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Massachusetts Registration of the HDT/Motorhome
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| 2002 Volvo 770 aka Red Thunder |
Registration in MA was straight forward and by the book. It took more time to figure out how to insure it than it
than it did to register it. The definition of an RV (Autohome in the Regs) is governed by the definition found in MGL
90 Chapter 1. The full text of this can be found on the links page.
Step 1: Gather your documentation. (I will keep all of mine in a folio in the rig)
Step 2: Get it insured.
Step 3: Get it registered.
Step 4: Get it inspected.
Gathering Documentation: Keep a full set of pictures to show permanent modifications. Send an email to the RMV through
the web site asking for clarification of the definition of a Motorhome and the drivers licensing requirements. Play stupid
and ask if an Autohome is the same thing as an RV. Ask what is meant by permanent modifications. Print the reply off
and keep it with you. This allows you to avoid imposing your definition of the Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) on the
staff at the local RMV. Print a copy of MGL 90, Chapter 1.
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| Singled Rear Axle |
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| Commercial Air Brakes Removed |
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| RV Specific Hitch |
Repeat early and often, "I asked the Legal Liason for clarification, here is their response.", "I have documentation
of the permanent modifications."
Make sure that you have pictures of the "RV Specific" trailer hitch. Always refer to it as an RV specific trailer hitch.
Always refer to the tow vehicle as your permanently modified motorhome.
Be amazingly patient and let them put one plus one together. When they ask questions, always reference the MGL and the
email from the RMV. Use the language in the MGL and RMV in your responses.
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| Private RV |
Larry Z did most of the heavy modifications to my tow vehicle prior to delivery. Heavy modifications it turns out is
truck speak for butchering and hacking.
The full story of our truck nightmare can be found here.
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