Alert, Massachusetts! There are changes in the renewal of driver’s licenses and there are several changes to the usual process. If you are getting ready to renew your license and you do not know where to start, we are going to explain step by step how the process works and what things you have to avoid so you do not waste time.
REAL ID vs standard license:
Before doing anything, you have to choose what type of license you want: the standard one or the REAL ID. The REAL ID is the one with a little star in the corner and it allows you to fly within the United States or enter federal buildings without having to carry your passport (if you still have not heard what a REAL ID is maybe it is because you live under a rock and you do not get internet). The standard one works for driving and living normal life, but it does not give that extra level of identification.
They cost the same, last the same… but the process changes a little bit.
Renewing the standard license
If you already have a standard license or even a REAL ID and you just want to renew it without changing anything, you are in luck because you can already do everything online.
You go in, enter your data (date of birth, license number, last name and the last four of the SSN), pay… and done. In 10–14 days it arrives at your home.
But if you do not have a Social Security number, you will definitely have to go in person to the RMV. And please, make sure you are on the official page and not giving your data to anyone with bad intentions.
And the REAL ID?
If you want to convert your standard license into a REAL ID, the process starts online, but always ends in person, at whatever office.
You will need 4 mandatory documents:
- One that proves your legal presence.
- One with your Social Security number.
- Two that show you live in Massachusetts.
And it is important that you know that you have to bring the original documents or certified copies, neither a pdf nor a screenshot is valid.
Prices, validity
Most licenses (standard or REAL ID) cost 50 dollars and last 5 years.
If you have both a car and motorcycle license, it costs 65 dollars.
For those who have temporary legal status, the license lasts the same as their authorized period and the price goes in proportion, 10 dollars per year.
When to renew
- You can renew up to one year before it expires.
- If it already expired, do not panic because you still have 2 years to renew it without doing exams, but hurry.
- After those two years… you have to start from zero and you will have to take the exam again.
Reasons why you would not be able to renew
- Pending fines: They can be tickets, excise tax, EZ-Pass tolls…
- Suspended or revoked license: If it is suspended, you must resolve that first. The RMV website lets you check everything before starting, so it is better to verify and avoid surprises.
And if you are about to turn 21…
The physical format of your license depends on the age you are when you renew it.
- If you renew before turning 21, they give you the vertical license with the famous “Under 21”.
- If you wait until your birthday (or after), you get the horizontal adult one.
After paying, what happens?
The RMV sends the license to the address they have registered in their database. If by any chance 30 calendar days pass and it still does not arrive, you will have to file a claim.
It is a lot of paperwork, but now it is much simpler. You only have to know what type of license you want and bring the corresponding documentation.
Whether you upgrade to REAL ID or keep the standard license, with this guide you should avoid errors, wasted time and unnecessary trips to the RMV!