Yes, a car title can have two owners in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) allows for co-ownership, which is typically indicated by using the word "and" or "or" between the owners' names on the title. This small grammatical distinction has significant legal ramifications, primarily concerning survivorship and the ability to sell the vehicle.
The most common method is listing owners with "or" (e.g., John Doe OR Jane Doe). This establishes a form of co-ownership where either owner has the full legal right to sell the vehicle or transfer the title without requiring the signature of the other owner. This is often the preferred choice for couples or family members for its simplicity.
Listing owners with "and" (e.g., John Doe AND Jane Doe) creates a different legal scenario. In this case, both owners are considered essential parties to any transaction. This means the signature of both owners is required to sell the car or transfer the title. This option is less common for typical consumer vehicles as it can complicate a future sale if one owner is unavailable or disagrees.
When applying for a title, you must specify your preferred co-ownership designation. The process involves completing the RMV-1 application form and presenting the required documents at an RMV service center. It's crucial to understand that a title is a legal document proving ownership. If there is an outstanding loan on the vehicle, the lienholder (the bank) will hold the title until the loan is paid off, and the owners will be listed on the accompanying registration.
| Consideration | "OR" on Title | "AND" on Title |
|---|
| Signature Requirement for Sale | Only one owner's signature is needed. | Signatures of both owners are required. |
| Survivorship Rights | The surviving owner automatically assumes full ownership. | The deceased owner's share becomes part of their estate, potentially requiring probate. |
| Ease of Transfer | Generally simpler and more straightforward. | Can be complex if one owner is uncooperative or unavailable. |
| Common Usage | Often used by married couples or family members. | Less common; sometimes used in business partnerships. |
If you are considering co-ownership, discuss the implications of "and" versus "or" with the other party to ensure you choose the arrangement that best fits your situation.
