How to Renew Your Massachusetts Driver's License

The fastest way to renew in Massachusetts

You can renew your Massachusetts driver's license online through the RMV website, by mail, or in person at an RMV office. Online renewal is the quickest option — you answer questions about your information, pay the fee, and your new license arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. You are may be able to access for online renewal if your license is not expired more than five years, you have no medical conditions on file, and your address has not changed since your last renewal.

If you cannot renew online, mail-in renewal takes about two to three weeks. You fill out the process form, include your current license and a check, and send it to the RMV. In-person renewal at an RMV office is when ready — you walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive your permanent one by mail within two weeks.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through mass.gov/rmv is the fastest method and takes 7 to 10 business days if you meet the requirements.
You must renew online or in person if your address changed, your license expired more than five years ago, or you have medical conditions on file.
Mail-in renewal requires your current license, a completed process form, and payment by check, and takes two to three weeks.
In-person renewal at an RMV office gives you a temporary license when ready and your permanent license arrives by mail within two weeks.
Your new license is valid for five years from the date of renewal, and you can renew up to six months before expiration.

What you need for online renewal

To renew online, you need your current Massachusetts driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You also need a valid email address and a payment method — the RMV accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. The renewal fee is $50 for a five-year license.

Before you start, check that your address on file with the RMV matches your current address. If you moved and have not updated your address yet, you cannot complete online renewal and must go to an RMV office or renew by mail instead.

How to renew by mail

Mail-in renewal requires form DL 34, the process for Renewal of Driver's License. You can read this form from mass.gov/rmv or pick one up at an RMV office. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and include your current driver's license and a check or money order for $50 payable to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.

Mail your packet to the RMV at the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the RMV receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If your address has changed, update it on the form before you send it in, and your new license will go to your new address.

Renewing in person at an RMV office

Walk-in renewal at an RMV office does not require an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). You will also need to pay the $50 renewal fee by cash, check, or card.

When you arrive, take a number at the entrance and wait to be called. The clerk will verify your information, take a new photo, and issue you a temporary license on the spot. Your permanent license will be mailed to your address within two weeks. If you need your license for travel or identification before the permanent one arrives, the temporary license is valid for driving and most identification purposes.

When you cannot renew online or by mail

You must renew in person if your license expired more than five years ago, if you have medical conditions or restrictions on file that need review, or if your name has changed since your last renewal. You also must renew in person if you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL) or if you want to change your address, name, or other information on your license.

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the RMV directly to find out the status of your license and what steps you need to take before you can renew.

What happens after you renew

Your new license is valid for five years from the date you renew. If you renew online or by mail, you will receive your permanent license by mail at the address on file. During the time you are waiting for your permanent license, your old license remains valid for driving and identification.

If you renew in person, you receive a temporary license when ready that is valid until your permanent license arrives. Keep your temporary license with you while driving. Once your permanent license arrives, destroy your old license and temporary license — you do not need to return them to the RMV.

RMV office locations and hours

Massachusetts has 20 RMV service centers across the state. You can find the location nearest you, current hours, and wait times on mass.gov/rmv. Some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours. A few locations offer extended evening hours. Call ahead or check the website before you go, because hours change seasonally and some offices close for holidays.

If you live near the New Hampshire or Rhode Island border, you may be able to renew at an RMV office in a neighboring state if you have a valid reason and meet that state's requirements. However, your new license will be issued by that state, not Massachusetts. Most people find it simpler to renew in Massachusetts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has already expired?

Yes. If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew online, by mail, or in person. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at an RMV office. Driving with an expired license is illegal, so renew as soon as possible.

How long does the temporary license last?

The temporary license issued at an RMV office is valid until your permanent license arrives by mail, which usually takes two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving and most forms of identification. Once your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.

What if I move before my new license arrives?

If you renewed online or by mail and then moved, contact the RMV to update your address before your license is mailed. If your license is already in the mail, you can file a change of address form with the post office to forward it to your new home, or contact the RMV to have a new license mailed to your new address.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding ticket or fine?

Outstanding traffic tickets or fines do not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an unpaid criminal fine or child support obligation, your license may be suspended. Check your license status on mass.gov/rmv before you renew.

What if my name changed since my last renewal?

You must renew in person at an RMV office and bring a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The clerk will update your name in the system and issue your new license with the correct name.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.