Drivers_Manual

Whenever you operate a motor vehicle in Massachusetts, the law requires you to carry a
valid driver’s license on your person or within easy reach inside your vehicle.
Massachusetts driver’s licenses are produced at a secure location and are generally mailed to you
within five to seven days after you visit the branch.
At the branch, you will receive a receipt that serves as a temporary license and provides proof of
driving privileges while the permanent license is being manufactured. The receipt is not valid for
identification. This means that it will not be accepted by most airlines, cruise ships, etc., for travel
as a state-issued photo ID.
Converting Your License From Another Jurisdiction
To retain driving privileges, out-of-state or foreign-licensed drivers must obtain a
Massachusetts driver’s license upon becoming a Massachusetts resident. If you currently
carry a valid license from another state, a U.S. territory, Canada, or Mexico, you may be
eligible to submit your license for conversion, but you will need to meet the RMV’s
identification requirements. (See the Identification Requirements section.) If your license
does not contain a photo, you will be required to provide additional documentation.
All applicants who convert a license from a U.S. state, U.S. territory, Canada, or Mexico must
surrender that license in order to receive a Massachusetts license.
Place of Issue
Out-of-State
14 U.S.
Territories,
Canada, or
Mexico
Other
Foreign
Countries
Requirements for New Residents
License
Status
Valid or expired less than one year
Learner’s Permit
Exam
Note: If you present any document that is inconsistent with the concept of your being a
resident of Massachusetts (such as B1 or B2 or other short term visa status, or an expired
visa status or documents showing an out-of-state residence), you will not be considered a
resident and an application for a Permit, License, or Mass ID will be denied. You may be
eligible for a Liquor ID.
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Road
Test
Driving
Record
Expired more than one year but
less than four years
a
Expired more than four years
a a
Valid or expired less than one year
a
Expired more than one year but
less than four years
a a
Expired more than four years
a a a
Valid license (with English
translation if needed)
a a