You need an appointment to visit most Massachusetts RMV branches

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) requires you to book an appointment before visiting most branch locations for registration, renewal, or title work. You cannot walk in without one — the RMV stopped accepting walk-ins at most branches and now operates by appointment only. The main exception is the Boston branch, which holds a limited number of same-day appointments, but these fill quickly.

You book appointments through the RMV's online system at mass.gov/rmv. The system shows you available times at branches near you, lets you choose a date and time that works, and sends you a confirmation. You will need this confirmation when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Book your appointment at mass.gov/rmv using the online scheduling system; walk-ins are not accepted at most branches.
  • You must bring your confirmation number and valid ID to your appointment, along with any documents the RMV lists for your specific transaction.
  • Appointment slots typically open 30 days in advance and fill fastest for popular branches and times like early morning or mid-week.
  • If you cannot keep your appointment, cancel it through the same system so the slot opens for someone else.
  • The Boston branch accepts a small number of same-day appointments on a first-come, first-served basis if online slots are full.

How to book an appointment online

Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Schedule an Appointment" link on the homepage. Click it and you will enter the scheduling system. You will be asked to choose what you need — registration renewal, title transfer, duplicate registration, or another transaction. Select the one that matches your reason for visiting.

Next, enter your ZIP code or choose a branch from the list. The system shows you which branches have openings and how far out the next available slot is. Some branches book weeks ahead; others may have openings within days. Choose the branch that works for you and the system will show you available dates and times. Pick one, enter your contact information, and the system will send you a confirmation number by email.

Save this confirmation number. You will need it when you arrive at the branch. The RMV may also text or email you a reminder a day or two before your appointment.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Bring your confirmation number and a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Beyond that, what you need depends on your transaction. For a registration renewal, bring your current registration card. For a title transfer, bring the signed title from the seller, a bill of sale, and proof of insurance. For a duplicate registration, bring your ID and proof of residency if the RMV asks for it.

The RMV website lists the full document checklist for each transaction type. Before you go, search for your specific transaction on mass.gov/rmv and print or screenshot the checklist. Bring everything listed. If you arrive without required documents, the RMV may not be able to complete your transaction and you will have to reschedule.

When appointments open and how fast they fill

The RMV releases appointment slots 30 days in advance. If today is January 15, you can book an appointment as far ahead as February 14. Slots open at midnight on the 30-day mark, and popular branches and times — early morning, mid-week, and branches in busy areas — fill within hours or days.

If you cannot find an opening at your preferred branch, try branches farther away or look at times you might not have considered first, like late afternoon or Friday. Some people find that checking the system on weekday mornings, when fewer people are booking, gives them better options. If you are in a hurry, the Boston branch (100 Nashua Street) holds same-day appointments on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 7:30 a.m., though these are limited and often full by mid-morning.

What to do if you cannot keep your appointment

Cancel your appointment through the same online system as soon as you know you cannot make it. Log back into mass.gov/rmv, find your appointment, and select the cancel option. This frees up the slot for someone else and prevents you from being marked as a no-show, which can affect future scheduling.

If you need to reschedule instead of canceling, you can often do this through the system as well. Some branches let you move your appointment to a different date and time without canceling first. If the system does not let you reschedule, cancel and book a new slot.

What happens when you arrive at your appointment

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your confirmation number, valid photo ID, and all documents listed on the checklist for your transaction. Check in at the front desk and give them your confirmation number. They will call you when it is your turn. Wait times are usually short because the RMV is managing the flow by appointment, but some branches can run behind during busy periods.

When you reach the counter, the RMV staff will review your documents, process your transaction, and tell you what happens next — whether you pay a fee, when your new registration or title will arrive, or whether you need to return for a road test or inspection. Keep any receipts they give you.

Alternatives if you cannot book an appointment

If the online system shows no openings for weeks and you need to renew your registration urgently, you have a few options. First, check the Boston branch for same-day appointments — these are limited but available most days. Second, try branches outside major metro areas; they often have more availability than Boston, Worcester, or Springfield. Third, some transactions can be done by mail. The RMV website lists which ones — registration renewal is often one of them — and you can request a mail form through the website.

If you are renewing a registration that has already expired, you can still renew it, but you may face a late fee. Do not drive with an expired registration while waiting for an appointment; that is a violation. If your registration is about to expire and you cannot book an appointment in time, contact the RMV directly at 857-368-8000 to ask about your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment for someone else?

No. The person whose transaction it is must book the appointment themselves or be present at the appointment. If someone else is handling your registration or title work, they will need to book under their own name and bring a signed power of attorney or notarized letter from you, depending on the transaction.

What if I miss my appointment?

If you do not show up, the RMV may mark you as a no-show. This can affect your ability to book future appointments quickly. If you miss an appointment, cancel it through the system if you have not already, and book a new one. If you were running late and arrived after your time slot, ask the staff whether they can still see you; some branches will if they are not busy.

Do I need an appointment for a road test?

Yes. Road tests are scheduled separately from other RMV transactions. You book a road test appointment through the same mass.gov/rmv system, but you select "Road Test" as your transaction type. Road test slots fill quickly and may be weeks out depending on your area.

Can I change my appointment time or branch after I book?

Yes, through the online system. Log back in with your confirmation number, find your appointment, and look for a reschedule or modify option. If the system does not offer this, cancel your current appointment and book a new one at the time and branch you prefer.

What if the website is down or I cannot book online?

Call the RMV at 857-368-8000 during business hours. Staff can help you book an appointment over the phone, though wait times to reach someone can be long. You can also visit a branch in person and ask staff to help you book at a kiosk, though this defeats the purpose of the appointment system. Online booking is the fastest option.