A Guide to Getting Your Massachusetts Driver’s License

Table Of Content

Applying for your Massachusetts learner’s permit or driver’s license may seem rigorous. Fortunately, we’re here to make it easy for you! Learn about the required documents, license process, cost, and much more. Pass your written and driving test on the first attempt and get in the driver’s seat faster!

How to Get Your Driver’s License in Massachusetts

Like any other state, you must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license to drive legally in the state.

Here are the steps you need to follow to get your MA driver’s license:

1. Apply for a Learner's Permit and practice driving while being supervised.

2. Apply for a Junior Operator License to drive with certain restrictions.

3. Apply for a Full (Adult) License and drive without restrictions.

Driver’s License Classes in Massachusetts

Massachusetts driver's licenses are categorized into various classes based on the type of vehicle.

Here’s an overview of the different license classes in the Bay State:

Class D

This is the standard license for operating passenger vehicles, vans, and small trucks. It’s the most common license for everyday drivers.

Class M

This license is for motorcycle riders. It allows you to operate motorcycles and mopeds on public roads.

CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)

There are three classes of CDL licenses:

• Class A: For operating large vehicles like tractor-trailers or combination vehicles.

• Class B: For single vehicles like buses or large trucks.

• Class C: For smaller vehicles that transport hazardous materials or carry 16 or more passengers.

Each license class has its requirements and tests, so it’s important to know which one you need based on the vehicle you plan to drive.

Stage 1: How to Get Your Massachusetts Learner’s Permit

Applying for a learner's permit is the first step toward getting a driver's license. You must pass a written knowledge test and meet the age and residency requirements to obtain it. The permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult before taking your road test.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a learner's permit, you must:

• Be 16 years old

• Be a resident of Massachusetts

• Provide parental consent (if you’re under 18)

Validity

Permits are valid for two years or the duration of your stay in the US.

Documents Required

You’ll need the following documents for your MA learner’s permit:

1. Proof of Identity: U.S. Passport or Birth Certificate

2. Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or a pay stub with your full SSN.

3. Proof of Lawful Presence: U.S. Passport, Permanent Resident Card, or other immigration documents.

4. Proof of Massachusetts Residency: Utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement showing your Massachusetts address.

5. Parental Consent (if under 18): Signed consent from a guardian or parent.

Make sure all documents are original or certified copies.

Process

Here’s the process to get a Massachusetts learner’s permit:

1. First, select your identification type. You can choose between a REAL ID permit, which is valid for federal purposes, or a Standard permit, which isn’t.

2. Put together your documents (mentioned above).

3. Fill out the learner’s permit application online or at a Massachusetts RMV service center. It’s preferable to do it online to get a jumpstart on the licensing process.

4. Visit an RMV service center to apply in person. Bring your application form and the required documentation.

5. If you are under 18, you will require parental consent. Make sure to obtain signed consent from a parent or guardian.

6. Pay the $30 fee for the learner’s permit. Many payment methods, including cash, money orders, checks, and debit or credit cards, are accepted. However, it’s a good idea to verify the payment methods are accepted at the location. Upon failing the written exam, you'll need to repay the fee to retake it.

7. Take and clear the vision test. You can skip the vision test if you provide an RMV vision screening certificate.

8. Get your photo and signature taken electronically. Make sure to keep a natural expression.

9. Take the written knowledge test and pass it (preferably on your first attempt). The test is available on walk-ins once your application has been submitted. Read the handbook thoroughly and take multiple practice tests to prepare. If you fail, you can retake the test as soon as you’re ready.

10. Once you pass the test and pay the fee, you’ll receive your Massachusetts learner’s permit.

Learner’s Permit Restrictions

Follow these restrictions to comply with the permit regulations and ensure driving safety.

1. Supervised Driving

Learners are only allowed to drive with a 21 and above licensed adult in the front passenger seat.

2. Passenger Limit

Only one non-family member passenger is allowed in the vehicle. That is unless you’re accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older.

3. Nighttime Driving

Driving is prohibited between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed adult.

4. Cell Phone Use

Even with hands-free capability, you cannot use a cell phone or other electronic devices while driving.

5. Seat Belts

All passengers must wear seat belts at all times.

Stage 2: How to Get Your MA Junior Operator License

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Massachusetts junior operator license, you must:

• Be between 16 ½ and 18 years old

• Be a resident of Massachusetts

• Hold a learner’s permit

Validity

A Massachusetts Junior Operator License (JOL) is valid until you turn 18. At that point, it automatically converts into a full adult driver's license. That is only if you have no outstanding violations or suspensions.

Documents Required

To apply for a Massachusetts Junior Operator License (JOL), you'll need the following documents:

1. Learner's Permit: A valid Massachusetts learner's permit

2. Proof of Identity: U.S. Passport or Birth Certificate

3. Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or a pay stub with your full SSN.

4. Proof of Lawful Presence: U.S. Passport, Permanent Resident Card, or other immigration documents.

5. Proof of Massachusetts Residency: Utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement showing your Massachusetts address.

6. Driver's Education Certificate: Completion certificate from a Massachusetts RMV-approved driver’s education program.

7. Supervised Driving Log: A completed driving log documenting at least 40 hours of supervised driving (30 hours if you completed a driver skills development program).

8. Parental Consent (if under 18): Signed consent from a guardian or parent.

Make sure all documents are original or certified copies.

Process

Here’s the process to get a Massachusetts JOL:

1. Hold your learner’s permit for at least six months without any violations. If your permit gets suspended, the 6-month period resets once the suspension is lifted.

2. Enroll in a driver education program at a public high school or a licensed driving school. Finish 30 hours of classroom instruction, 12 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and 6 hours of observing other drivers. Once completed, you’ll receive a driver education certificate.

3. Get your guardian or parent to verify that you’ve completed 40 hours of supervised driving. If you took a driver skills development program, 30 hours of supervised driving will suffice.

4. Your guardian or parent must attend two hours of instruction on the driver’s education curriculum unless they’ve done so in the past five years.

5. Pay the $35 fee for your JOL online before or after your road test. If you pay in advance, your license will be mailed automatically after clearing the test.

6. Schedule your MA driving test by calling 866-627-7768 or booking an appointment online. You can cancel or reschedule online or through the RMV Contact Center as long as you give over 72 hours' notice. Be aware that road tests might be canceled due to bad weather.

7. Bring your completed road test application, learner’s permit, and required documentation.

8. Show up for your road test with a qualified sponsor in a registered and equipped vehicle. If you pass, your learner’s permit will be stamped and serve as your temporary license. Your permanent one will arrive in the mail within four weeks.

9. After passing your road test, you’ll receive your official license in the mail within four weeks. If it doesn’t arrive, contact the RMV.

Junior Operator License Restrictions

Here are the key restrictions for a Massachusetts Junior Operator License (JOL):

1. Driving Restrictions

You are prohibited from driving between 12:30 AM and 5:00 AM unless with a parent or legal guardian.

2. Passenger Restrictions

For the first six months, you cannot drive with any passengers under 18 except for immediate family members. This restriction is waived when traveling with a licensed adult (21 or older) sitting next to you.

3. No Use of Mobile Devices

You are prohibited from using any mobile or electronic device while driving, even if it’s hands-free.

4. Speeding and Traffic Violations

Any speeding ticket will result in a mandatory license suspension. Other serious traffic violations can also lead to suspension and require you to complete additional courses or exams.

5. No Commercial Driving

You cannot operate any commercial vehicles with a JOL.

Stage 3: How to Get Your Massachusetts Full Driver’s License

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Massachusetts full driver’s license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Hold a learner’s permit

• Be a resident of Massachusetts

Validity

A Massachusetts full driver’s license is valid for five years. The expiration date is set on your birthday and printed on the front of the license.

Documents Required

You only need your learner’s permit to get your MA adult driver's license.

Process

Here's how to get your Massachusetts driver’s license:

1. Schedule your road test online or call the RMV Automated Service Line at 866-627-7768. You can cancel or reschedule online or through the RMV Contact Center with no extra fees if you give more than 72 hours notice.

2. Pay the $35 test fee online before or after your test. If you’ve paid, your driver's license will be sent to you automatically after you pass, so there is no need to visit an RMV Service Center.

3. Bring a completed road test application and your learner's permit. If you obtained your permit before March 26, 2018, you might need to provide additional documents to prove your U.S. citizenship or lawful presence. This is necessary whether you're applying for a Standard Driver's License or a REAL ID.

4. Pass the road test. Come with a qualified and licensed sponsor. Your vehicle must be registered and equipped. If you don’t pass, you can reschedule, but you’re limited to six attempts in a 12-month period.

5. If you pass, the examiner will stamp your learner’s permit, which will act as a temporary driver’s license. Keep an eye out for your mail, as your permanent license will arrive within four weeks. If you’re over 21 and your photo was taken when you were under 21, you’ll need to visit a service center to get your license. If your license doesn’t arrive after four weeks, contact the RMV.

MA Adult Driver’s License Restrictions

In Massachusetts, adult drivers (18 years or older) with a full driver's license have fewer restrictions. However, there are still some important rules to follow:

1. No Mobile Device Use

Using a handheld mobile device while driving is illegal, except in emergencies. Hands-free use is allowed, but it's best to limit distractions.

2. Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited. A first offense can result in fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs.

3. Seatbelt Use

All drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts. Failure to do so can result in fines.

4. Traffic Violations

Accumulating a certain number of points from traffic violations can lead to increased insurance rates, fines, and even license suspension.

Massachusetts Written Knowledge Test

The MA written knowledge test is a critical step in getting your learner’s permit and driver’s license. Inspired by the Driver’s Handbook or vice versa, the written exam aims to test your knowledge of the state’s road rules, road signs, and traffic regulations.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Massachusetts written test: