Massachusetts Driver’s License Renewal: How to Renew Online & In-Person
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
A Massachusetts driver's license is good for five years, and if you want to continue driving after that, you'll have to renew your license. Luckily, the process for a driver's license renewal in Massachusetts is fairly easy! We'll discuss your options, required documents, and other vital information in this article.
Renewal Options for a Massachusetts Driver's License
You can complete the Massachusetts driver's license renewal process in three ways: in person, online, or over the phone. Before selecting a method, you'll need to understand the rules for each.
Online Renewals
Online driver's license renewal in Massachusetts is the most convenient way to renew your license. You can access a Massachusetts driver's license application online by visiting the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) website. This site offers a number of online services and is simple to use. To renew online, you must be under 75, and your license photo must be less than 14 years old. After that, you are required to update the photo. This means you can use the online renewal form for your license two times in a row, but the third time must be done in person.
If you have an expired license, you can renew your license online if it's been expired for less than two years if you also meet the other criteria. Additionally, you must have a valid social security number to renew online.
In-Person Renewals
You can visit one of many Massachusetts driver's license renewal locations to renew your license in person. You must renew your license in person if you are 75 years or older or if your license has been expired for more than two years. If you aren't sure about the status of your license expiration, you can check your driver's license status in Massachusetts in person or on the RMV site. If you discover it's been more than two years, you will need to complete the entire application process required for a new license. One important thing to note is you can use the in-person driver's license renewal process even if you meet the criteria for online renewal.
Phone Renewals
Some RMV centers may allow phone renewals, but many centers are phasing out this option. You can call the RMV service center closest to you to ask if they allow this option.
Eligibility Requirements for License Renewal
You can renew your driver's license if you meet the proper criteria, including:
You currently have a valid Massachusetts state ID or driver's license
You have proof of lawful presence
You can provide proof of residency in Massachusetts
Your most recent license expired less than two years ago
You can choose to renew online or in person based on your situation and desires.
Required Documents for Massachusetts License Renewal
Renewing a current license before it expires is simple and doesn't require proof of identity. If you want to upgrade from a standard license to a REAL ID, you must follow the criteria for license renewal. This means you must provide all of the following:
Proof you are a legal U.S. resident by providing a birth certificate or passport
Proof of your social security number by providing your social security card
Two forms of proof that you live in Massachusetts by providing bills with your name and address
To renew from a standard license to another standard license, you only need to provide your current driver's license.
REAL ID vs. Standard License Renewal: What's the Difference?
When renewing your driver's license, you can choose from a standard license or a REAL ID. Both give you the legal right to drive, but a REAL ID is a more secure form of identification. Applying for a REAL ID requires more documentation because this form of identification meets the Federal Security Standards and can be used for domestic air travel. If you already have a REAL ID and meet the requirements for online renewal, you can renew your REAL ID online. The same is true if you have a standard license and want to renew to another standard license. However, if you want to upgrade from a standard license to a REAL ID, you must complete the renewal process in person.
Fees and Processing Times for License Renewal
The renewal fee for a standard driver's license or REAL ID is $50, and the license lasts for five years. If you are in the U.S. with lawful presence, you can apply for a shorter duration on your license. In this case, you must pay $10 per year.
When you renew your license, you will receive a receipt, which proves your license is active. However, you will not receive the new license in the mail for 10-14 days.
Update Your Massachusetts Car Insurance After Renewing Your License
Each time you renew your driver's license, it's a great opportunity to also update your Massachusetts car insurance.
EverQuote makes this process simple. We offer custom insurance quote comparisons for you based on your zip code and driver profile. It only takes a few minutes to find the best car insurance for your needs and situation.