Massachusetts Vanity Plate Rules & Restrictions

Everything you need to know about what's allowed (and what's not) on Massachusettspersonalized license plates.

Massachusetts Plate Requirements at a Glance

Maximum Characters

6

Minimum Characters

2

Allowed Characters

Must start with 2+ letters, numbers only at end

Massachusetts Specific Rules

  • Maximum 6 characters
  • Must start with 2+ letters
  • Numbers only at end
  • Annual renewal required

What Will Get Your Application Rejected

Massachusetts RMV reviews all vanity plate applications. Here's what will definitely get rejected:

Offensive Content

  • Profanity or vulgar language
  • Racial, ethnic, or religious slurs
  • Sexual references or innuendo

Misleading Content

  • Impersonating government plates (POLICE, FBI)
  • Emergency vehicle references (911, FIRE)
  • Fake disability or veteran status

Drug References

  • Drug names or slang
  • References to drug use
  • Alcohol-related terms

Gang or Violence

  • Gang affiliations
  • Threatening language
  • Weapon references

Tips to Get Your Plate Approved

  • Keep it simple and clear

    Plates that are easy to read are more likely to be approved.

  • Avoid creative spellings of banned words

    Reviewers know all the tricks. "A55" isn't fooling anyone.

  • Have backup options ready

    Your first choice might be taken. Prepare 2-3 alternatives.

  • Check availability first

    Use our checker to verify your plate is available before applying.

What If My Application Is Rejected?

If Massachusetts RMV rejects your application, you typically can:

  • 1.Submit a different plate combination at no additional fee
  • 2.Request a refund of your application fee
  • 3.In some cases, appeal the decision with an explanation

Contact Massachusetts RMV directly for their specific appeal process.

Ready to Check Your Plate?

Make sure your dream plate is available in Massachusetts before applying.

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More Massachusetts Plate Resources