How to get a Massachusetts Driver's License
Find out how to get a new MA driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this Massachusetts DMV guide.
The Rules
Under MA DMV guidelines, you must be 16 and 1/2 to obtain a Massachusetts driver's license.
All applicants need to be familiar with the Massachusetts Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
If this is your first driver's license, you will need to apply for a Massachusetts learners permit which requires a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
Once you receive a valid learners permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test in addition to vision and hearing tests to receive an MA drivers license.
Applicants under 18 must have held a learners permit for 6 months and log 12 hours of supervised driving time before taking the road skills test.
New MA Residents
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain a Massachusetts driver's license upon establishing a permanent residence in MA. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
There is no written exam or road skills testing required to change a valid out-of-state license to an MA driver's license, however you will need to pass the vision test.
If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than one (1) year but less than four (4), you will be required to take a written test for the class license you are trying to transfer. If your license has been expired more than four (4) years, a full test - written and road - plus an eye test will be required.
International Drivers
If you are converting a license from a country other than Canada, Mexico or one of the US Territories, you must take the full - written and road - test plus the eye test.
Paperwork
Before you head to the Massachusetts DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class D Driver's License will be valid for up to five (5) years and is issued to expire on your birthday. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
Massachusetts Driver's Manual |
