are planning to stay more than 30 days, you are required to proceed with the registration process with the RMV.
FeesWhen completing the registration in person at an RMV Service Center, you must pay any necessary combination of transfer fees, titling fees, sales taxes and license plate fees, which can vary based on the type of plates purchased. You can make payments by check, money order or cash. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices.
Sales taxes are typically 6.25 percent, although purchases through a private seller or through a dealership that does not registered with the Department of Revenue have slightly different tax calculations. For such purchases, the calculation for sales tax uses 6.25 percent of the vehicles price of purchase or the trade-in value determined by the National Automotive Dealer Association, depending on which one is higher.
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Like your driver’s license, your vehicle registration requires regular renewal. Car registration expires every one to two years, depending on the types of plates you have on your automobile. Renewal fees can vary based on registration types, and you can examine the fees in depth here. When renewing, you must make sure your car insurance policy is current. The RMV sends out registration notices in the mail, and the notice will inform you if your policy is inactive. If you receive a notice that says your policy is not current, you must bring the registration renewal notice to your insurance agent and get a stamp as proof of an active policy. If you do not receive any renewal notice, it is possible that you have unpaid tickets, taxes or tolls. When it is time for renewal, you can use the myRMV portal to check the status of your license to see if you have any outstanding obligations. If you do not receive your renewal notice, you are still required to renew your car registration. The options below are available to process your renewal.
Renewing Your
Vehicle Registration
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By PhoneTo renew by phone, you can call the RMV Contact Center. If you complete this transaction by phone, you must:
To renew your vehicle registration, you can call one of the following numbers:
Have a valid debit or credit card to pay the fees.
857-368-8000 for area codes 339, 617, 781 and 857, or from outside Massachusetts
Have your registration/license plate number.
800-858-3926 for all other Massachusetts area codes
Give your name and address.
877-768-8833 for deaf or hard-of-hearing drivers in Massachusetts
By MailYou can only renew by mail if your renewal notice states so. If you received a renewal notice by mail, you may send your fees and documents to:
Registry of Motor Vehicles
Attention: Mail-In Registration Department
PO Box 55891
Boston, MA 02205-5891
You can make payments by cash or money order, made payable to MassDOT. Make sure you keep your renewal letter in a safe place for a list of instructions. The processing time for your new registration and decal is 10 business days.
If your renewal letter includes a phone ID number, you can call 866-MassRMV (866-627-7768). You must provide you phone ID and a credit or debit card for payment. The processing time for your new registration and decal is 10 business days.
OnlineOnline is the easiest way to get your vehicle registration renewed. Just click here to access the website and start your renewal process. To complete this transaction through
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myRMV, you must provide your email address, your driving license number and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. You must also have a debit or credit card to complete the transaction. The website will guide you through each of the steps you need to complete the form. The processing time for your new registration and decal is 10 business days.
In PersonYou can renew your registration in person by going to a local Massachusetts RMV agency. If you are an AAA member, some AAA offices offer RMV services. You will have to provide:
Your vehicle registration renewal application.
An acceptable payment method such as money order, check or credit/debit cards.
Your driver’s license as proof of identity.
Proof of Massachusetts car insurance, if requested.
To submit payment, you can use cash, check and money orders. Some offices may accept credit or debit cards. Make all checks payable to MassDOT. You should confirm accepted payment methods with the RMV location before visiting, as some locations may accept different payment methods. Your registration will be renewed immediately and you will get new decals for your vehicle along with a new registration certificate.
FeesFees for renewal will vary, depending on the type of license plates you have on your cars. Click here for a list of fees.
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Driving without your vehicle registration papers can lead to severe penalties and fines. If your registration documents are lost, stolen or damaged, you may request a duplicate online, in person or by phone.
In PersonYou can visit your nearest Massachusetts RMV agency and request for a duplicate registration. You must bring your vehicle owner information and your vehicle registration number. To pay the $25.00 replacement fee, you can use cash and check or money order made payable to MassDOT. Some offices may accept credit or debit cards. Confirm accepted payment methods with the RMV location before visiting, as some locations may accept different payment methods.
By PhoneTo replace your vehicle registration by phone, you can call one of the following numbers:
You will have to pay the $25 replacement fee with a debit or credit card. You need to provide you driver’s license number and your registration number to complete this transaction.
OnlineIf you need to order replacement car registration paperwork, you can order the documents online through the myRMV page. When placing this request, you must provide your license number, your email address and your vehicle registration number. You must provide a credit card or debit card for the $25.00 payment. When ordering replacement registration through myRMV, you can print your new registration or wait for the registration in the mail. The documents will ship out in seven to 10 days.
Replacing Your
Vehicle Registration
857-368-8000 for area codes 339, 617, 781 and 857, or from outside Massachusetts
800-858-3926 for all other Massachusetts area codes
877-768-8833 for deaf or hard-of-hearing drivers in Massachusetts
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If you change your name or move to a new place of residence, it is important that you make the necessary changes to your car registration. If you are changing information on your registration, you may also need to change information on your certificate of title. To make these registration changes, you must speak with your insurance agent and complete the application for amendment of registration, also known as the RMV-3 form. You agent will stamp the form in the required areas as proof of an updated policy. You should make sure to include the information for all drivers listed on the registration, even if they do not need to make changes. On the form, you can indicate the reasons for the change. You and any other owners must sign the RMV-3.
Updating Your
Vehicle Registration
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By MailOnce you complete the RMV-3 form, you can send the form and an amendment fee for $25.00 to:
Registry of Motor Vehicles
Attn: Mail In Registration
PO Box 55891
Boston, MA 02205-5891
To pay the fee, you must submit a check or money order made payable to MassDOT. The RMV will mail out your new registration to the address on file.
In PersonYou may amend your vehicle registration in person at a participating RMV Service Center. You must bring the completed RMV-3 document and bring an accepted method of payment for the $25.00 registration amendment fee. You can make payments by cash or check or money made payable to MassDOT. Some offices may even accept credit or debit card payments. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices. Some offices may not offer full RMV services, so it is important that you verify that the office is able to process your amended registration request.
Registration Address ChangeIf you move to a new place of residence within Massachusetts, you must inform the RMV within 30 days of the move. You can make the address update online or by phone. If you do not order a duplicate registration, you may simply put an updated address label on your registration over the old information, or you may cover up the address with a blank sticker or label and then write in the new information. You can order a duplication registration as needed.
OnlineTo make the address change online, you must go to the myRMV portal and provide your email address, your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. One you make your address change, you can order a duplicate registration through the myRMV portal, by phone or in person at an RMV office.
By PhoneYou can also update your address information by phone. To make the address update through this method, you can call one of the following numbers for RMV services:
857-368-8000 for area codes 339, 617, 781 and 857, or from outside Massachusetts
800-858-3926 for all other Massachusetts area codes
877-768-8833 for deaf or hard-of-hearing drivers in Massachusetts
To update your address by phone, you must provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number, your driver’s license number, your current address and your name. One you make your address change, you can order a duplicate registration through the myRMV portal, by phone or in person at an RMV office.
Registration Name ChangeIf you recently changed you name due to marriage, divorce or court order, you must visit your closest RMV service center and inform them of your name change. When visiting the RMV office, you must take a new photo and provide a new signature. You are not required to present any documentation as long as you are not attempting to defraud. Once you complete the change of name, you can request new RMV documents, including your registration. Confirm accepted payment methods and services with the RMV location before visiting to prevent a delay for the amendment process.
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When you register your vehicle, the RMV assigns a license plate number to you. For a passenger vehicle, you will receive two license plates, one for the front and one for the back of the vehicle.
License
Plates
When you complete the registration process or renew your registration, the RMV will give you a decal that you must attach to the license plate as proof of current registration. The decal has the expiration date of your registration and must be up to date at all times. Besides the regular Massachusetts license plates, you can order specialty plates or vanity plates. Specialty plates are plates that have a specific theme or cause, such as professional associations, sports teams, universities and environmental organizations. You can obtain your regular and certain specialty license plates at any of the MA RMV offices across the state. Other plates, such as the Congressional Medal of Honor plates, may only be available through specific branches, like the Special Plates Department. To learn more about specialty license plates, click here for the License Plate Manual.
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Replacing License PlatesIt is important that you always have legible license plates on your car, as your license plate serves as a form of identification to the authorities. If your license plate is lost, stolen or defaced, you may request a new one at a RMV office or by phone. The RMV will issue a temporary license plate for your vehicle while you wait for your permanent plates to arrive by mail.
The RMV issues two license plates for passenger cars. If you lose the plate on the front of your car, you can create a temporary plate with your original license plate number. You must put this temporary plate on the front of your car. If you lose the plate attached to the rear of your vehicle, place the front plate on the back of your car, and you must create a temporary front license plate. You must order a replacement decal as soon as possible for your vehicle.
In Person
You can go to the Massachusetts RMV agency and request a duplicate license plate. You must provide your registration number, payment and vehicle owner information. If you need to replace both plates at once, you must make the request in person. You will receive a provisionary license plate until the permanent one arrives. The replacement fee is $10.00, payable by which you can pay by cash, money order or check made payable to MassDOT. Some offices may even accept credit or debit card payments. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices. If you wish to swap standard license plates that are no longer legible, you can do this in person at an RMV office at no additional fee.
Swap Plates
If you need to swap license plates to change plate types or plate numbers, you must complete a slightly different transaction. To swap plates, you must fill out an RMV-3 form with the appropriate information and stamps from your insurance agent. You must then visit an RMV office to surrender your old plates and complete the transaction. Your fees will vary based on the type of plate ordered. The
fees are payable by cash, money order or check made payable to MassDOT. Some offices may even accept credit or debit card payments. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices.
By Phone
To request a replacement license plate by phone, you can call one of the following numbers for RMV services:
857-368-8000 for area codes 339, 617, 781 and 857, or from outside Massachusetts
800-858-3926 for all other Massachusetts area codes
877-768-8833 for deaf or hard-of-hearing drivers in Massachusetts
To make the $10.00 payment, you must have a credit card or debit card to complete the transaction.
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Getting Custom PlatesVanity plates are used for different vehicles types like commercial, motorcycle, livery, private passenger, antiques and camper vehicles. Your custom plate must be unique and it must meet RMV requirements. For example, you cannot use your customized plate number to display an inappropriate word. You may click here to check the availability of your license plate number.
If the vanity plate you desire is available, you can go to the closest RMV office, present the Request for Vanity Plates form and pay standard plate registration fees, plus a $50 manufacturing fee. When you make your payment at the time of the order, you can submit the fees by cash, money order or check made payable to MassDOT. Some offices may even accept credit or debit card payments. Make sure to check with the RMV office for accepted methods of payment, as procedures can vary between offices.
The processing time is typically 12 to 14 weeks, and after this time, you should receive a letter that details where to pick up your custom plates. When you go to the RMV branch, you must complete the transaction to swap license plates. You must bring an RMV-3 form stamped by your insurance company, your old plates and payment for the fees. The vanity plate will remain at the RMV branch for 90 days.
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Canceling Registration & Surrendering License PlatesIf you are moving out of state, you must cancel your registration, although you do not need to surrender your plates. Cancelling registration also applies when you sell your car and you do not transfer the registration and plates to another car. Additionally, if you swap out license plates and registration you must also surrender your old plates to the RMV during the process. When cancelling registration, you must destroy the plates and throw out or recycle your plates. If the recycling center in your areas accepts the destroyed plates, you may dispose of them at the location. Do not dispose of your plates before cutting the plates in half or otherwise destroying them.
In Person
You can go to the closest Massachusetts RMV agency and cancel your registration. To complete this task, you must provide your address, your name and the vehicle’s license plate number. If the vehicle has two owners, you must fill out and submit the Affidavit for Cancellation of Registration form. If you are cancelling on behalf of another owner, you must also fill out the same affidavit and provide proof of identity. After cancelling your registration, you will receive a receipt that you can use to provide proof of cancellation.
Driver’s license number
Social Security Number
A FID number, if the car is registered to a corporation or company
After completing the cancellation, you can print a receipt to use as proof for your insurance company.
Online
You can cancel registration online through the RMV service center page. You may only cancel online if there is only one owner listed on the vehicle, otherwise you must cancel in person at an RMV location. To complete this transaction online, you must provide your email address and the license plate number. You must also provide one of the following:
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Vehicle Safety
Tips
Before getting behind the wheel, it is important that your vehicle be prepared for a trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive.
Emergency KitOne of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, first-aid kit, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves and socks, and a shovel.
Inclement Driving WeatherWhen dealing with snow or icy conditions during winter, you must take extra precautions when driving. Even rainy weather can create hazardous driving situations. Consider the below tips below to drive safely during inclement weather.
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Do Not Rush!
Ice, snow and rain can create slippery and dangerous roads. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for an appointment. You should also slow down further back than you might normally do in favorable weather conditions so you can avoid abrupt and dangerous stops or turns.
Do Not Panic If You Skid or Slip
In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. You must also gently steer your vehicle in the direction you need to go. You must not make sharp wheel turns or brake suddenly. Following this advice will prevent you from spinning further out of control.
Check Your Vehicle
Before you leave your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. You should make sure your tires are not worn down are too smooth, as poor tire tread can cause an accident. If you need to, you can replace your tires during the winter with snow tires or add snow chains to help provide safe driving conditions. It is also important that you remove all ice and snow from your car before you begin driving. You should never leave your windows icy or covered in snow, as this can obstruct your vision.
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Drinking and DrivingDriving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a dangerous situation that can kill or severely injure drivers and passengers alike. You can prevent a tragedy by planning ahead and making responsible choices. Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If he or she also becomes intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. If you need to stop someone from driving while intoxicated, take away his or her keys and call for alternative transportation.
If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, breaking erratically or turning abruptly – call 911 and contact authorities immediately. Make sure to avoid impaired drivers on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until the driver is at a safe distance from your car.
Phone UseDriving while using your cellphone is incredibly dangerous. Distracted driving can cause accidents, injury and death. Massachusetts legislation bans texting while driving, but you may make phone calls if you have one hand on the wheel. Drivers younger than 18 years of age cannot use cellphones or hands-free devices at all while driving, unless it is an emergency. School bus operators cannot use cell phones when driving their work vehicle. The safest way to use your cell phone while traveling is pulling over and coming to a complete stop or waiting until you get to your destination. Additionally, you can use a hands-free device to make calls while operating a vehicle. Click here for more information on cellphone use while driving in Massachusetts.
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Things to AvoidDriving is not always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and dangerous to you while driving on the road. Read the below tips to see potential behaviors and actions that can help you improve your driving experience.
Car Accidents
One way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive. You should perform routine maintenance on things like your brakes, tires and steering. Tires may lose traction or inflation and you can easily lose control of your vehicle. You should also check to see that your brakes are functioning correctly or if the brakes need any maintenance or replacement. You can take your vehicle to a mechanic or car dealership to make sure everything runs smoothly and safely.
Wasting Gas
If you drive often, start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. You should avoid sudden acceleration and excessive speeding to make the most of your gasoline. Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well tuned and that you use the correct type of fuel in your vehicle.
Aggressive Driving
Some drivers may exhibit dangerous and aggressive behavior while driving. Some of these aggressive driving tactics can include verbal or physical harassment of another motorist and unsafe vehicle operation. Aggressive driving can lead to reckless and dangerous behavior that can cause serious injuries on the road. Drivers should pay close attention to the road and avoid aggressive drivers when possible.
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Affidavit for Cancellation of Registration
Affidavit in Support of a Claim for Exemption from Sales or Use Tax for a Motor Vehicle Transferred Within a Family (MVU-26)
Affidavit in Support of a Claim for Exemption from Sales or Use Tax for a Motor Vehicle Purchased Outside of Massachusetts (MVU-29)
Application for Registration & Title form (RMV-1)
License Plate Manual
Request for Vanity Plates
RMV-3
Official Forms
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RMV
Hours and Locations
To locate an RMV office near you, you can sue the RMV’s locator tool. With this tool, you can see the services each office provides, accepted methods of payment and office hours.
To speak with the RMV Contact Center by phone, you can choose from the list below, depending or you location or needs:
857-368-8000 for area codes 339, 617, 781 and 857, or from outside Massachusetts
800-858-3926 for all other Massachusetts area codes
877-768-8833 for deaf or hard-of-hearing customers in Massachusetts
857-368-9455 to contact the Ombudsman’s office
You may only call the Contact Center Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Contact Center is closed on holidays.
To contact an RMV department by mail, click here for the addresses for each department.
To contact the RMV by email, you can fill out the feedback form online here.
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