1. How often must license plates be renewed in Massachusetts?

License plates in Massachusetts must be renewed on an annual basis. The renewal period starts on the last day of the month in which the vehicle was registered.

2. What documents do I need to renew my license plates in Massachusetts?

In order to renew your license plates in Massachusetts, you will need the registration renewal notice that was sent to you by the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), your current insurance information, and payment for the renewal fees. Depending on the type of vehicle you have, additional documents may be required.

3. What is the fee to renew license plates in Massachusetts?

The fee to renew license plates in Massachusetts varies depending on the type of vehicle and the weight of the vehicle. The fee ranges from $30 to $100.

4. How do I renew my license plates online in Massachusetts?

You can renew your license plates online in Massachusetts by visiting the DMV website at www.mass.gov/dmv and clicking the “Online Services” tab on the top right of the page. From there, you can find the “Registration Renewal” page, where you can enter your license plate number and other information to begin the renewal process.

5. What is the process for replacing stolen or lost license plates in Massachusetts?

The process for replacing stolen or lost license plates in Massachusetts is as follows:

1. Report the missing or stolen plates to your local police department and get an incident report or case number.

2. Complete the RMV Form T21044A: Lost or Stolen Plate/Permit Application.

3. Submit the completed form with a copy of the police report to your local Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Service Center. You can also submit the form and police report by mail.

4. Pay a processing fee of $25 for a set of 2 license plates ($15 for a single plate).

5. The RMV will issue you new plates (if applicable) with a new registration sticker and a new vehicle registration certificate.

6. Is there a grace period for renewing expired license plates in Massachusetts?

No, there is no grace period for renewing expired license plates in Massachusetts. All vehicles must have current registration plates in order to legally operate on Massachusetts roads. It is a criminal offense to drive with expired registration plates.

7. What special license plates are available in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, drivers can choose from a wide variety of special plates, including collegiate plates, military plates, personalized plates, organizational plates, and more. Some of the most popular special plates in Massachusetts are the Boston Red Sox plate, the New England Patriots plate, the Special Olympics plate, and the Environmental plate.

8. Are there any discounts available for license plate renewal in Massachusetts?

Yes, Massachusetts residents are eligible for discounts for their license plate renewal. The discounts available vary by vehicle type and are explained on the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles website. Discounts are also available for military veterans as well as senior citizens.

9. Does Massachusetts require emissions testing as a part of license plate renewal?

Yes, Massachusetts requires emissions testing as a part of license plate renewal for certain types of vehicles. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires a vehicle safety and emissions inspection for all vehicles registered in the Greater Boston area, as well as certain types of cars and trucks 10 model years or older in the remaining areas of the state.

10. How do I transfer a vehicle’s license plate to another vehicle in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, you can transfer a license plate from one vehicle to another vehicle by filing Form RMV-2 with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. The form must include the vehicle’s information, the registration number of the transferring plate, and the registration number of the receiving plate. You must also include a valid Massachusetts driver’s license and a copy of an insurance policy for the receiving vehicle. The completed form must be submitted to your local RMV office.

11. Are personalized license plates available in Massachusetts?

Yes, personalized license plates are available in Massachusetts.

12. Does Massachusetts offer a military discount on license plate renewal fees?

No, Massachusetts does not offer a military discount on license plate renewal fees.

13. Is there a late fee when renewing expired license plates in Massachusetts?

Yes, there is a late fee when renewing expired license plates in Massachusetts. The fee is $25 for the first month after expiration, plus an additional $10 for each month thereafter.

14. What forms of payment are accepted for license plate renewal in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, license plate renewal payments can be made by cash, check, money order, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, or E-Check.

15. Does the DMV accept credit cards for payment of license plate renewal fees in Massachusetts?

Yes, the DMV in Massachusetts does accept credit cards for payment of license plate renewal fees.

16. Are there any programs that allow seniors to obtain discounts on their license plate renewal fees in Massachusetts?

Yes, the Massachusetts RMV offers a discounted license plate renewal fee for seniors over age 65. Seniors must apply for the Senior Citizen Discount Program at their local RMV office in order to receive the discount.

17. How do I add a decal to my license plates in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, license plates are not eligible to be personalized with decals. You can however, request a personalized plate which includes an image or graphic. You can find more information and get started on that process here: https://www.massrmv.com/license-plates/personalized-plates.html

18. What is the process for transferring ownership of a vehicle and renewing the license plates in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, to transfer ownership of a vehicle and renew the license plates you must:

1. Make sure the vehicle’s current title is in the seller’s name and that it is lien-free.

2. Make sure the vehicle registration is current.

3. Get a new title application from the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) and fill it out.

4. Have both parties sign the title in the presence of a notary public or RMV agent.

5. Present the new title application, current title, and valid identification to an RMV office.

6. Pay the applicable fees for a new title and registration.

7. Receive your new license plates and registration certificate.

19. How do I register a vehicle purchased from another state in Massachusetts?

You can register a vehicle purchased from another state in Massachusetts by bringing the out-of-state title, registration, and proof of insurance to a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles office. You must also provide proof of residency. You will need to pay the appropriate fees and taxes, and may be required to have the vehicle pass an emissions inspection. Depending on the age of the vehicle, you may also need to provide proof of ownership from the previous state.

20. Does Massachusetts offer temporary or short-term license plates?

Yes, Massachusetts offers temporary license plates. These plates are issued for a period of 7 days and can be obtained at any Registry of Motor Vehicles office.