Once issued, your license has a set life, may carry restriction codes, and must be backed by original identity documents. Knowing these rules saves you surprises at the counter and at renewal time.
Know the rule
A Massachusetts driver's license is valid for a maximum of five years and typically expires on your birthday.
Handbook p. 15 ↗Know the rule
A Standard license is always valid for five years. A REAL ID license can be issued for less if your authorized lawful presence is shorter (minimum 12 months); the fee is then prorated and it won't expire on your birthday.
Handbook p. 16 ↗How far ahead of the expiration date you may renew your license or ID
Handbook p. 16 ↗Know the rule
Anyone who gets or renews a license or ID while under 21 receives a vertical card marked "Under 21." It stays valid until it expires, even after you turn 21; you may get a horizontal license after your 21st birthday.
Handbook p. 16 ↗Common restriction codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| A | Use with certified driving instructor only |
| B | Corrective lenses |
| G | Daylight only |
| I | JOL limited / other |
| Q | Class D automatic transmission |
| T | Ignition interlock |
Know the rule
If you pass the vision test wearing glasses or contact lenses, your license carries the Corrective Lenses restriction (code B) and you must wear them when you drive. Every operator under 18 gets the Junior Operator restriction (code I).
Handbook p. 17 ↗Know the rule
When you apply for or renew a permit or license, you must list every state you've been licensed in for the past ten years. The RMV checks the national Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS); a match stops your application until out-of-state suspensions or convictions are resolved.
Handbook p. 13 ↗Know the rule
You cannot hold a driver's license in multiple states. Through the State-to-State program, a license or ID from another participating state is canceled when Massachusetts issues yours.
Handbook p. 13 ↗Documents you must show
| REAL ID (valid for federal purposes) | Standard (not valid for federal purposes) |
|---|---|
| 1 proof of lawful presence in the U.S. | 1 or 2 proofs of identity / date of birth |
| 2 proofs of Massachusetts residency | 1 proof of Massachusetts residency |
| 1 proof of SSN (or SSA Denial Notice + documents) | Valid SSN, SSA Denial Notice, or No-SSN Affidavit |
Know the rule
A No Social Security Number Affidavit is only allowed for certain customers and only for a Standard driver's license, never for a Massachusetts ID card.
Handbook p. 20 ↗Know the rule
All documents must be originals: photocopies and laminated documents are not accepted. You may need to show documents again for each different type of document you apply for.
Handbook p. 21 ↗Know the rule
If the SSA denied your SSN application, bring the written Denial Notice (not more than 60 days old), proof of your current visa status, an I-94 record, and your current non-U.S. passport.
Handbook p. 22 ↗Time to file an appeal after receiving a written RMV denial of a permit, license or ID application (formal appeal fee: $50)
Handbook p. 22 ↗Put it into practice
You're 20 and renew your license a month before your birthday. You'll receive a vertical "Under 21" card, and it stays valid until it expires. You don't need a new card the day you turn 21.