Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, residents can personalize license plates for various vehicle types, including passenger vehicles and motorcycles. Personalized plates allow for a combination of letters and numbers, subject to specific character limits and guidelines.
How to Get a Personalized Massachusetts Plate
- Check Plate Availability: Before applying, verify if your desired plate combination is available using the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles' (RMV) Vanity Plate Application tool.
- Apply Online, In Person, or by Mail:
- Online: Use the Vanity Plate Application to select your plate design, enter your desired combination, and complete the application process.
- In Person: Visit a local RMV Service Center to apply for a personalized plate.
- By Mail: Complete the Vanity Plate Application and submit it, along with a copy of your current registration and the appropriate fees, to the address listed on the form.
- Await Approval: The RMV will review your application to ensure the requested plate combination adheres to state guidelines. Please allow approximately 12 weeks for processing.
- Receive Your Plate: Once approved and processed, your personalized plate will be mailed to you or your local RMV branch office. You will be notified when your plates are ready for pickup.
Important Notes for Massachusetts Residents
- Character Limits:
- Standard Plates: Up to 6 characters for passenger vehicles.
- Motorcycle Plates: Up to 5 characters.
- Prohibited Content: Plates must not contain offensive or inappropriate language. The RMV reserves the right to deny any combination deemed offensive to good taste and decency.
- No Punctuation: Punctuation marks or special characters are not permitted. Spaces are not allowed.
- Plate Ownership: Personalized plates are generally tied to the vehicle owner, not the vehicle itself.
- Renewal: Personalized plates must be renewed annually, along with your vehicle registration.
Fees:
| State | Initial Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $50 | $50 |
These fees are in addition to standard vehicle registration fees.
Massachusetts RMV - Vanity Plates