Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to turn in my damaged car title?

Yes. If you have a damaged car title, you should turn it in at a local RMV branch at your earliest convenience. The original vehicle title will no longer be valid when you receive a replacement.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

How do I file a police report if my car title was stolen?

You can easily file a police report by venturing to a nearby station and notifying an officer about the incident. Make sure to get a copy of the police report, so that you can present it at a local RMV branch and alert them of your MA stolen car title.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

How do I obtain a duplicate car title?

If you have a lost car title, then you will need to apply for a car title copy. In Massachusetts, you can get a duplicate copy either online, in person or by mail.

Online

To obtain a duplicate car title copy online, you will need to visit the MA RMV Request a Duplicate Title page. Once there, make sure to have a major credit card ready for payment VISA, MasterCard, Discover or American Express is accepted.

Be aware that before getting started, you will need to have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with you. If you are deemed eligible to get a duplicate title online, your new title will be mailed to you within two business days.

In Person

You can apply for a duplicate vehicle title by visiting a nearby RMV branch and presenting proof of identification, a filled out Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title and payment for the duplicate fee.

By Mail

If applying by mail, include a Duplicate Title Application and a $25 payment fee, with your request. Send these items to the below address:

Attn: Duplicate Titles Department Registry of Motor Vehicles PO Box 5588 Boston, MA 02205-5885

Make your check payable to MassDOT and allow seven to ten business days for your Massachusetts duplicate car title to be sent to you. If you would like to know the status of your request, you can contact the Title Division at 857-368-8050.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

How do I obtain a salvaged car title?

A vehicle will require a salvaged car title if it is deemed a total loss. A total loss constitutes of a vehicle that is damaged, destroyed, ruined by water, fire or another natural disaster to the point of no repair. The owner s insurance company will have to seek a salvage title if any of the aforementioned applies.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

How do I transfer my car title between states?

If you are wondering how to transfer car title documentation to a new state, you should contact the DMV in the location you are moving to. Each state’s DMV follows slightly different procedures for the transfer of title. Once there, they will be able to guide you with step-by-step instructions on how to obtain a new car title.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

How do I transfer my car title if I lost the original?

If you have a lost car title, then you will need to apply for a car title copy. In Massachusetts, you can get a duplicate copy either online, in person or by mail.

Online

To obtain a duplicate car title copy online, you will need to visit the MA RMV Request a Duplicate Title page. Once there, make sure to have a major credit card ready for payment VISA, MasterCard, Discover or American Express is accepted.

Be aware that before getting started, you will need to have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with you. If you are deemed eligible to get a duplicate title online, your new title will be mailed to you within two business days.

In Person

You can apply for a duplicate vehicle title by visiting a nearby RMV branch and presenting proof of identification, a filled out Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title and payment for the duplicate fee.

By Mail

If applying by mail, include a Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title and a $25 payment fee with your request. Send these items to the below address:

Attn: Duplicate Titles Department Registry of Motor Vehicles PO Box 5588 Boston, MA 02205-5885

Make your check payable to MassDOT and allow seven to ten business days for your Massachusetts duplicate car title to be sent to you. If you would like to know the status of your request, you can contact the Title Division at 857-368-8050.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

How do I transfer my car title?

Before completing a MA car title transfer to the new owner of your vehicle, you will need to make sure you include pertinent information on the document itself. This may include the following:

  • Odometer mileage reading
  • Your signature
  • Selling price
  • Date of sale

It is also recommended that you complete a Bill of Sale during your transaction. Include details such as your vehicle s description, your information, the buyer s information, and the selling price of your vehicle, make and model.

If you are purchasing a vehicle from a private party, check the aforementioned information on the car title. Thereafter, make sure to present your insurance company with an Application for Registration and Title (RMV-1) form.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

How do I transfer the title of my RV?

The state of Massachusetts provides a grace period of seven calendar days for transferring car title certification of your RV. You must fill out the original title with all the necessary details (odometer reading, vehicle information) and have any other supporting documents available.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

How long does it take to receive my replacement car title after ordering online?

If you are ordering a Massachusetts car title copy online, expect to have your new title mailed out to you within two business days.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

If a family member dies and leaves his or her car to me, how do I switch over the title?

If you are listed as the heir on the deceased owner s will, you can transfer car title specifications to your name by visiting a local RMV branch with the following documents:

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

What are some reasons that may require me to transfer my car title?

The most common reasons for transferring car title documentation include:

  • Selling your vehicle to a private party.
  • Selling your vehicle to a dealership.
  • Gifting your vehicle to a friend or family member.
  • Donating your vehicle to a charity.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

What are the required fees to get a replacement car title?

In Massachusetts, a duplicate car title fee is $25. The RMV office accepts payment in the form of cash, checks or money orders.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

What documents do I need to present for a replacement car title?

When getting a car title replacement in Massachusetts, you will need to present the following:

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

What documents do I need to transfer my car title?

If you are in the process of selling a vehicle to a new owner, then you will need to present them with your car title. If you do not have a car title available, it is advisable that you apply for a duplicate copy prior to completing the transaction. Additionally, a Bill of Sale should also be filled out with details about your vehicle.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

What forms must I fill out for a duplicate car title?

For replacing car title documentation, you will need to complete an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title. You can obtain this form at an RMV branch, an insurance company or by visiting the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles website.

You can also call the MA RMV Telephone Center to request an application.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

What if the original is located after my car title replacement has been issued?

The original will be considered invalid if it is located after you have requested a duplicate copy. Thus, you must dispose of it.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

What is the process to get a title for a scooter or motorcycle?

Both motorized scooters and motorcycles require a title in the state of Massachusetts, therefore you will need to get a car title the same way you would a passenger car. The requirements may differ depending on whether you are purchasing your scooter or motorcycle from a dealer or a private party.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

When should I complete a Bill of Sale?

It is recommended that you always complete a Bill of Sale when transferring vehicle ownership whether you are buying a car or selling a car. This essential document should be used in conjunction with transferring (or acquiring) a car title.

For more information: Title Transfers or obtaining a New Certificate of Title in Massachusetts

Where can I mail my request for a replacement title?

When ordering a Massachusetts car title replacement by mail, send your request to the address below:

Attn: Duplicate Titles Department Registry of Motor Vehicles PO Box 55885 Boston, MA 02205-5885

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts

Will I need to present proof of insurance to get a car title replacement?

You are not required to present proof of insurance when requesting a duplicate car title. However, you will have to fill out an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title.

For more information: How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Title in Massachusetts