To get a car title in Massachusetts, you must complete the transaction with the seller, submit the required documents to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), and pay the applicable fees. The specific process depends on whether there is a lien on the vehicle and if you're the buyer or seller. The most common scenario involves a private sale where the buyer receives the signed title from the seller and then applies for a new title in their name.
For the Buyer (After a Purchase):
Your first step is to ensure the seller properly completes the Certificate of Title. They must sign it in the presence of a notary public. You'll also need a completed Bill of Sale (Form MAB-2), which details the vehicle and the sale price. Within 10 days of the sale, you must visit a full-service RMV location with these documents, a completed Application for Title and Registration (Form TTL001), proof of insurance, and a valid ID. You'll pay the title fee, sales tax, and registration fees. The RMV will then issue a new title, typically mailed to you within 10-15 business days.
For the Seller:
Your responsibility is to accurately complete the title assignment section, including the odometer reading and sale price, and have your signature notarized. Provide the buyer with the signed title and a completed Bill of Sale. To protect yourself from future liability, you must also notify the RMV of the sale by submitting a Notice of Sale (Form NOS) online or by mail, which officially removes the vehicle from your name.
If the Title is Lost or There's a Lien:
If the title is lost, the seller must apply for a duplicate before the sale. If there's a lien (a loan), the lienholder holds the title. The lien must be paid off, and the lienholder will then release the title to you, often directly to the RMV.
| Step | Document/Form | Fee (Approximate) | Responsible Party | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Complete Sale | Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale (MAB-2) | N/A | Buyer & Seller | Seller's signature must be notarized on the title. |
| Buyer Applies for Title | Application for Title and Registration (TTL001) | $75 (Title Fee) | Buyer | Must be done within 10 days of purchase. |
| Pay Sales Tax | Based on Bill of Sale | 6.25% of sale price | Buyer | Paid at the RMV during title application. |
| Seller Notifies RMV | Notice of Sale (NOS) | No Fee | Seller | Crucial to avoid liability for parking tickets or violations. |
| Duplicate Title (if lost) | Duplicate Title Application (TDT-1) | $25 | Seller (before sale) | Required if the original title is missing. |
| Lien Release | Lien Release Document | Varies | Lienholder/Buyer | The RMV processes the release before issuing a clear title. |
The entire process is straightforward if you have all the correct, properly executed paperwork. The most common delays occur due to missing notarization or an incomplete application.
