Massachusetts License Plates
From standard plates to customized decals that support various charities, Massachusetts is sure to have a license plate you’ll love.
Written by Melanie Johnson
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Whether you want to keep things classic with a standard plate, go a flashier route with a vanity plate, or opt for one that benefits a charity, you have options when selecting your perfect license plate in
Massachusetts
.License plates help to identify your car—and can also allow you to show off a bit of your personality. Massachusetts has many options for customizing your plates, either with vanity plates or those that support a favorite charity.
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What are Massachusetts license plates and why do I need them?
License plates are very important—think of them as identification for your car. License plates are proof that your vehicle has been
registered
and insured with the state minimum requirements
.License plates are also important if you get into an accident because they assist in the process of determining fault. They also help police track down stolen vehicles.
Per Massachusetts law, every passenger vehicle needs at least one license plate—either on the
front
or rear of the vehicle. You can decide which you prefer!What license plates does Massachusetts have?
Massachusetts has three main types of passenger license plates:
- Normal plates: These are on most of the vehicles you’ll see on the road. They’re either white with red lettering or white with green lettering.
- Vanity plates: These can be ordered for passenger or commercial vehicles, motorcycles, buses, campers, and more.
- Charitable organization plates: These are special plates that support a variety of charities, environmental causes, and sports teams.
Normal license plates
As stated, normal plates are white with either red or green lettering.
Anyone can apply for a normal plate by visiting any RMV location. It’s recommended that you
make an appointment
. These plates will need to be renewed every two years. There are also reserved plates. These plates allow the plate owner to receive the same serial number on a new plate style or to
transfer a serial number
to a family member. However, these plates are only available through the Special Plates Department by calling 857-368-8031.Vanity license plates
Passenger vanity license plates can be purchased for passenger or commercial vehicles, as well as motorcycles, buses, camper vans, and more.
Vanity plates must start with two letters, contain a maximum of six characters and a minimum of two characters, and cannot contain any periods, spaces, or punctuation marks. For a full list of vanity plate restrictions, visit
Request For Vanity Plates
. Vanity plates need to be renewed every November. You may order a vanity plate
online
or at any RMV center.
There is a $50 manufacturing fee, as well as a $20 swap fee. Once your order is placed, you will receive your vanity plate in the mail within 3 to 3 1/2 months. Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning nowCharitable organization plates
Massachusetts has dozens of license plates to support various charitable organizations. Some of the most popular are:
- ALS ONE: Features a green arrow, as well as “Care & A Cure For ALS” at the bottom. Proceeds benefitALS One Inc.
- Cure Breast Cancer: Features a pink ribbon with “Cure” written across it. Proceeds benefit theDiane Connolly-Zaniboni Breast Cancer Research Fund.
- United We Stand: Features a kneeling soldier. Proceeds benefit theMassachusetts Iraq and Afghanistan Fallen Hero Memorial Fund Inc.
- Fallen Heroes: Features the image of a firefighter against a red cross. Proceeds benefit theFireFighters Memorialfund.
- Fish and Wildlife: Proceeds benefit theEnvironmental Trust Fund, which offers grants to help preserve Massachusetts’ wildlife and environment.
- New England Patriots: Features the Patriots logo and “Superbowl Champions” or “6X Champions”. Proceeds benefit theNew England Patriots Charitable Foundation.
To apply for a license plate benefiting a charitable organization, you may apply
online
or in person at an RVM office.
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Reviewed on 5/28/2023
How do I get a Massachusetts license plate?
To get a license plate in Massachusetts, you’ll need to register and insure your vehicle first.
Along with one of the following:
- A manufacturer's certificate of origin (new vehicles only)
- Previous owner's certificate of title
- Previous owner's registration (only for vehicles exempt from having a title)
- Dealer re-assignment form (if applicable)
- A manufacturer's certificate of origin (new vehicles only)
- Registration fee ($60 for a 2-year plate)
- Title fee($75)
- Sales tax(6.25%)
You will receive a license plate and registration decal, certificate, and a new title!
If you want to replace your current plates, follow
Massachusetts’ instructions
for doing so. You will need:- Payment (typically $10 to replace)
How to customize your car insurance for savings in Massachusetts
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FAQs
How many license plates does Massachusetts have?
Massachusetts has three main types of passenger license plates—normal (or standard), vanity, and charitable organization plates.
Do I need a front license plate in Massachusetts?
You need either a front or a back license plate in Massachusetts. You, the driver, get to decide where you put your onerequiredlicenseplate.
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