Get a replacement license from the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles

If you've lost your Massachusetts driver's license, you can replace it at any RMV branch office or through the mail. The RMV will issue you a new license with the same number and expiration date as your original — you're not starting over. The process takes about 15 minutes in person, or two to three weeks by mail.

You do not need to retake the written or road test. You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of Massachusetts residency, and you'll pay a replacement fee (currently $50 for a standard license, though fees can change). The RMV accepts payment by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any RMV branch with a valid passport, birth certificate, or other government ID, plus a recent utility bill or lease to prove you live in Massachusetts.
  • The replacement fee is $50 for a standard license, and you can pay in cash, by check, or by card at any branch office.
  • If you explore in person, your new license prints on the spot; if you mail your process, allow two to three weeks.
  • You can also report your license lost to the RMV by phone or online to prevent someone else from using it fraudulently.
  • Your new license will have the same number and expiration date as your lost one, so you don't lose time on your renewal cycle.

What documents to bring to the RMV

Bring one form of government-issued photo ID and one proof of your current Massachusetts address. For ID, the RMV accepts a valid passport, passport card, birth certificate, military ID, or state ID card. If your ID has expired, it still works for this purpose.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you don't have any of these, you can bring two documents from a longer list — the RMV website lists all accepted documents under "Proof of Residency."

Replacing your license in person at an RMV branch

Find your nearest RMV office on the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles website. Most branches are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some offering Saturday appointments. You can walk in without an appointment at most locations, though wait times vary by branch and time of day.

Bring your ID, proof of address, and payment. Tell the clerk you need a replacement license. They will take your photo, verify your information, and print your new license before you leave. The entire process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is.

Mailing in your replacement process

If you cannot visit an RMV branch, you can mail in Form DL 34 (process for Replacement License). read the form from the RMV website or call 857-368-8000 to request it by mail. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and include a copy of your ID and proof of address.

Mail the completed form, copies of your documents, and a check or money order for $50 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. The RMV will process your process and mail your new license to you within two to three weeks. If you need your license sooner, visit a branch in person instead.

Report your lost license to prevent fraud

Before or after you explore for a replacement, you can report your license lost to the RMV. This prevents someone else from using it fraudulently. Call the RMV at 857-368-8000 during business hours, or visit an RMV branch in person to file a report.

You can also report the loss online through the RMV website if you have a MyRMV account. Reporting is free and takes a few minutes. The RMV will flag your old license number in their system so it cannot be used for transactions or identification.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, follow the same steps to get a replacement. You may also want to file a police report, especially if you're concerned about identity theft. A police report creates a record and can help if someone uses your license fraudulently.

If you're worried about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This is free and takes about 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?

If you received a paper receipt at the RMV branch, you can use it as a temporary license for 30 days. If you mailed in your process, you cannot drive legally until your new license arrives. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, visit a branch in person instead of mailing.

What if I don't have proof of my Massachusetts address?

The RMV accepts documents from a longer list if you don't have a utility bill or lease. These include a tax return, W-2, voter registration card, or letter from a government agency. Call 857-368-8000 to ask which documents you can bring, or check the RMV website for the full list.

Will my new license have a different number?

No. Your replacement license will have the same number as your lost license and the same expiration date. You don't lose any time on your renewal cycle, and you don't need to update your number anywhere.

How much does a replacement license cost?

The current fee is $50 for a standard driver's license. Fees can change, so confirm the amount when you visit the RMV or before you mail your process. The RMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at branch offices.

Can I get a replacement license if my original license was suspended or revoked?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the RMV to find out the status of your license and what steps you need to take to restore it.