In Massachusetts, the out-the-door price of a used car is the advertised price (which by law must already include the dealer's fees) plus 6.25% sales tax, plus the RMV title fee ($75) and the registration fee ($60). Anything else — extended warranty, plate transfer — is optional or depends on your situation.
Why the advertised price already includes dealer fees
Massachusetts consumer protection rules (940 CMR 5.02) say an advertised vehicle price has to include all charges the buyer must pay — including documentary preparation fees — except taxes and optional title and registration charges. In June 2026 the Attorney General reminded dealers that listing a doc fee "somewhere else" in the ad is not enough. At Waltham Auto Gallery, every price you see already includes our documentary preparation fee and runner fee.
A real example from our lot
Take the 2013 Toyota Prius Three we have in stock today:
| Advertised price (includes dealer fees) | $9,619.00 |
| MA sales tax — 6.25% of the vehicle price ($8,990.00) | $561.88 |
| Title (RMV) | $75.00 |
| Registration (RMV) | $60.00 |
| Out-the-door estimate | $10,315.88 |
Every car page on our site shows this same breakdown, calculated for that car.
What can change the total
- Trade-in: a trade-in can lower the amount you pay tax on.
- Plate transfer: if you move plates from a car you just sold, the registration cost can be different.
- Financing: the loan adds interest over time; the out-the-door price does not change, but your total cost does.
Quick checklist before you sign
- Ask for the out-the-door number in writing.
- Check that the fees on the contract match the advertised price.
- Make sure you have insurance — you need it to register the car in Massachusetts.