Massachusetts VIN Lookup

In Massachusetts, 88% of households own at least one vehicle. At this rate, the Bay State ranks along with Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia as states with the lowest car ownership rate. In addition to the cost of ownership, metro transportation options like subways, buses, and bikes, as well as Zipcar, Boston's leading carshare platform, are factors impacting the low vehicle ownership rate in the state.

However, when looking into used vehicles in the state, conducting a thorough VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) lookup is paramount to optimize your cost of ownership. This will help you make a well-informed car-buying decision. Whether from a dealership or a private seller, checking the vehicle's history through its VIN provides invaluable insights.

A thorough VIN lookup reveals the car's full history, including accident records, previous ownership, and maintenance details. This information is critical in evaluating the vehicle's condition and avoiding potentially expensive repairs in the future. Wise buyers ensure peace of mind and financial security by completing this vital step before finalizing their purchase. Remember, a smart car-buying choice begins with a detailed Vehicle History review, starting with a complimentary VIN lookup.

VIN Verification

A Vehicle Identification Number is a unique code used to identify individual motor vehicles. It's akin to a car's fingerprint, consisting of 17 characters (numbers and capital letters) that provide specific information about the vehicle, including its manufacturer, model, year, and more.

You can find a VIN on the car itself, typically visible through the windshield on the driver's side dashboard or on the driver's side door post (where the door latches when closed). It's also listed on the vehicle's registration, insurance documents, and title.

VIN verification is a crucial process in Massachusetts for anyone purchasing a used car. It involves checking the VIN against databases to confirm the vehicle's history, including past accidents, service records, and ownership changes. This verification helps ensure the car is not stolen, salvaged, or encumbered with undisclosed liabilities.

In Massachusetts, VIN verification can be performed by licensed garages, inspection stations, or law enforcement officers. To get a VIN lookup, visit the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles or authorized third-party service providers.

Massachusetts Car Ownership and Driving Info

Ownership Rate

87.8%

Registered Vehicles

5,036,686

Car Ownership Rate

In 2020, Massachusetts had a car ownership rate of 87.8%, with 5,036,686 registered vehicles. The state also had 21,010 registered electric vehicles in the same year.

Miles Per Year

13,109

Average Annual Mileage

Drivers in Massachusetts average 13,109 miles per year.

Favorite Car

Honda CR-V

Popular Car Makes in Massachusetts

The Honda CR-V is a favorite in Massachusetts, appreciated for its space, practicality, and fuel efficiency.

Crashes

121,079

Fatalities

317

Car Accidents

From 2016 to 2020, Massachusetts saw 1,770 fatalities from 1,682 crashes. This marks a 1% decrease from 2014-2018 but is slightly higher than the 2015-2019. In 2020, approximately 76,000 crashes and 286 fatalities were reported.

As of December 2023, Massachusetts reported 121,079 crashes year-to-date, with 317 fatalities. The state also recorded 1,687 pedestrian and 1,296 bicyclist crashes within the same period.

Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) offers a wide range of services:

• Online Service Center: Complete over 40 transactions online, including license and registration renewals.
• Make or Cancel a Reservation: Schedule or cancel RMV appointments.
• Identification Requirements: Information on documents required for RMV services.
• Register and Title Your Vehicle: Steps to registration and obtaining a title.
• Passenger (Class D) Driver's Licenses: Information and process for obtaining a Class D driver's license.
• Disability Plates and Placards: The application process for disability plates and placards.
• RMV Forms and Manuals: Access to various RMV forms and instructional manuals.
• Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL): Information on obtaining a CDL.
• RMV-issued Identification Cards: How to get a state ID card.
• Suspension Hearings: Information on hearings related to license suspensions.
• Driving and Other Violations: Guidelines on handling driving violations.
• Traffic Tickets: Process for dealing with traffic tickets.
• Alcohol and Drug Suspensions: Information on suspensions due to alcohol and drug offenses.
• Motorcycle (Class M) Driver's Licenses: Details on obtaining a motorcycle license.
• Vehicle Registration: Steps to register a vehicle.
• Military and Veteran RMV Information: Specific services for military members and veterans.
• Tips for RMV Success: Advice for smooth transactions at the RMV.
• RMV Professional Certifications & Credentials: Certifications and credentials offered by the RMV.
• Medical Standards Related to Driving: Health requirements for drivers.
• RMV Records Requests: How to request driving records.
• Merit Rating Board (MRB): Information on the MRB and its functions.
• Vehicle Certificate of Title: Guide to obtaining a vehicle title.
• Salvage Vehicles and Titles: Rules for salvage vehicles and titles.
• International Registration Plan (IRP): Details on the IRP for commercial vehicles.
• Massachusetts Vehicle Check: Information on vehicle inspections in Massachusetts.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

Here's a summary of various resources available in Massachusetts for car drivers and owners.

• Older Driver Resources: Massachusetts offers specific support for older drivers to ensure safety and mobility, including adapting driving practices and support systems.
• Disability Driver Support: Programs for drivers with disabilities include driving-related evaluations, resources for learning to drive, and alternative exam options for the learner's permit test.
• Veterans Support: Special programs like VA grants are available to assist veterans with vehicle acquisition and adaptive equipment.
• Youth and Teen Driver Education: Comprehensive guides and resources for first-time drivers, including steps to obtain a learner's permit and driver's license and safe driving tips.
• Traffic Safety Initiatives: Focus on distracted driving, car seat safety, pedestrian and bicyclist safety, motorcyclist safety, impaired driving, and occupant protection.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) Support and Incentives: Incentives for electric vehicle purchase and lease, emissions inspection exemptions for electric vehicles, and infrastructure support for electric vehicle charging.
• The Massachusetts Clean Auto Repair (MassCAR) Guide provides essential information for auto body and repair shops on managing hazardous waste, spill prevention, and other environmental best practices.
• Massachusetts Vehicle Check Program: Managed by MassDEP and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), this program oversees the state's vehicle emissions testing and safety inspection protocols.

Buying a Used Car in Massachusetts

Grace Period

7 day

Title Transfer Deadline

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles mandates a 7 day grace period for title transfer after acquiring a used vehicle. You can use the registration plates from your previous vehicle on the newly bought car during this period.

State Sales Tax

6.25%

Sales Tax Requirement

When purchasing a used vehicle in Massachusetts, expect to pay a 6.25% state sales tax on the purchase price.

Min. Cost

$700

Fewer Than

125,000 mi

Lemon Law Protection

The Massachusetts Lemon Law protects you when buying used vehicles from dealers or private parties. It applies if the car costs at least $700 (from dealers) and has fewer than 125,000 miles. Additionally, vehicles failing inspection within 7 days post-purchase are also covered under this law.

Made Before

1984

Diesel Cars

15 Years +

Emissions Testing

Most used cars require emissions testing, except for new cars (up to one year), electric cars, diesel cars made before 1984, or diesel cars older than 15.

Check Vehicle History

Before purchasing, obtain a vehicle history report using the car's VIN. Independent Inspection: Consider having the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic. This can uncover potential mechanical problems or maintenance issues that may not be apparent during a test drive.

Verify Mileage

Check the odometer reading against the vehicle history report and maintenance records.

Test Drive

Always take the car for a test drive under various conditions, including highway and city driving.

Negotiate Price

After assessing the car's condition and market value, don't hesitate to negotiate the price.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Massachusetts

To lookup a VIN number in Massachusetts, you have several options available:

VIN Replacement in Massachusetts

Replacing a VIN in Massachusetts is a detailed process that involves specific steps to ensure the vehicle's legality and proper registration. Here is a detailed explanation of the VIN replacement process in Massachusetts:

• Application: To begin the process, you need to complete the Application for Replacement of Vehicle Identification Number form, which is available for download on the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) website. You must fill out Sections B-D of the form, providing the necessary information about the vehicle and the reason for the VIN replacement.
• Visit RMV Service Center: After completing the application form, you must visit an RMV Service Center to submit the form and pay the required $50 fee.
• State Police Inspection: After visiting the RMV Service Center, you must contact the Massachusetts State Police Salvage Unit to schedule an appointment for inspection. During the inspection, the State Police will verify the information provided in your application and ensure the vehicle is not stolen. They will also check if the vehicle meets the criteria for a Massachusetts-assigned VIN.
• Vehicle Information: The application requires detailed information about the vehicle, including the model year, make, registration number, current VIN, and vehicle type. This information is used to verify the vehicle's identity and ensure the correct VIN is assigned.
• New VIN Assignment: If the vehicle passes inspection and meets the necessary requirements, the State Police will assign a new VIN to the vehicle. This new VIN will be used for registration and other legal purposes.

By following these steps and providing accurate information, you can successfully replace a VIN in Massachusetts.

Reasons to Do a VIN Lookup in Massachusetts

Conducting a VIN check is an important step in the vehicle purchasing process in Massachusetts for several reasons:

• Accident History: A VIN lookup can reveal the car's accident history, including major collisions or damages. This is crucial for assessing the vehicle's safety and structural integrity.
• Title Information: The check details the car's title, including any liens against it.
• Odometer Fraud Detection: The report can help identify odometer fraud, where the mileage has been artificially lowered to increase the car's value.
• Service and Maintenance Records: You can access the vehicle's service history, indicating how well previous owners maintained the car.
• Recall Information: It informs you if the vehicle was ever subject to manufacturer recalls and if those issues were adequately addressed.
• Insurance and Theft Records: You'll know if the car was ever stolen or involved in incidents that led to insurance claims.
• Ownership History: The VIN lookup shows the number of previous owners, which indicates the car's condition and value.
• Flood and Hail Damage: Cars that have been in floods or hail storms often have hidden damage. A VIN lookup can reveal such past incidents.
• Verification of Specifications: It helps verify the car's specifications, including make, model, engine type, and manufacturing details, ensuring you get what you pay for.

Vehicle Inspections in Massachusetts

Vehicle inspections in Massachusetts are mandatory for all registered vehicles and are crucial to maintaining road safety and environmental standards. Here's what the process entails:

• Inspection Stations: Over 1,800 licensed inspection stations across Massachusetts are authorized to conduct vehicle inspections.
• Inspection Procedures: These inspections include a visual check by a state-licensed inspector to identify any immediate safety risks, such as gasoline leaks.
• Vehicle Components Check: Key components like brakes, tires, and emissions systems are thoroughly inspected to ensure they meet state standards.
• Safety and Environmental Compliance: The inspections are designed to verify that vehicles comply with Massachusetts' safety and environmental regulations.
• Frequency of Inspections: Vehicles must undergo these inspections annually to remain legally drivable on Massachusetts roads.
• Inspection Fee: The standard fee for the Massachusetts Vehicle Check annual inspection is $35 for most vehicles.

What Does a Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Massachusetts?

A Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) in Massachusetts includes the following key elements:

• Visual Inspection: Checking for immediate safety risks, like gasoline leaks, and verifying the registration, license plate, and VIN.
• Safety Components: Inspects brakes, exhaust system, steering, suspension, horn, windshield wipers, mirrors, lighting, tires, wheels, bumpers, seat belts, and airbags.
• Emissions Testing: On-board diagnostic (OBD) tests for specific vehicle models to ensure compliance with emission standards.
• Check Engine Light: Indicates if the Check Engine light is on, signaling potential emissions control issues.