In Massachusetts the order is: insurance first, then registration. The registration form (RTA) needs your insurance agent's stamp, then you pay the 6.25% sales tax on the vehicle price plus the RMV $75 title and $60 registration fees and the $35 inspection sticker, and the car must pass the state inspection within 7 days. You can do all of this without a Social Security number — what you need is a driver's license and an insurance policy.
1. Insurance (before anything else)
Massachusetts requires a minimum (compulsory) auto insurance policy before a car can be registered. Many insurance companies can write a policy with a Massachusetts or a foreign driver's license and no SSN, but each company has its own rules — ask the agent which documents they accept and compare quotes. If you finance, the lender will usually require collision and comprehensive coverage too.
2. The driver's license
To register the car in your name you need a driver's license. Massachusetts residents can apply for a standard license regardless of immigration status — see our driver's license guide.
3. Registration and title (the dealer does it)
When you buy from us, we prepare the RMV paperwork and our runner takes it to the RMV: the RTA form stamped by your insurance agent, the title application and the sales tax payment. You leave with plates (new, or transferred from a car you just sold). If you financed, the lender is listed on the title until the loan is paid off.
4. What you pay
| Vehicle price | $9,990.00 |
| Dealer fees (documentary preparation, runner) | $629.00 |
| MA sales tax — 6.25% of the vehicle price | $624.38 |
| Title (RMV) | $75.00 |
| Registration (RMV) | $60.00 |
| Inspection sticker | $35.00 |
| Out-the-door estimate | $11,413.38 |
5. Inspection within 7 days
After registration, the car has to pass the Massachusetts safety and emissions inspection within 7 days. If it fails within those 7 days and the repairs would cost more than 10% of the purchase price, the "Lemon Aid" law lets you ask to cancel the sale.
6. Every year
Your city or town sends a motor vehicle excise tax bill each year, and the car needs a new inspection sticker every year. Keep your insurance active — a lapse can lead to the registration being revoked.
Buying without an SSN?
Read how to buy a car without a Social Security number and our ITIN financing guide (financing subject to credit approval). We explain every step in English, Portuguese or Spanish.