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How to Get a Massachusetts State ID Card: A Complete Guide

Learn how to get a Massachusetts state ID card with our step-by-step guide. Understand the requirements, application process, and important tips.

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A Massachusetts state ID card is a great option for eligible residents who aren’t licensed drivers but still want a valid form of identification or proof of residency in the state. This guide will share eligibility requirements, the application process, and acceptable documents for getting a state ID card in Massachusetts.

What Is a Massachusetts State ID Card?

An option for those who do not have a Massachusetts driver's license, a Massachusetts state ID card can be used as an official form of identity. The card will include your name and date of birth as well as your photo and signature. State ID cards can serve as a form of identity and a voter ID card.

These identification cards are an ideal option for state residents who do not have or do not wish to get a driver's license. You can think of them as a non-driver's license ID, sharing much of the same information without conferring the privilege of driving on Massachusetts roads.

Eligibility Requirements for a Massachusetts State ID Card

The eligibility requirements for a Massachusetts state ID card include the following:

  • You must be at least 14 years old.
  • You must be a resident of Massachusetts.
  • You cannot have a driver's license in Massachusetts or any other state.

This can be a useful form of identification for minors and non-citizens who need proof of identity and residence as well as seniors and others who choose not to drive and therefore don't need a driver's license.

Required Documents for Obtaining a Massachusetts State ID

To apply for a state ID in The Bay State, you will need to prove that you are a U.S. citizen or have lawful presence in the state and provide proof of state residency and your Social Security number.

To that end, you can bring in an original copy of one of the following key identification documents:

  • Your U.S. valid passport or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa affixed
  • An original or certified version of your U.S. birth certificate
  • A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) issued by the Department of State Form FS-240, DS-1350, FS-545
  • Your Permanent Resident Card issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I-551
  • Temporary I-551 stamp in a foreign passport
  • An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Form I-766

If you are a foreign driver looking to get a U.S. driver's license, you do have options under the Work and Family Mobility Act.

How To Apply for a Massachusetts State ID Card

How can you get a Massachusetts state ID card? You can start the ID card application process online.

After you fill out the online form, you will need to visit a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) site to complete the process. You can also make this appointment online.

An RMV Service Center can help you with everything from a Massachusetts state ID card to driver's license replacement in Massachusetts and more.

Fees for Obtaining a Massachusetts State ID Card

The fee for a Massachusetts ID card is $5 per year, up to $25 for an ID card valid for five years.

What To Do if Your Massachusetts State ID Is Lost or Stolen

If your state ID card is lost or stolen, you should report the loss to the police department to help prevent fraud.

It is easy to order a replacement card online, although there will be a $25 replacement fee. You will also need to provide your name, date of birth, ID number or the last four digits of your Social Security number, and email address as well.

If you prefer to handle this process by phone, you can call:

  • 857-368-8000 from area codes 339, 617, 781, and 857, or from outside the state of Massachusetts
  • 800-858-3926 from all other Massachusetts area codes

If your current Massachusetts state ID card expires in less than one year, you can also renew it online as well as renew a driver's license online in Massachusetts, if applicable.

Updating Personal Information on Your Massachusetts State ID

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or other circumstances, you will need to make an appointment to visit an RMV Service Center. This requires an in-person visit and cannot be managed online.

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If you are moving from a Massachusetts state ID card to a Massachusetts driver's license, it is time to look for affordable car insurance. You can get a custom quote in just minutes from EverQuote, which gives you the ability to review your options and find the best insurance for your car, home, and more. Check out EverQuote to get started with affordable insurance today.

FAQs

How do I get a Massachusetts ID card?
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You can begin the application process for an ID online. Then gather all of the required documents and visit an RMV Service Center to get your Massachusetts ID card.
How much does a Massachusetts state ID cost?
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A Massachusetts state ID costs $5 per year, up to $25 for five years.
What documents do I need to get my REAL ID in Massachusetts?
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To get a REAL ID in Massachusetts, you will need the following documents:
  • A U.S. birth certificate, passport, or other document that verifies your identity and birth date
  • A Social Security card or W-2 that indicates your full Social Security number
  • 2 documents that provide proof of residency (such as a mortgage bill, rental agreement, or utility bill)
  • Proof of lawful presence
Does a Massachusetts REAL ID replace a passport?
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No, a REAL ID does not replace your passport. You will still need your passport if you plan to travel internationally, but a REAL ID Massachusetts ID card can be used for flying domestically and visiting federal buildings.