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License Renewal in MA: What to Do!  

  • Driver's License
  • Gerard Stevens
  • 7 minutes

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Massachusetts is a state with tough license requirements. Good job if you’ve succeeded in getting a MA driver’s license. But, you may always feel the hassle when it’s time for license renewal in MA. But is that hard to renew a license in MA? 

Though it’s necessary, all drivers feel that renewing their driver’s license is time-consuming and irritating. But with the introduction of various renewal modes, the license renewal process has become very easier. Massachusetts driver’s license renewal is easy if you know what to do.  

It is crucial to renew your driver’s license in Massachusetts if you’re particular about avoiding unwanted penalties or jail time. So, when and how should you do license renewal in MA? How much will it cost to renew a license in MA? Continue reading our blog to know how simple the renewal process can be!  

How often should you do license renewal in MA? 

A Massachusetts driver’s license is valid for years. You can renew a license in MA up to one year before the expiration date. However, you may need to retake the driving and written tests if your license remains expired for over two years. The process requires you to renew the license every 15 years or if you’re over 75.  

Find affordable auto insurance in Massachusetts

How do I renew my license in MA? 

You can renew a license in MA without much trouble due to the longer validity period and lenient grace period. First, however, a driver must fulfill the following criteria for license renewal in MA. 

  • Your age should be under 75 
  • Should possess a driver’s license that isn’t suspended or revoked 
  • Possess a debit or credit card, a checking account, or both 
  • Use an active mobile number or e-mail address 
  • Produce evidence of your citizenship or authorized presence 
  • You shouldn’t have outstanding penalties, child support, infractions, or excise taxes 

If there are any unsettled tickets or taxes, you must pay them all and obtain a receipt as proof of your payment. You have two options for renewing your license in Massachusetts: online or in-person. Active military personnel and dependents stationed out of state can renew their licenses by mail.  

How to renew a license online  

Massachusetts driver's license
Image courtesy: https://www.mass.gov/

Not all drivers in Massachusetts can do an online license renewal. For example, suppose you don’t need a name change and aren’t due for physical renewal. In that case, the best way of renewal is via the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) website. In addition, you should do a license renewal in MA in person if your ID is older than 14 years old or if it was due to expire two years ago. However, renewing your driver’s license online is a fairly simple procedure if you are eligible.  

Steps to follow 

  • Collect the necessary documents. 
  • Visit the RMV’s official website. 
  • In the myRMV Online Service Center, click ‘Renew My Driver’s License.’ 
  • Complete the verification form (particularly the fields marked in red). 
  • Select a two-factor authentication method (mobile number, e-mail address, or app). 
  • Double-check whether the transaction details are accurate. Click next after verifying.  
  • Under the Federally Compliant ID Selection, select the License/ID option. 
  • Check your address and contact information.  
  • Provide your voter’s and demographic information.  
  • Upload any document that validates your legal presence. 
  • Then answer the compulsory questions by choosing the best option. 
  • Check the renewal fee and choose a payment mode (card or bank account). 

You will receive a temporary paper license after completing the renewal process and paying the $50 fee until you receive your permanent one via mail in about 10-14 days. 

Things to be careful about 

It is best to avoid driving if your license expires while waiting for the new one. Getting caught with an expired license can earn you hefty penalties or jail time.  

How to renew a license in-person  

You can complete an in-person renewal at an RMV branch. Always consult the myRMV Online Service Center for information on finding a location and scheduling an appointment, as appointments are occasionally necessary. In-person license renewal in MA is a must if you’re already 14 years old or don’t have a Social Security Number. 

What documents do I need to renew my license in MA? 

  • A filled out application for an ID card, learner’s permit, or driver’s license. 
  • Proof verifying your US citizenship or lawful presence.  
  • Proof of your residency in Massachusetts. It can be any utility or mortgage bills issued within the last two months or any documents issued by the RMV. 
  • Present the Social Security card or W-2 form that proves your Social Security Number (SSN).  
  • The renewal fee.  

Eligibility 

You can renew your license in person if you fulfill the following criteria. 

  • It is your first driver’s license renewal, or you’re requesting a real ID for the first time.  
  • Your age is above 75. 
  • It’s been 15 years since you made the last in-person renewal. 
  • You want to change your name on the license. 

What you need to do 

  • Try to get an appointment in advance. 
  • Then visit a nearby RMV Service Center facility.  
  • Take the required tests if needed. Be ready to take a vision test, at least.  
  • Double-check your name, address, and other information, and make any changes if needed. 
  • Pay the license renewal fee. You can make the payment via credit card, debit card, or check. 

On completing these procedures, you will receive a temporary paper license. You can use this until your official card arrives, which should arrive within 15 days.  

How much to renew a license in MA? 

License renewal in MA will cost you $50.  

How long will it take for a Massachusetts driver’s license renewal?  

Ideally, you should receive your new license within 10-15 days. You will get a temporary paper license once you complete the renewal procedures. Use this temporary one until the new license arrives.  

Can I renew my license at AAA in MA? 

AAA members can do many RMV-related transactions at the AAA facilities. It includes replacing your driver’s license and renewing your Class D and Class M driver’s licenses. You can find the list of services here 

Can I renew my license early in MA? 

Yes. A driver needs to do a license renewal in MA every five years. However, they can renew it one year before the expiration date.  

Is there a grace period for license renewal in MA? 

Yes, You can renew your driver’s license up to two years after expiration. If it expires for more than two years, you must take the learner’s permit exam and road test. 

Getting auto insurance in Massachusetts  

Drivers in MA know how tough it is to get a driver’s license. And driving without one can get you hefty penalties and even jail time. It can even get worse if you don’t have auto insurance. So, it is best to have an insurance policy if you love to drive in MA. 

And, it isn’t a secret that drivers in Massachusetts need to pay higher insurance premiums. So, it will be a challenge for you to find affordable auto insurance that gives decent coverage. Don’t worry! Way.com can help you find reasonable Massachusetts insurance quotes that offer you ample coverage.  

Visit Way, compare quotes from various insurers, and buy the cheapest insurance policy.  

Save nearly $971 on auto insurance in MA


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