To drive a motor vehicle on any public road, highway or way open to the public in Massachusetts, you need a valid driver's license, whether you live here or not. This lesson covers who may drive here, the five license classes, and the REAL ID choice.
Know the rule
All Massachusetts residents must hold a valid Massachusetts license to drive in Massachusetts. If you move here, you must get a Massachusetts license to keep your driving privileges. There is no grace period.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Visitors may drive in Massachusetts if they:
- Are U.S. residents at least 16 with a valid license from their home state or territory (includes commuters)
- Are visitors from another country, over 16, with a valid home-country license for the same vehicle type
- Carry that license while driving, plus an English translation if the foreign license isn't in English
Fine for a first offense of violating Chapter 90, Section 10 (the rules for out-of-state and foreign licenses); it is a criminal violation
Handbook p. 10 ↗Military exceptions:
- Back from active duty abroad with an Armed Forces license issued in another country: drive here up to 45 days
- Massachusetts license expired during active service: use it up to 60 days after honorable discharge
- Using that expired license? Carry it and proof of your discharge whenever you drive
Know the rule
To be eligible for a Class D or M license you must be a Massachusetts resident, at least 16, and never have had your license or right to operate revoked. Licenses are not issued to tourists, business visitors, or non-residents who own property here.
Handbook p. 11 ↗Know the rule
No one under 16 may drive in Massachusetts, even with a license or permit from a state or country that allows younger drivers. You must be at least 18 to apply for a Commercial Driver's License (Class A, B or C).
Handbook p. 11 ↗Massachusetts license classes
| Class | What it covers |
|---|---|
| A | Combinations 26,001+ lbs GCWR, towing over 10,000 lbs |
| B | Single vehicle 26,001+ lbs GVWR (may tow up to 10,000 lbs) |
| C | Built for 16+ passengers (incl. driver) or hazmat placarded |
| D | All others: cars, SUVs, family vans, small trucks |
| M | Motorcycles |
Know the rule
Classes A, B and C are commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). A higher class covers the lower ones: Class A holders may drive B, C and D vehicles (with endorsements), Class B holders C and D, and Class C holders D.
Handbook p. 15 ↗Know the rule
You choose either a REAL ID or a Standard Massachusetts license or ID. Both cost the same and carry the same driving privileges, and the age, fitness and testing requirements are identical. Only the documents required and the card markings differ.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Know the rule
To board a domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities, you need a REAL ID or another acceptable ID such as a valid passport. A Standard card is NOT acceptable for those federal purposes.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Know the rule
You may hold only one driver's license or ID card at a time. Your license is a primary form of identification, proving identity, residence, age and signature.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Put it into practice
You just moved from New Hampshire to Worcester for a new job. You can't keep driving on your New Hampshire license while you settle in: Massachusetts gives new residents no grace period, so apply for a Massachusetts license right away.