Registry of Motor Vehicles' Fees Going up July 1

By Liz Taurasi

It’s going to cost more to register and inspect your car this year.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is increasing three Registry of Motor Vehicles Division fees in an effort to close a projected $55 million budget gap and make improvements to the state’s transportation system.

The increases were approved by the MassDOT’s board of directors on Wednesday and go into effect July 1.

“Transportation reform requires a collective approach to improving the Commonwealth’s transportation system,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Celia J. Blue in a statement released Wednesday. “The RMV fees collected will support road and bridge projects, improved customer service and allow MassDOT to properly fund its operating expenses.”

Starting July 1, non-commercial vehicle registration fees for motor vehicles will increase from $50 to $60. Commercial registration fees will not change.

Your annual motor vehicle inspection will increase to $35, up from $29, the first increase since 1999. According to MassDOT, $1 of the increase will be retained by the inspection station that conducts the inspection. The road test fee will also increase to $35, up from $20. Portions of the road test revenue will help support improved customer service for first time drivers.

MassDOT anticipates the new fee structure will generate approximately $55 million to $63 million in Fiscal Year 2015.

MassDOT says it will host public hearings on the fee increases this spring.