Do you need a dog license in Massachusetts? A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you get started by mail

You need to license your dog if theyre older than six months. You must get the license before April 1 of each year.

Youll need to provide a copy of your dogs current rabies certificate and proof of them being spayed or neutered. If you are renewing a dog license, you’ll need to give us your dogs license number. After we process your application, we’ll mail your dog’s license to you.

Not sure if your dog is licensed? You can search our dog license database. Step 2

Whether you’re licensing a new dog or renewing an old license, you need to print out and complete the dog license application.

Youll also need to pay a fee with your application:

$15 for a neutered male or spayed female, or

$30 for an intact male or female.

We take checks or money orders made payable to Boston Animal Care and Control. You’ll also need to pay any outstanding Animal Care and Control fines to get a license. If you are 70 or older, we waive the license fee. show hide In person Step 1

How to Obtain a Dog License

Licenses are issued each year, expiring on March 31. The renewal period for said licenses begins April 1 and goes until May 31. Licenses renewed after the renewal period may be subject to a late fee.

To obtain a yearly dog license, an owner must provide a valid anti-rabies vaccination certificate and the appropriate fees.

Any person who fails to obtain an annual dog license on or before May 31 shall be charged a late fee of $15 in addition to the license fee.

In Person or By Mail

Fill out a Dog License Request Form and submit to the City Clerks Office or via mail.

Cost:

$30

or $25 with veterinarians certificate of spaying or neutering.

Payment Options:

In person – Cash, personal check or money order

By US Mail – Personal check or money order only

• Make money order or check payable to “City of Worcester”

Order a dog license renewal online through Worcesters online payment partner.

Fees:

$30

or $25 with veterinarians certificate of spaying or neutering.

Payment Options: Credit card, debit card or electronic funds transfer (EFT).

For your convenience, our Dog License Record Search allows you to search our database for all active dog licenses on file. License Number: Street Name: (Please select from list) Owner Last Name: Starts Contains

Ask the County: Dog licenses