Getting a replacement license in Massachusetts

You can replace a lost Massachusetts driver's license through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation. The fastest route is the RMV website if you have a valid credit or debit card and your license hasn't expired by more than five years. If your license is older than that or you prefer not to use the online system, you'll need to visit an RMV branch office in person or mail in a paper form.

The process takes different amounts of time depending on which method you choose. Online replacement usually produces a temporary digital license within minutes and a physical card in about 7 to 10 business days. In-person visits at an RMV office typically result in a temporary paper license on the spot and a permanent card mailed within two weeks. Mail-in requests take longer — usually three to four weeks total.

Key Takeaways

  • The Massachusetts RMV website lets you order a replacement online if your license expired less than five years ago and you have a valid credit or debit card.
  • In-person replacement at an RMV office requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and a $50 fee, and produces a temporary paper license when ready.
  • Mail-in replacement uses form DL-44 and takes three to four weeks, but works if you cannot visit an office or prefer not to use the online system.
  • Massachusetts offers a temporary digital license through the RMV website that works for identification at many businesses while you wait for your physical card.

Replacing your license online through the RMV website

Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Replace a Lost or Stolen License" option under the license services section. You'll need your current Massachusetts driver's license number, your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a valid credit or debit card to pay the $50 replacement fee. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your RMV records.

Once you complete the online form and payment, you'll receive a temporary digital license when ready that you can display on your phone. This temporary license works at most businesses and government offices while you wait for your permanent card. Your physical replacement license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Keep the temporary digital license until your card arrives, since it's your proof of a valid license during that time.

The online system only works if your license expired within the last five years. If your license is older than that, you'll need to use the in-person or mail-in methods instead.

Replacing your license in person at an RMV office

Visit any RMV branch office with your Social Security number, date of birth, and $50 in cash or card payment. You do not need to bring your old license — the RMV can look up your information in their system. Bring a secondary form of ID if you have one, such as a passport, birth certificate, or utility bill with your current address, though it's not always required.

The RMV office will take your photo and issue you a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 60 days. Your permanent replacement card will be mailed to the address on file within two weeks. If your address has changed since your last license, tell the RMV staff before you leave so they mail the card to the correct location.

RMV offices are busiest on weekday mornings and Saturdays. You can check wait times on the RMV website before you go. Some offices accept walk-ins only, while others let you schedule an appointment online. Scheduling ahead usually cuts your wait time significantly.

Replacing your license by mail

read form DL-44 (process for Massachusetts Driver's License or Learner's Permit) from mass.gov/rmv or pick one up at any RMV office. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Include a check or money order for $50 made out to "Registrar of Motor Vehicles."

Mail the completed form and payment to the RMV address listed on the form. Include a copy of a secondary form of ID if possible — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address works. The RMV will process your request and mail your replacement license to the address you provided, usually within three to four weeks from the date they receive your form.

Mail-in replacement takes longer than other methods, so use this option only if you cannot visit an RMV office or prefer not to use the online system. Keep a copy of your mailed form for your records in case questions come up during processing.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, the replacement process is the same, but you may want to report the theft to local police. A police report isn't required by the RMV, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or by visiting a police station in person.

When you order your replacement through the RMV, mention that the license was stolen if you're doing it in person. The RMV doesn't take special action for stolen licenses, but noting it in your file can help if questions arise later. Your new license number will be different from the stolen one, so the old number becomes invalid once your replacement is issued.

Addressing changes when you replace your license

If your address has changed since your last license was issued, tell the RMV when you request your replacement. Online, you'll enter your new address in the form. In person, give your new address to the staff member. By mail, write your current address clearly on form DL-44. The replacement license will be mailed to whichever address you provide.

If your name has changed since your last license — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you cannot straightforward replace your lost license. You'll need to explore for a new license instead, which requires additional documents like a marriage certificate or court order. Contact the RMV directly or visit mass.gov/rmv to learn what documents you need for a name change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?

Yes. If you got your temporary license in person at an RMV office, that paper license is valid for 60 days. If you ordered online, your temporary digital license is valid when ready. Either one is legal proof of a valid license while you wait for your permanent card to arrive.

What if I don't have my Social Security number memorized?

You'll need your Social Security number to replace your license through any method — online, in person, or by mail. If you don't have it memorized, check documents like your tax return, W-2, or Social Security card. You can also contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 if you need help locating your number.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A replacement Massachusetts driver's license costs $50. This fee is the same whether you replace it online, in person, or by mail. You can pay by cash or card in person, or by card online. By mail, you must send a check or money order.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. If you're replacing your license in person, you must be present for your photo. If you're ordering by mail or online, your replacement will be mailed to the address you provide, so you don't need to pick it up in person.

What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?

Contact the RMV when ready. If the card is damaged, the RMV will send you a replacement at no charge. If there's an error on the license itself — wrong name spelling, incorrect address, or other mistakes — the RMV will correct it and reissue the card. Call the RMV customer service line or visit an office to report the problem.