How to Renew Your Massachusetts Driver's License

Where to renew and what you need to bring

You can renew your Massachusetts driver's license at any RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) branch in person, or online through the Massachusetts RMV website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.

If you're renewing in person, bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current Massachusetts address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days). You do not need to bring a new photo unless your current license photo is damaged or you want to update it.

If you're renewing online, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against RMV records. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes, and your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal is available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed, and takes about 10 minutes.
In-person renewal at an RMV branch requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
Your renewed license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you renew online, or you can receive it when ready at the branch if you renew in person.
Massachusetts licenses are valid for five years, and you can renew up to one year before your expiration date.

How long your renewed license lasts

A renewed Massachusetts driver's license is valid for five years from the date of renewal. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so if your license expires on June 15, 2025, you can renew it starting June 15, 2024.

If you renew before your current license expires, your new license will be dated from the renewal date, not from your old expiration date. This means if you renew six months early, you lose those six months—your new license will expire five years from the renewal date, not five years from the old expiration date.

Renewing in person at an RMV branch

Walk into any RMV branch during business hours with your documents. You do not need an appointment for a standard renewal. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. If any of your information has changed—your name, address, or medical conditions—tell the RMV staff when you arrive.

The process takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is. You'll have a new photo taken unless you request to keep your current one. Once you're done, you can either take your new license with you when ready (if the branch has the equipment to print it on-site) or it will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. Most Massachusetts RMV branches can print licenses on-site, but call ahead to confirm.

If your license is expired, you must renew in person—online renewal is not available. If you've been without a valid license for more than a few months, the RMV may require you to pass a vision test or written exam, so ask when you call or arrive.

Renewing online through the RMV website

Go to mass.gov/rmv and select "Renew Your License" from the homepage. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to confirm your address and whether anything on your license has changed.

Online renewal is only available if all of these are true: your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions or conditions noted on your license, your address hasn't changed, and your name hasn't changed. If any of these don't explore to you, you must renew in person at an RMV branch.

Once you submit your online renewal, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

What happens if your license is expired

If your Massachusetts license has expired, you cannot renew online. You must go to an RMV branch in person. Bring the same documents as a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.

Depending on how long your license has been expired, the RMV may require you to pass a vision test or a written knowledge exam before they issue a new one. If your license expired more than five years ago, you may need to retake the full licensing exam and road test. Call the RMV branch you plan to visit to ask what they'll require based on how long your license has been expired.

Changing your address or other information during renewal

If you've moved, changed your name, or need to update medical information on your license, tell the RMV staff when you renew. If you're renewing in person, you can make these changes at the branch. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days) and proof of any name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

If you're renewing online and your address has changed, you must renew in person instead—the online system will not let you proceed if your address is different from what the RMV has on file. The same applies if your name has changed or if you need to add or remove medical restrictions.

Costs and payment methods

A five-year license renewal costs $50 in Massachusetts. If you renew in person at an RMV branch, you can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card. If you renew online, you'll pay by credit or debit card during the renewal process.

Some RMV branches may charge an additional fee if you request a duplicate license or a replacement photo, but the standard renewal fee is $50. There are no discounts for early renewal or for renewing multiple years at once—each renewal is a single five-year term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Yes. The RMV will renew your license even if you have unpaid traffic fines or tickets. However, if your license has been suspended for unpaid fines, you must clear the suspension before you can renew. Contact the court that issued the ticket to find out the status of your suspension.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You'll need to get a replacement license first before you can renew. Go to an RMV branch with proof of your identity (passport, birth certificate, or other government ID) and proof of your address. The replacement costs $50, and then you can renew when ready if your license is close to expiring, or wait until closer to the expiration date.

How do I know which RMV branch is closest to me?

Visit mass.gov/rmv and use the branch locator tool to find the nearest office, hours, and phone number. Some branches are busier than others—calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you choose when to go.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your license yourself, either in person at an RMV branch or online through the RMV website. The RMV requires your signature and photo for renewal.

What if my address changed but I haven't moved yet?

If you're moving soon but haven't moved yet, renew your license with your current address. Once you move, you can update your address at any RMV branch or by mail without renewing your license again. You have 30 days after moving to update your address with the RMV.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.