Book your appointment online through the RMV website or by phone at 1-857-368-8000

Massachusetts requires you to schedule an appointment before renewing your license at a Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) branch. You cannot walk in without one. The fastest way is the RMV's online appointment system at mass.gov/rmv — you can pick your location and time slot when ready. If you prefer to book by phone, call 1-857-368-8000 during business hours; a representative will find available times and confirm your appointment.

When you book, have your current license number and the zip code where you want to renew ready. The system will show you which branches have openings and let you choose a date and time that works for you. Appointments typically fill up several weeks ahead, especially at popular locations, so booking early gives you more options.

Key Takeaways

  • You must schedule an appointment online at mass.gov/rmv or by calling 1-857-368-8000 before visiting an RMV branch.
  • Online booking is faster and shows all available time slots at once, while phone booking requires speaking with a representative.
  • Bring your current license, proof of residency, and any required medical forms to your appointment.
  • If you cannot make your scheduled time, cancel through the website or by phone so someone else can use the slot.

What you need before booking

Have your current Massachusetts driver's license number handy — the system asks for it to pull up your record. You will also need to know which RMV branch you want to visit. Massachusetts has branches in Boston, Watertown, Medford, Brockton, Springfield, Leominster, and several other cities. If you do not have a preference, the online system shows wait times at each location so you can pick the one with the shortest appointment availability.

If you are renewing after your license has expired, you may need to bring additional documents to your appointment, such as proof of residency or a medical form if you are over 75. Checking the RMV website before booking tells you exactly what to bring based on your situation.

Online appointment booking step by step

Go to mass.gov/rmv and look for the "Schedule an Appointment" link on the homepage. Click it and select "License Renewal" as your transaction type. Enter your current license number and the zip code of the branch where you want to renew. The system will show you all available appointments at branches near that location, sorted by date.

Choose your preferred date and time from the list. You will then confirm your name, address, and phone number. The system will send you a confirmation email with your appointment details, including the branch address, date, time, and what documents to bring. Save this email or take a screenshot — you will need to show it when you arrive.

Phone appointment booking

Call 1-857-368-8000 and tell the representative you want to schedule a license renewal appointment. Have your current license number ready. The representative will ask which branch you prefer and what dates work for you. They will then check availability and book the first open slot that matches your preferences.

After booking by phone, you will receive a confirmation number. Write it down and ask the representative to repeat it. You should also receive a confirmation email within a few hours. If you do not get an email within 24 hours, call back to confirm your appointment was entered correctly.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring your current Massachusetts driver's license, even if it has expired. You will also need one form of proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address dated within the last 60 days. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

If you are over 75, bring a completed medical form signed by your doctor. If you wear corrective lenses, bring your glasses or contacts. The RMV may ask you to remove them for your photo, but they want to know you use them. Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return.

If you need to cancel or reschedule

If your appointment time no longer works, cancel it as soon as you know. Log back into mass.gov/rmv with your confirmation number and select "Cancel Appointment," or call 1-857-368-8000 to cancel by phone. Canceling frees up the slot for someone else and lets you book a new time that fits your schedule better.

Do not straightforward skip your appointment. If you miss it without canceling, the RMV may require you to wait longer before booking your next slot. If you are running late on the day of your appointment, call the branch directly to let them know — they may be able to hold your spot or reschedule you for later that day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I book an appointment?

You can typically book appointments up to 30 days ahead through the online system. If you need an appointment sooner, call 1-857-368-8000 to see if any same-week or next-week slots are available. Popular branches fill up faster, so booking as early as the system allows gives you more choices.

What if no appointments are available at my preferred branch?

Try booking at a different branch, even if it is farther away. Less busy locations often have more open slots. You can also check back daily — cancellations happen regularly and new slots open up. Setting a phone reminder to check the website at the same time each day can help you catch newly available times.

Can someone else schedule an appointment for me?

Yes, another person can book your appointment online or by phone if they have your license number and know which branch you prefer. However, you must be the one who shows up to the appointment — the RMV will not renew a license for someone who is not present.

What happens if I miss my appointment?

If you do not show up and do not cancel, you will need to book a new appointment. The RMV may place you at the back of the queue, meaning longer wait times for your next available slot. Always cancel if you cannot make it so the appointment opens for someone else.

Do I need to bring my appointment confirmation email?

Yes, bring your confirmation email or a printed copy showing your appointment date, time, and branch location. You can also show the confirmation number on your phone. The RMV staff will check this when you arrive to verify you have an appointment.