Where to go and what you need

You can replace your Massachusetts driver's license at any RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) branch office, or by mail if your license is only slightly damaged and you don't need it urgently. The in-person route is faster — most branches can issue a replacement the same day you visit. The mail route takes two to three weeks but requires no appointment and no trip.

Before you go, gather your current identification. You'll need one document from the RMV's "List A" (your expired Massachusetts license, a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, or a naturalization certificate) and one from "List B" (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current address). If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one — it's not required, but it can speed things up.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any RMV branch office in person to replace your license the same day, or mail your process to the RMV if your license is only slightly damaged.
  • Bring one form of ID from the RMV's List A (such as a passport or birth certificate) and one document showing your current address from List B (such as a utility bill).
  • The replacement fee is $50 for a standard five-year license or $100 for a ten-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at most branches.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, a police report helps but is not required; the RMV will flag your old license as invalid either way.
  • If you need a license for a specific date — such as travel or a job start — call your local branch ahead to confirm wait times and bring all documents in one visit.

In-person replacement at an RMV branch

Walk into any Registry of Motor Vehicles branch during business hours. Most branches are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some stay open until 6 p.m. on certain days. Check the RMV website for your nearest branch location and its specific hours before you go — hours vary by location.

You do not need an appointment for a replacement license. When you arrive, take a number at the entrance and wait to be called. Bring your List A and List B documents, your Social Security number, and your current address. Tell the clerk you need a replacement license. They will take your photo, verify your information, and process your payment. The whole visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is.

You'll pay $50 for a five-year license or $100 for a ten-year license. Most branches take cash, checks, and debit or credit cards. Your new license will be printed on the spot or mailed to you within one to two weeks, depending on the branch. Ask the clerk before you leave which method they're using.

Mailing in your replacement if your license is damaged

If your license is slightly worn, faded, or has minor damage but is still readable, you can mail in a replacement request instead of visiting a branch. This route takes two to three weeks but saves you a trip.

read the "process for Duplicate License" form from the RMV website (form DL 34). Fill it out completely, including your name, date of birth, license number, and current address. Attach a check or money order for $50 (five-year) or $100 (ten-year) made out to "Registrar of Motor Vehicles." Include one document from List B showing your current address — a utility bill or lease is typical.

Mail the completed form, payment, and address document to the address listed on the RMV website for your region. Keep a copy for your records. Your replacement license will arrive by mail in two to three weeks. This method works only if your license is readable enough that the RMV can see your photo and information; if it's severely damaged or illegible, you must visit a branch in person.

What happens if your license was lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen rather than damaged, the process is the same — visit a branch or mail in your replacement request — but you have one extra step. If you filed a police report, bring a copy with you or include it with your mailed process. The report is not required, but it documents the loss and can help if someone tries to use your old license fraudulently.

The RMV will flag your old license as invalid in their system once you request a replacement, whether or not you have a police report. This means the old license cannot be used for identification or to renew your vehicle registration. If you're concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.

Timeline and what to expect after you explore

If you visit a branch in person, your new license is usually ready the same day or within one to two weeks by mail. Ask the clerk before you leave which applies to you. If you mail in your process, expect two to three weeks from the date the RMV receives it.

Your new license will have the same number as your old one and will be valid for five or ten years from the date of issue, depending on which you chose. If you need your license by a specific date — for travel, a job, or another reason — call your local RMV branch ahead of time to ask about current wait times. Some branches are busier than others, and knowing this in advance helps you plan.

If you need a temporary license to drive right away

Massachusetts does not issue temporary paper licenses while you wait for your replacement. However, if you visit a branch in person, you can drive legally for a short period after your visit using the receipt the RMV gives you. Ask the clerk how long the receipt is valid — this varies by branch but is usually 30 days.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives and you don't have a receipt, your best option is to visit a branch in person as soon as possible. Bring all your documents in one trip so the clerk can process your replacement when ready. If you're out of state or unable to visit, contact your local RMV branch by phone to ask about other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

No, Massachusetts does not offer online replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. You must either visit an RMV branch in person or mail in your process with the required documents and payment.

What if I don't have a List A document like a passport or birth certificate?

You must have one List A document to replace your license. If you don't have a passport or birth certificate, you can order a certified birth certificate from the town or state where you were born, or explore for a U.S. passport. Contact the RMV directly to ask about other List A documents that might work for your situation.

Do I need to bring my old license to the RMV?

If you still have your old license, bring it with you — it helps the clerk verify your information. If it's lost or stolen, you don't need it. The RMV will flag it as invalid in their system once you request a replacement.

Can I replace my license if it's expired?

Yes, you can replace an expired license using the same process as a lost or damaged one. Bring your expired license (if you have it) along with your List A and List B documents. Your new license will be valid for five or ten years from the date of issue.

What if I moved and my address on my license is outdated?

When you replace your license, you can update your address at the same time. Bring a List B document showing your new address, and tell the clerk you need both a replacement and an address change. There is no extra fee for updating your address.