Transferring a car title in Massachusetts involves a specific process with the state's Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). The core steps are: completing the title certificate, getting a bill of sale, having the proper forms signed, and paying the relevant taxes and fees. The most critical document is the Title Certificate itself, which must be signed by both the seller and the buyer in the presence of a notary public.
First, the seller must properly complete the assignment of title on the back of the title certificate. This includes the sale price, odometer reading, and the exact date of sale. Both parties must sign this section, and their signatures need to be notarized. A Bill of Sale (RMV-1 form) is also highly recommended as it provides a formal record of the transaction details.
As the buyer, your responsibility is to submit these documents to the RMV, along with an Application for Title and Registration, to get a new title in your name. You will need to pay the state's 5% sales tax on the purchase price or the vehicle's book value, whichever is higher, plus the title and registration fees. If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, you may also need a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification. The entire process is typically completed in person at an RMV service center.
| Fee Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|
| Title Fee | $75 | Standard fee for issuing a new certificate of title. |
| Registration Fee | $60 | For a standard passenger vehicle; varies by vehicle type. |
| Sales Tax | 5% | Calculated on the purchase price or NADA book value. |
| Plate Transfer Fee | $25 | If you are transferring plates from another vehicle you own. |
| Lien Recording Fee | $20 | Applicable only if there is a lien on the vehicle. |
| Notary Fee | $1 - $10 | Varies depending on the notary public. |
