How to Transfer Ownership of a Car in Massachusetts

Without a title, there is no proof that you own the vehicle in question. Massachusetts (and every other state in the country) requires every vehicle to have a title in the owner's name. When a car changes hands, ownership must also be transferred. While buying or selling is the most common act, transfer of ownership must also take place when a car is passed down, when it is given as a gift or gift. There are several steps required to transfer ownership of a car in Massachusetts for both parties in this situation.

Buyers in Massachusetts

For buyers, the title transfer process is quite simple. However, this requires the following steps:

• Make sure you have received full ownership from the seller with all fields filled out on the back. This must include the seller's name and address, vehicle mileage, amount paid, and date of sale.
• Fill out an application for registration and name.
• In the absence of a title, due to the age of the car, a bill of sale from the seller, as well as a valid registration certificate, will be required.
• Be sure to get a release from the bond from the seller.
• Check it out and get a sticker.
• Within 10 days of purchase, bring this information, along with the $75 transfer fee and 6.25% sales tax, to the RMV office.

Common Mistakes

• Waiting for an application for a title for more than 10 days
• Do not get a release from the seller

Sellers in Massachusetts

Sellers in Massachusetts also need to follow a few steps. This includes:

• Complete the fields on the back of the header accurately.
• Get a lien release or ask the lien holder how to transfer ownership.
• Remove license plates. You have seven days to put them on another car or turn them in to RMV.
• If there is no title to the car, provide the buyer with a bill of sale that includes all relevant information that will appear in the title.

Common Mistakes

• Failure to obtain release from arrest

Inheritance and donation of cars in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, cars can be gifted or inherited. Gifting to family members (parents, children, siblings or spouses) means no sales tax. The gift process is the same as above, except that the recipient will be required to complete a sales tax exemption form.

Inheriting a car requires a similar process, although you will need to complete an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse if you are a spouse. You will also need to complete an affidavit in support of the claim for exemption from the tax on the sale or use of a vehicle passed within the family, and a statement of registration and ownership. Also bring your death certificate to RMV.

For more information on how to transfer ownership of a car in Massachusetts, visit the state RMV website.