Transferring a Car Title in Massachusetts
Steps and fees to transfer a vehicle title in Massachusetts when you buy, sell or inherit a car, and the deadline to register after moving.
Short answer: When selling a titled vehicle, the owner must, at delivery, sign the assignment on the certificate of title, including the actual odometer reading and warranty of title, and give the title to the buyer or the Registrar. M.G.L. c. 90D, §§15, 18
| Transferring a car title | When selling a titled vehicle, the owner must, at delivery, sign the assignment on the certificate of title, including the actual odometer reading and warranty of title, and give the title to the buyer or the Registrar. The buyer must promptly sign the application for a new certificate of title and mail or deliver it, with the required fee, to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. A transfer is not effective between the parties until these steps are completed. Source: M.G.L. c. 90D, §§15, 18 |
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| Registering after you move | A vehicle registered in another state may not be operated in Massachusetts beyond thirty days after its owner acquires a regular place of abode, business or employment in Massachusetts, unless the owner maintains the required liability insurance (and then only within the limits of the law). Source: M.G.L. c. 90, §3 |
More Massachusetts car insurance & vehicle laws
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- SR-22 Insurance in Massachusetts
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- All Massachusetts car insurance & vehicle laws rules
FAQ
How do you transfer a car title in Massachusetts?
When selling a titled vehicle, the owner must, at delivery, sign the assignment on the certificate of title, including the actual odometer reading and warranty of title, and give the title to the buyer or the Registrar. The buyer must promptly sign the application for a new certificate of title and mail or deliver it, with the required fee, to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. A transfer is not effective between the parties until these steps are completed.
How long do you have to register your car after moving to Massachusetts?
A vehicle registered in another state may not be operated in Massachusetts beyond thirty days after its owner acquires a regular place of abode, business or employment in Massachusetts, unless the owner maintains the required liability insurance (and then only within the limits of the law).
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.