Massachusetts driver's licenses expire every five years, and you can renew yours online, by mail, or in person at an RMV office

Your Massachusetts driver's license expires on your birthday in the year shown on the card. The Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

The method you choose depends on your situation. If your license is still valid and you haven't changed your name, address, or other information, you can renew online or by mail without visiting an office. If your license has already expired, you've had a major life change, or you need a new photo, you'll need to renew in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Massachusetts licenses expire on your birthday every five years, and you can renew up to one year early through the RMV website, by mail, or at an RMV office.
  • Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $50 for a five-year license if you don't need a new photo or address change.
  • If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.
  • You'll need your current license, Social Security number, and a valid form of identification to renew, regardless of which method you choose.
  • RMV offices are often busy; scheduling an appointment online before you visit saves significant wait time.

Renewing online through the Massachusetts RMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if your circumstances haven't changed. Go to mass.gov/rmv and select "Renew a Driver's License" from the main menu. You'll need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in. The system will pull up your existing record and ask you to confirm your information.

The fee for a five-year renewal is $50 if you keep your current photo. If you want a new photo, you'll pay $75 instead, but you'll still take the photo at home using your device's camera—the RMV accepts digital photos for online renewals. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

Online renewal is not available if you've changed your name, address, or other personal information since your last license was issued. You also cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years or if you have any suspensions or restrictions on your record.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works the same way as online renewal in terms of may be able to access—your information must not have changed, and your license cannot be expired for more than two years. read the "Renewal process for Driver's License" form from mass.gov/rmv, fill it out completely, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your current license and a check or money order for $50.

Processing by mail takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date the RMV receives your process. Because of this delay, mail renewal is best if you're not in a hurry and your license won't expire within the next month or so. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the RMV to return your old license; otherwise, they'll destroy it.

Renewing in person at an RMV office

In-person renewal is required if your license has expired for more than two years, if you've changed your name or address, if you need a new photo, or if you have any active suspensions. You'll also renew in person if you want to change your address or update other information on your license.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The fee is $50 for a five-year license with your current photo, or $75 if you need a new photo.

Schedule an appointment online at mass.gov/rmv before you go. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are served first, and wait times at busy offices can exceed two hours. Appointments are usually available within one to three weeks depending on the office location.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than two years

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it—you must explore for a new one. This means you'll need to visit an RMV office in person, bring the same documents listed above, and pay the full fee for a new license ($50). You may also be required to retake the written knowledge test, depending on how long your license has been expired and your age.

The RMV's policy on retesting varies. Call the RMV at 617-351-4500 before your appointment to confirm whether you'll need to take the test. If you do, you can study using the Massachusetts Driver's Manual, available free on mass.gov/rmv.

Fees and what they cover

A standard five-year renewal costs $50 if you keep your current photo. A new photo costs an additional $25, bringing the total to $75. These fees cover the license itself and the processing. The RMV accepts cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card at offices. Online and mail renewals require check or money order for mail, or credit/debit card for online.

If you're 65 or older, you may be may be able to access for a reduced fee. Contact your local RMV office or call 617-351-4500 to confirm the current senior discount rate, as it changes periodically.

Tracking your renewal and what to do if it doesn't arrive

After you renew online or by mail, you can check the status of your license on mass.gov/rmv by entering your license number and date of birth. The status page will tell you whether your process is being processed, approved, or ready to mail.

If your new license doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe (7 to 10 days for online, 4 to 6 weeks for mail), wait a few more days and check the status again. If the status shows "approved" but you haven't received it after 14 days, call the RMV at 617-351-4500. Have your license number and date of birth ready. The RMV can remail your license or investigate whether it was lost in transit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired license while I wait for my renewal?

Yes, as long as you've submitted your renewal process before your license expired. You can drive on your expired license while your new one is being processed. If your license has already expired and you haven't applied yet, you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives.

What if I need to change my address when I renew?

You can change your address online or by mail if your license is still valid and you have no other changes to make. If you're renewing in person, tell the RMV staff about your address change and bring proof of your new address. The new address will appear on your renewed license.

Do I need a new photo every time I renew?

No. You can keep your current photo for $50, or request a new photo for $75. The RMV recommends a new photo every 10 years or after major changes in appearance, but it's your choice.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

You'll need to replace your lost license and renew it at the same time. Visit an RMV office in person with your proof of identity and address. The fee is $50 for a replacement plus renewal, or $75 if you need a new photo. You cannot do this online or by mail.

How long can I drive after my license expires if I've applied for renewal?

You can drive on your expired license for a reasonable time while your renewal is being processed—typically up to 30 days after expiration. If your renewal is delayed beyond that, contact the RMV. Do not drive if your license has been expired for more than 30 days and your renewal hasn't arrived.