Complete Guide to Preparing and Signing Your Massachusetts Vehicle Title

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, legal transfer of vehicle ownership in Massachusetts.

1. Verify Your Title

Before selling your vehicle in Massachusetts, ensure the title is in your name and free of errors. If the title is lost or damaged, you must request a duplicate through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) before proceeding.

2. Sign the Title Correctly

Massachusetts does not require notarization for private vehicle sales. However, the title must be filled out properly. On the back of the title, complete the following fields:

• Seller’s Signature: Sign in the “Signature of Seller” section.
• Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as shown on the front of the title, and the date of signing.

     


Important: Do not cross out, alter, or use white-out on the title. Errors may require a duplicate title to proceed.

3. Address Any Liens

If there’s a lien on the title, it must be officially released by the lienholder. This can be done by signing off on the title or providing a separate lien release letter.

4. Complete the Bill of Sale

Massachusetts requires a Bill of Sale that includes:    

       
• Vehicle description (year, make, model, and VIN).
• Sale price and date of sale.
• Buyer’s and seller’s names and signatures.

A sample Bill of Sale is available on the Mass RMV website.

5. Remove License Plates

Massachusetts license plates stay with the seller. Remove your plates before completing the sale and return them to the RMV or transfer them to another vehicle you own.

6. Buyer’s Responsibility

The buyer must present the signed title, completed Bill of Sale, and proof of insurance to an RMV Service Center. They must also pay the sales tax and registration fees. Title transfer must be completed within 10 days of the sale.

Key Takeaways    

       

• No notarization is required for Massachusetts vehicle title transfers.
• Ensure all fields on the title and Bill of Sale are accurate and complete.
• License plates stay with the seller and must be returned or transferred.

For full details and downloadable forms, visit the Massachusetts RMV website.