How to Renew Your Vehicle Registration in Massachusetts
Massachusetts residents will receive an RMV-2 renewal form in the mail before their registration expiration date. Otherwise, residents can file an RMV-3 form, getting it stamped by their insurance agent, in place of the RMV-2 form.
If the renewal notice did not arrive because of a wrong address, revoked registration, or outstanding fees, residents could check the MA RMV website for their registration status. Failing to renew and driving with expired tags can result in a suspended license or worse!
Anyone leasing a vehicle should receive a renewal notice through their leasing company. The renewal process is identical to private registration renewal.
Vehicle registration renewal is available via:
- Online
- In-Person
- Phone
These registration types vary and are noted on the renewal status. Given the registration is valid and your license is in good standing – you will complete the following actions to renew your vehicle’s registration.
Massachusetts Car or Truck Registration Renewal: Step-by-Step
Every vehicle in Massachusetts must have an active auto insurance policy.
The renewal form will mention if insurance is required during the re-registration process. You must get your application stamped by an insurance agent to show proof of insurance if the form does not include this confirmation.
With these items satisfied and paperwork in order, follow one of the guides below to renew an MA car registration online, in-person, by mail, or over the phone:
Renewing Online
Online vehicle registration renewal is the fastest and easiest method requiring a few items and basic requirements. Requirements include the vehicle in your notice notes you have approved insurance.
- Visit myRMV
- Provide your information
- Driver’s license number
- Last 4-digits of your Social Security number
- Email address
- Pay the renewal fee(s)
Your renewed registration should arrive in the mail no longer than ten days.
Renewing In-Person
Renewal at a local RMV branch is a perfect option if you have additional business in mind.
- Find an MA DMV
- Or: AAA with RMV services (if a member)
- Complete and submit your Renewal Form (RMV-2)
- Or: stamped Application to Renew (RMV-3)
- If applicable: Provide documents blocking renewal
- Pay the registration renewal fees
You’ll receive your documents on the spot, including your registration and decal.
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewals take a good amount of time and aren’t the preferred method. Yet, the renewal option exists nonetheless.
- Gather the completed application (with the applicable insurance stamp)
- Write a check or money order to: MassDOT or the Registry of Motor Vehicles
- Send your documents
These items go to:
Attention: Mail-In Registration Department
PO Box 55891
Boston, MA 02205-5891
Your items should arrive in the mail in less than ten days if there are no delays.
Renewing by Phone
There are three phone numbers available:
- 339/617/781/857 area codes or outside MA: 857-368-8000
- All other MA area codes: 800-858-3926
- The renewal includes Phone ID: 866-MASSRMV
You will provide you:
- Vehicle registration number (license plate)
- Name and address
- Payment details (credit or debit card)
Those with the Phone ID will mention the number during the call for faster processing.
Vehicle Safety and Emissions Inspections
Vehicles must also undergo vehicle inspections after the renewal process. Some exemptions apply and require a waiver to forgo or delay the inspections. You will complete the inspection at one of the approved RMV’s inspection stations – call to verify your information and make an appointment.