Obtaining your car title is important because it confirms your legal ownership of that vehicle. If you own your vehicle outright, meaning there are no liens against it, and no outstanding car loans, you will want to get the title transferred into your name and in your possession quickly. This document is required to register your car with the state, as well as to sell it later on. Generally, you also need this proof of ownership for car insurance. If you do still have a car payment, then you still want a copy of the title, which will reflect the lienholder’s information as well as your own.
Obtaining your vehicle title can be tricky, as there are several forms you need to fill out and return to the correct government department, as well as associated fees. You can do this on your own, but CarTitles.com can also work on your behalf, saving you time and frustration. If you decide to do this on your own, follow the steps below; if you decide you would rather let someone else navigate the process, we are here to help.
You will need to complete the necessary paperwork, including the following:
Massachusetts requires registration within 10 days of the vehicle purchase.
There are also several fees associated with the vehicle title recovery process:
Check with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) for any additional fees or variances based on your location.
If you have recently paid off a car loan, you will need to ensure your lender initiates the line release, which lets the state know you now own the vehicle outright. Typically, this is done automatically by your lender, via the Electronic Lien & Title program (ELT). The RMV will then mail you a new, lien-free title. However, if your lender does not participate in the ELT program, you will need to contact them for a signed lien release letter on their letterhead. That letter then gets submitted to the RMV, along with your signed title, and the RMV-1 form linked above.
As with any government process, forms must be properly filled out and submitted through the correct channels, and the corresponding fees must also be paid. There are several potential pitfalls that could slow down your progress, including missing details, an unresponsive lender, or even incorrect forms. If you need help, CarTitles.com is ready to assist. We are experts at Massachusetts car title recovery, from lost and replacement car titles to deceased owner car title transfers, and everything in between. We can alleviate the headaches so you can focus on more important things.
If you’re ready to simplify your car title recovery process, contact us today to get started.
Within 30 days of moving to Massachusetts, you will need to register your vehicle by completing the RMV-1 Application and visiting the nearest RMV service center. You’ll also need your vehicle’s current out-of-state title, proof of current car insurance, and your driver’s license. The registration fee is $60, and the title fee is $75. Once your car is registered, you have seven days to get it inspected.
You can replace your lost car title online by visiting the Mass.gov site, or by submitting Form TTL-117 by mail or in person at your local RMV branch. There is a $25 fee for a replacement car title. You will also need your VIN and license plate number. If you need any assistance, let us know!
The quickest option is to apply online at Mass.gov. Typically, the turnaround time is just a couple of days. Otherwise, you can submit the Form TTL-117 application by mail or take it to your local RMV location. No matter which option you choose, you will also be required to pay the $25 fee. If there is still a lien on your vehicle, you will need to have the lienholder apply for the replacement car title.
If you are the surviving spouse or executor of the estate, you will need the vehicle’s original title, the death certificate, and an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse or any probate documents. You will also need to complete the Registration and Title Application. Take these documents to your local RMV service center for in-person processing.
Apply online at Mass.gov, or use Form TTL-117 to complete your application by mail or in person at a local RMV center. You can also visit an authorized AAA branch. You will need to provide the VIN and pay a $25 fee. You may also need to surrender your damaged title.
The team at CarTitles.com specializes in helping people with their car title recovery needs. We simplify what is often a confusing process. If you need help with any title requests, from new and replacement car titles to difficult lien release requests, we can help!
Once your car loan has been paid in full, your lender—the lienholder—will likely submit that information to the RMV electronically. The RMV will then send you the official documentation showing that the lienholder’s information has been removed from your title. You will then take that document and complete the Registration and Title Application to get a new, clear title. If you have any difficulties in obtaining the lien release from the lender, we can help.
