Effective March 26, you need documentation showing U.S. Citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S. as required by federal and state laws in order to renew or get any Massachusetts driver’s license, ID or learner’s permit. You will need to present 4 different documents to verify your Social Security Number, Date of Birth and Residency.

REAL ID

This change is being implemented to comply with the federal Real ID Act of 2005, which establishes minimum security standards for state issued licenses and ID cards. Massachusetts has received a number of extensions, but all states must be in compliance by 2020. Massachusetts will be issuing two types of IDs a “standard” and a “REAL ID”.

Current “standard” MA driver’s licenses will continue to be valid until October 2020 to board a plane in the U.S. or enter a Federal Building. After that time, a “REAL ID” Massachusetts License will be needed unless you have and carry a U.S. Passport.

You may not have an immediate need for a REAL ID, and the RMV has an online tool to help you decide.  The RMV also has an online video to explain REAL ID.

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Guide to New Massachusetts Driver’s License ID and Permit Requirements