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Guide for New Massachusetts Residents

There is no formal requirements for establishing residency in Massachusetts but voter registration, automobile registration, driver's license, mortgage and telephone bills can be used to provide proof of residence. If you are a U.S. citizen and you become a Massachusetts resident (18 years or older), you may register to vote at your town or city hall upon establishing an address in the state.

Automobiles must be registered at the Registry of Motor Vehicles and will require proof of ownership and insurance certification issued by a Massachusetts insurance company. To obtain a driver's license, you can avoid the driver's test and written exam if you present a valid license from any other state. You must, however, pass an eye exam. Automobiles must be inspected within 7 days after registered and are subject to an annual inspection for safety and environmental testing.

Licenses and permits in the state are as follows:

Marriage - issued by any city or town clerk to individuals over the age of 18.

Drinking - legal drinking age is 21; proper identification must be shown.

Guns - permits are issued by local police departments. Mandatory one year jail sentence for anyone illegally carrying a handgun, rifle or shotgun.

Boats & RVs - all boats with engines must be registered with the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Division of Law Enforcement.

Fishing & Hunting - licenses are required for anyone over age 15 for hunting or to fish in any inland waters. Town and city hall clerks and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife issed licenses, as well as some sporting goods stores.

Medical referrals to doctors and dentists area available from:

Massachusetts Medical Society
(781) 893-4610

Massachusetts Dental Society
(508) 651-7511