Where to renew your Massachusetts license

You can renew your Massachusetts driver's license through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in three ways: online at mass.gov/rmv, by mail, or in person at an RMV office. The online method is fastest — you can complete it in about 10 minutes and receive your renewed license by mail within two weeks. Mail renewal takes longer but requires no trip to an office. In-person renewal at an RMV office is necessary only if you cannot renew online or by mail, or if your license has been suspended or revoked.

Your renewal method depends on your license type and how long it has been expired. Standard licenses and ID cards can renew online or by mail if they expired within the last five years. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. Hardship licenses and licenses with certain restrictions require in-person renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through mass.gov/rmv is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes, with your new license arriving by mail in roughly two weeks.
  • You need your current or expired license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method to renew online.
  • Mail renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the RMV, and typically takes four to six weeks.
  • In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than five years ago, has restrictions, or if you cannot complete online or mail renewal.
  • Massachusetts charges a renewal fee that varies by license type and validity period — check mass.gov/rmv for current fees before you start.

Renewing online through mass.gov/rmv

To renew online, go to mass.gov/rmv and select the "Renew a License or ID" option. You will need your current or expired license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity using information on file with the RMV. Have a valid credit or debit card ready to pay the renewal fee.

During the online process, you will confirm your address, choose whether you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal air travel after May 2025), and review your information before submitting payment. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Your renewed license will be mailed to the address on file, typically within 10 to 14 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive.

Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended, revoked, or if you have certain medical restrictions. If the online system tells you that you cannot renew this way, you will need to renew by mail or in person.

Renewing by mail

To renew by mail, read and print the process for Renewal of License or Identification Card (Form DL 43) from mass.gov/rmv. Fill out the form completely, including your name, address, date of birth, and license number. Sign and date the form — an unsigned form will be returned to you. Include your current license with your mailed process.

Mail your completed form, your current license, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with postage if you want your old license returned to you. The RMV typically processes mail renewals within four to six weeks, though processing times can be longer during busy periods.

Keep a copy of your confirmation or the form you mailed in case you need to follow up. You can continue to drive on your current license while your renewal is being processed. If you do not receive your new license within eight weeks, contact the RMV to check the status of your process.

What happens if your license expired more than five years ago

If your Massachusetts license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must renew in person at an RMV office. Bring your expired license, a completed process for Renewal form (Form DL 43), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). You will also need to pay the renewal fee.

When you renew in person after a long expiration, the RMV may require you to pass a vision test or written exam, depending on how long your license has been expired and your age. Call your local RMV office before you go to find out what to expect and whether you need an appointment. Many RMV offices now require appointments, which you can schedule through mass.gov/rmv.

Choosing between a standard license and a REAL ID

When you renew, you can choose a standard Massachusetts driver's license or a REAL ID-compliant license. A REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and is required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025. If you do not fly or enter federal facilities, a standard license is sufficient.

Both types cost the same and are renewed the same way. If you renew online or by mail and do not specify REAL ID, you will receive a standard license. You can always upgrade to a REAL ID at your next renewal or by visiting an RMV office in person. If you choose REAL ID during online or mail renewal, you will need to verify your identity in person at an RMV office within 30 days of receiving your new license — the RMV will include instructions with your license.

Tracking your renewal and what to do if it does not arrive

If you renewed online, you received a confirmation number. Write this number down or take a screenshot. You can use it to check the status of your renewal on mass.gov/rmv by selecting "Check process Status" and entering your confirmation number and date of birth.

If you renewed by mail, keep a copy of the form you sent. If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe (two weeks for online, four to six weeks for mail), contact the RMV. You can call the RMV Customer Service line or visit an RMV office in person. Have your confirmation number or a copy of your mailed form ready. If your license is lost or damaged in the mail, the RMV can reissue it at no additional charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is currently suspended?

No. You cannot renew online or by mail if your license is suspended or revoked. You must resolve the suspension first by paying any outstanding fines, completing a required course, or meeting other conditions set by the RMV. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew. Contact the RMV to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take.

What if I moved and my address changed since my last license?

You can update your address during online or mail renewal. Online, you will be prompted to confirm or change your address before you submit payment. By mail, write your new address clearly on the process form. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide. If you need to change your address before renewing, you can update it separately through mass.gov/rmv.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person at an RMV office?

Most RMV offices require appointments for in-person transactions, including renewal. You can schedule an appointment through mass.gov/rmv. Some offices may accept walk-ins during certain hours, but calling ahead is recommended. Check the hours and policies of your local RMV office before you visit.

How long is my renewed license valid?

Massachusetts driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of issue. Your new license will expire five years after you renew it. The expiration date will be printed on your license. You will receive a renewal notice from the RMV about 60 days before your license expires.

What if I lost my current license and cannot send it with my mail renewal?

Contact the RMV before you mail your renewal process. Explain that your license is lost. The RMV may allow you to renew by mail without sending your old license, or it may direct you to renew in person. Do not send a mail renewal without your license unless the RMV has told you it is acceptable, as your process may be delayed or rejected.