Buying a vehicle from an out-of-state dealership can be exciting, especially if you found the exact vehicle you wanted. But for Massachusetts residents, the process can also be confusing.
Can you drive it home? Do you need temporary plates? Who provides proof of insurance? When do you need to register it in Massachusetts?
The good news is that Massachusetts now honors qualifying out-of-state temporary registrations, which can make it easier for Massachusetts residents to purchase a vehicle from a dealer in another state and drive it home.
Here’s what you need to know before you leave the dealership.
How Do I Get My New Vehicle Home?
If you purchased a vehicle from an out-of-state dealer, there are generally three ways to get it back to Massachusetts:
Option 1: The Vehicle Is Registered in Massachusetts Before You Leave
In some cases, the dealer or buyer may complete the Massachusetts registration process before the vehicle leaves the dealership. If this happens, you will receive Massachusetts plates that allow you to drive the vehicle back to Massachusetts.
Option 2: The Dealer Issues a Temporary Out-of-State Registration
The dealer may issue a temporary out-of-state registration that allows you to drive the vehicle back to Massachusetts.
If you are using a temporary registration, the vehicle must be properly insured, and proof of insurance must be kept in the vehicle while operating under the temporary registration.
Option 3: The Vehicle Is Towed or Transported
You may also choose to tow or transport the vehicle back to Massachusetts. If the vehicle is transported, you will still need to complete the Massachusetts title and registration process before driving it on public roads.
Before You Leave the Dealership
Before driving your new vehicle back to Massachusetts, make sure you have:
- Your temporary registration, if one was issued
- Proof of insurance
- Your bill of sale or purchase agreement
- The original title or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, if applicable
- Any other documents provided by the dealership
Keeping these documents with you can help avoid delays or confusion while transporting your vehicle back to Massachusetts.
Once You Return to Massachusetts
Once the vehicle is back in Massachusetts, you will need to promptly title and register it.
Massachusetts law requires you to apply for a Certificate of Title within 10 days of purchasing the vehicle. This deadline is not extended just because your temporary registration is still valid.
You can review the Massachusetts title law here: Massachusetts Certificate of Title Law.
You can also review the RMV’s registration guidance here: Apply for a Registration and Title for a Vehicle Purchased from a Dealer.
Don’t Forget Your Inspection
After your vehicle has been registered in Massachusetts, it must receive a Massachusetts vehicle inspection within 7 days of the registration date.
You can learn more here: Massachusetts Vehicle Inspections.
Did You Know?
At Risman Insurance Agencies, we help clients through this process every day.
Depending on your transaction, we may be able to:
- Provide proof of insurance for your temporary registration
- Prepare your Massachusetts Registration and Title Application
- Apply the required insurance stamp
- Assist with registration through our runner service
- Process eligible registrations through select Risman office locations
Availability depends on the type of transaction being processed, but we’re always happy to help you understand your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a vehicle home from another state to Massachusetts?
Yes, in many cases. If the out-of-state dealer issues a qualifying temporary registration and the vehicle is properly insured, Massachusetts will honor that temporary registration so you can transport the vehicle back to Massachusetts.
Do I need insurance before picking up the vehicle?
Yes. If the dealer is issuing a temporary registration, they may require proof of insurance before releasing the vehicle or issuing the temporary registration.
How long do I have to register the vehicle in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts law requires you to apply for a Certificate of Title within 10 days of purchasing the vehicle. Since that timeframe includes gathering documents and completing the registration process, it’s best to start right away.
When does the vehicle need to be inspected?
After the vehicle is registered in Massachusetts, it must receive a Massachusetts inspection within 7 days.
Need Help with an Out-of-State Vehicle Purchase?
Already a Risman client?
If you’re purchasing a vehicle outside of Massachusetts, contact us before you pick up your new vehicle. We’ll help you obtain the insurance documents you need and guide you through the Massachusetts registration process once you return home.
Contact Risman Insurance Agencies
Not a Risman client yet?
Planning to purchase a vehicle out of state? We’d be happy to help you secure the insurance coverage you need and make the registration process as smooth as possible.
Whether you’re buying your next vehicle in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, or another state, Risman Insurance Agencies is here to help you get on the road with confidence.
Important Information
The information in this article is intended as a general guide to help Massachusetts residents understand the vehicle registration process when purchasing a vehicle from an out-of-state dealer. Registration requirements may vary depending on the type of vehicle, the state where it was purchased, the dealership’s procedures, and your individual circumstances.
Requirements and RMV policies are subject to change. Before purchasing your vehicle, we recommend confirming the current requirements with your dealership, your insurance agent, and the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
If you’re a Risman Insurance Agencies client, we’re happy to help guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way.
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