Yes, a resident of Massachusetts can absolutely buy a car in New Hampshire. It's a common practice, but the process involves a few key steps you must handle yourself to register and title the vehicle in your home state of Massachusetts. The most critical point is that you will pay Massachusetts' 6.25% sales tax when you register the car, not New Hampshire's (which has no general sales tax). You'll be responsible for coordinating the paperwork between the NH dealer (or private seller) and your Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
The process differs slightly depending on whether you buy from a dealer or a private party. A dealership in New Hampshire will typically handle much of the paperwork. They will provide you with the title (often called a "pink slip") properly assigned to you, a bill of sale, and an application for Massachusetts registration. You then take these documents to your local MA RMV to complete the registration, pay the state sales tax, and get your Massachusetts license plates.
If you buy from a private seller in New Hampshire, you need to be more diligent. Ensure you receive the properly signed title and a detailed bill of sale. You must then obtain a VIN verification, which can be done by your local Massachusetts police department or at some RMV locations, to confirm the vehicle's identity before registration.
Here’s a quick comparison of key requirements:
| Requirement | Buying from a NH Dealer | Buying from a NH Private Seller |
|---|
| Sales Tax | Paid at MA RMV (6.25%) | Paid at MA RMV (6.25%) |
| Title Transfer | Dealer handles assignment | You and seller complete together |
| Key Documents | Dealer-provided title, bill of sale, RMV-1 form | Signed title, bill of sale from owner |
| VIN Verification | Often included by dealer | Your responsibility to arrange in MA |
| Registration | Final step at MA RMV with all documents | Final step at MA RMV with all documents |
Before you go, contact your insurance company to get a policy binder for the new vehicle, as proof of insurance is mandatory for registration in Massachusetts. Also, check the Massachusetts vehicle inspection rules; a New Hampshire inspection is not valid, and you must get the car inspected at a licensed MA station within 7 days of registration.
