The Massachusetts DMV bill of sale for a motor vehicle, trailer, or boat is an application that allows users to record pertinent information concerning the sale of a vehicle/vessel. Both the buyer and the seller must input the necessary data and then sign the agreement to finalize the documentation. The state does not require this contract unless the vehicle is exempt from titling, in which case the purchaser would provide the bill of sale and the most recent registration when processing the vehicle at the DMV. Generally speaking, it is a good document to have on file in case you need to provide proof of purchase or proof that you are no longer liable for the vehicle.

How to Register a Vehicle

If you are looking to register your vehicle in the state of Massachusetts, please make your way to your local RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) with the following mandatory criteria:

• The title (signed by both the buyer and seller)
• If your vehicle is exempt from titling (the vehicle’s year is prior to 2000), you must provide a bill of sale and the vehicle’s last registration. A Bill of Sale is also necessary if there is no room to record the sales price on the title.
• Proof of an active auto insurance plan.
• A completed Massachusetts (RMV-1) Registration Application. You must present this form to an authorized insurance agent who will fill in all the necessary fields, sign, and stamp the document. (Be sure to include any active lienholders on the application.)
• An accurate Odometer Disclosure Statement (this form is only necessary if there is no room to record the mileage on the title)
• Come with the proper methods of payment to satisfy any registration, tax, or titling fees.

Once you have been processed and approved, you will instantly receive your registration and plates. Titles may take up to 10 business days to be delivered by mail. All vehicles must be inspected within 7 days of registration.

How to Register a Vessel

To legally operate any watercraft propelled by a motor upon waters located within the borders of the State of Massachusetts you must register the boat with the regional governing authorities. The exception to in-state registration is if you plan to use a boat registered with a neighboring or outlying state for a period of time that shall be no longer than a 60 day period. In addition to registration, all vessels propelled by motor or sail measuring larger than a length of 14 feet will be obligated to apply for a certificate of title. The following watercraft are exempt from this requirement:

• Boats titled in another state to be used for less than 60 consecutive days in Massachusetts.
• State-owned or Federal-owned vessels.
• Boats owned by an authorized to be used for the sole purpose of advertisement to showcase features of a vessel.

To obtain lawful registration make a trip to a nearby Boat and Recreational Vehicle Registration and Titling Bureau office location with the addressed paperwork as follows:

• A fully-filled out Massachusetts Application for Registration and Title (Form RMV-1).
• An executed Bill of Sale or manufacturer’s certificate of origin for newly purchased vessels.
• Reassigned title and/or registration if purchased used from a private party.
• A photograph or pencil tracing of the vessel’s hull identification number.
• Evidence that the total tax on the boat has been properly paid with one of the following documents:
  • A completed Massachusetts Certificate of Payment of Sales or Use Tax for Boat, Recreation, or Snow Vehicle (Form ST-6).
  • Confirming receipt of electronic payment made to the State of Massachusetts using MassTaxConnect.
  • In the case that you are exempt from this requirement, you can present a completed Massachusetts Claim for Exemption from Sales or Use Tax on Boat, Recreation, or Snow Vehicle (Form ST-6E).
• A recorded and endorsed Odometer Reading Statement.
• An actively valid driver’s license or identification card.
• Adequate payment for all applicable taxes and fees made payable to the ‘Commonwealth of Massachusetts’.

How to Write

Step 1 – Download in Adobe PDF.

Step 2 – Sale Info – Insert the following sale details into the first and second blank provided:

• Date of Sale
• In consideration of the sum of $ (enter the sales price numerically, in dollars)

Step 3 – Received by – This section requires that the individual selling the vehicle/vessel provide:

• Seller’s Name
• Address

Step 4 – From – This section requires that the individual purchasing the vehicle/vessel prints:

• Buyer’s name
• Address

Step 5 – Vessel/Vehicle Description – Provide a vehicle/vessel description which includes:

• Year
• Make
• HIN/VIN Number
• Length of Vessel (only required if the sale involves a boat)

Step 6 – Does the vessel include a motor or trailer? – This strictly applies to the sale of a vessel. Check one of the following boxes for each inquiry depending on your situation:

• Yes
• No

Step 7 – Trailer and Motor Description – If your vessel contains either a trailer or motor, provide a description specifying the details regarding the products.

Step 8 – Signatures – Both the buyer and seller must provide signatures to complete the process.