Massachusetts — Renewing your Massachusetts driver’s license on time is essential to ensure that you can legally drive in the state. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has updated its renewal process for 2025, including Real ID requirements, online renewal eligibility, and fees.
This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your Massachusetts driver’s license in 2025, including eligibility, renewal options, required documents, fees.
Eligibility for Massachusetts Driver’s License Renewal
To renew your Massachusetts driver’s license, you must:
- Have a valid or recently expired Massachusetts driver’s license.
- Be a resident of Massachusetts.
- Have a license that is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
- Have your current address on file with the RMV.
Ways to Renew Your Massachusetts Driver’s License
The Massachusetts RMV provides multiple renewal options:
1. Online Renewal
Many residents can renew their driver’s licenses online through the Massachusetts RMV website. To qualify, you must:
- Be under the age of 75.
- Have a standard driver’s license (not a commercial driver’s license requiring in-person renewal).
- Have a valid Social Security number on file with the RMV.
- Not require a new photo.
- Pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card.
2. In-Person Renewal
You must renew in person at an RMV Service Center if:
- You are 75 years or older (state law requires an in-person renewal and vision screening).
- You need to update your photo.
- You are renewing a REAL ID for the first time.
- Your license has been expired for over two years.
To renew in person, you should:
- Schedule an appointment at an RMV Service Center.
- Bring the required identification and residency documents.
- Take a new photo if necessary.
- Pass a vision test if required.
- Pay the renewal fee using an accepted payment method.
3. By Mail Renewal
Some drivers may be eligible to renew their licenses by mail if they receive a renewal notice with mail-in instructions. This option is typically available for those who do not need to update their photo or make changes to their license.
Required Documents for Renewal
When renewing your Massachusetts driver’s license, you may need the following documents:
- Proof of Identity (e.g., current driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate)
- Proof of Massachusetts Residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement)
- Social Security Number Verification (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form)
For a REAL ID, additional documents are required, including proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence and two documents verifying Massachusetts residency.
Renewal Fees
The standard renewal fees in Massachusetts are:
- $50 for a standard Class D driver’s license
- $50 for a REAL ID-compliant license
- Additional fees may apply for late renewals or duplicate licenses.
Sources:
- https://driving-tests.org/academy/renew/massachusetts
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/massachusetts-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://www.mass.gov/how-to/renew-your-drivers-license
- https://thechieftainspear.org/3118/news/massachusetts-drivers-license-renewal-2025-latest-requirements-rules/
