RMV
Vehicle and License Transaction Assistance
Navigating the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Explore our resources and tips for handling these and other common RMV transactions.
Vehicle Registration
Learn how to register/cancel, transfer plates, and complete your registration.
Buying & Selling Vehicles
Learn what is needed when you buy and sell a vehicle. Documents like the title, bill of sale, gift forms, etc.
License and SDIP
Learn insurance for new drivers, SDIP, and how your driving record effects your policy.
“The RMV is a precision instrument—until you fill out your paperwork wrong.”
Buying a Vehicle
From a dealership
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In Massachusetts, dealerships that are part of the DRIVE (Direct Registry Internet Vehicle Entry) program have the ability to process vehicle registrations and titles directly with the RMV on behalf of their customers.
When you purchase a vehicle from a dealer that is part of the DRIVE program, they will prepare the RMV Registration and Title Application (RTA) and send it to our office for an insurance stamp. Once we send this back to them, they will handle the registration of your new vehicle and we will add it to your insurance policy
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If you purchase a vehicle from a dealership that is not part of the DRIVE program you will need to register the vehicle yourself at the RMV.
Our office can prepare the RMV Registration and Title Application (RTA) for you; it will need to be stamped by our office. If this is the case, please provide us with:
Copy of front and back of title (signed over to you)
Bill of sale showing at least the (1) Sale Date (2) Seller Name (3) Buyer Name and (3) Purchase Price
Once complete we will give you a completed RTA. Bring this to the RMV along with the bill of sale and title to register your vehicle.
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When the sale is private, not through a dealership, you will need to register the vehicle yourself at the RMV.
Our office can prepare the RMV Registration and Title Application (RTA) for you; it will need to be stamped by our office. If this is the case, please provide us with:
Copy of front and back of title (signed over to you)
Bill of sale showing at least the (1) Sale Date (2) Seller Name (3) Buyer Name and (3) Purchase Price
Once complete we will give you a completed RTA. Bring this to the RMV along with the bill of sale and title to register your vehicle.
Was your new vehicle a gift?
When a vehicle is gifted to a family member or friend in Massachusetts, the recipient is typically exempt from paying sales tax during the registration process. To qualify for the exemption, an MVU-24 or MVU-26 form (Affidavit in Support of a Claim for Exemption from Sales or Use Tax for a Motor Vehicle) must be completed and submitted at the time of registration. These forms verify the nature of the gift and ensure compliance with RMV requirements. Be sure to bring the completed MVU form, the signed title, and a Registration and Title Application (RTA) when visiting the RMV.
Vehicle Registration
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Visit the RMV’s website to cancel your registration. Once complete, you will be provided with a Plate/Registration Return Receipt. Please forward this to our office so we can remove the vehicle from you auto insurance policy.
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If you just purchased a vehicle, please see above for details.
To register a vehicle you already own you’ll need a completed Registration and Title Application (RTA). We can assist you in filling out this form accurately and ensuring all necessary information is included. You will need to bring (1) this completed RTA, (2) title, and (3) bill of sale, to the RMV to register your vehicle.
Homemade Trailers
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If your homemade trailer exceeds a GVW of 3,000 pounds, you’ll need to obtain a Massachusetts-assigned VIN. This involves scheduling an inspection with the Massachusetts State Police to verify the trailer’s specifications and ensure it meets safety standards. It is required that these trailers be titled in Massachusetts.
If your trailer’s GVW is 3,000 pounds or less, a VIN may not be required, but it’s advisable to check with the RMV for specific requirements. These trailers are exempt from titling in Massachusetts.
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Documentation such as a bill of sale or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (for new trailers) to establish ownership may be required by the RMV when registering.
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In Massachusetts, trailers can typically be insured under your auto policy, providing liability coverage when attached to a covered vehicle. However, physical damage coverage (collision and comprehensive) for the trailer itself often requires an additional endorsement. It’s important to review your policy and discuss options with your insurance agent to ensure your trailer is fully protected, especially for high-value or custom trailers.
License & SDIP
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New drivers in Massachusetts start with a neutral driving record (SDIP step 0), meaning no surcharges or discounts apply. It’s crucial for new drivers to maintain a clean driving record to avoid costly surcharges and to eventually qualify as a “Perfect Driver” (SDIP step 99) after six years of incident-free driving. New drivers are typically more expensive to insure due to their limited driving history and higher perceived risk. Staying accident- and violation-free can help lower insurance costs over time and open up better options in the voluntary market.
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Massachusetts’ Safe Driver Insurance Plan (SDIP) assigns points for at-fault accidents and traffic violations, which can increase your insurance rates and limit your options in the voluntary market. If you accumulate too many points, you may need to be placed in the Massachusetts Auto Insurance Plan (MAIP), a state-run program for high-risk drivers. Keeping a clean driving record helps maintain lower rates and broader coverage options.
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In Massachusetts, the Safe Driver Insurance Plan (SDIP) categorizes at-fault accidents based on the claim amount:
Minor At-Fault Accident: Claim payment over $1,000 and up to $5,000; results in 3 surcharge points.
Major At-Fault Accident: Claim payment over $5,000; results in 4 surcharge points.
These points can increase your auto insurance premiums and may affect your eligibility for certain insurance programs.
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Being canceled for non-payment on an auto insurance policy in Massachusetts can severely limit your options in the voluntary market. This often leads to placement in the Massachusetts Auto Insurance Plan (MAIP). To avoid higher premiums and fewer options, it’s essential to maintain consistent payments and keep your policy in good standing.