What the RMV renewal process looks like

The Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is Massachusetts's licensing authority. To renew your driver's license through the RMV, you can do it online, by mail, or in person at an RMV office. The method you use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you need to update your address or other information.

Most people renew online through the RMV website — it takes about 10 minutes, costs $50 for a five-year license, and you receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot renew online, you can mail in a renewal form or visit a branch in person. In-person visits are slower because RMV offices have long wait times, but they are necessary if you need to update your photo, correct your name, or handle other changes that the online system cannot process.

Your license must not be expired or suspended to renew it. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot use the standard renewal process — you will need to reapply as if getting a new license, which includes a written test and road test. If your license is suspended, you must resolve the suspension before you can renew.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the RMV website is the fastest method and works for most people whose licenses are still valid and not suspended.
  • You need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
  • Mail-in renewal takes longer but works if you cannot visit an office or access the online system.
  • If your license expired more than two years ago or is suspended, you cannot use the standard renewal process and must contact the RMV directly.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after online or mail renewal; in-person renewal is faster but requires a visit to an RMV office.

Renewing online through the RMV website

Online renewal is available at mass.gov/rmv. You will need your current Massachusetts driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card. The system will ask you to confirm your address and other information on file. If everything is correct, you pay $50 and submit. The entire process takes about 10 minutes.

You are not may be able to access to renew online if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked; if you need to change your name, address, or photo; or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL). You also cannot renew online if your license was issued outside Massachusetts or if you have an outstanding ticket or fine with the RMV.

After you submit your online renewal, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your old license until the new one arrives. If you do not receive your license within 10 business days, contact the RMV at 857-368-8000 to check the status.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works if you cannot access the online system or prefer not to visit an office. You will need to read and print the renewal form from mass.gov/rmv or request one by calling 857-368-8000. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $50 made payable to "Registrar of Motor Vehicles," and mail it to the RMV address listed on the form.

Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — typically 4 to 6 weeks from the time the RMV receives your form. You cannot change your photo, name, or address by mail. If you need to update any of these, you must renew in person or contact the RMV to find out whether you can make the change online before submitting your renewal.

Keep a copy of the form you mail and note the date you send it. If you do not receive your new license within 6 weeks, call the RMV to confirm they received your form and to check the status of your renewal.

Renewing in person at an RMV office

In-person renewal is necessary if you need to update your photo, change your name, correct your address, or if you are not able to renew online or by mail. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). You will also need to pay $50.

RMV offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have extended hours on certain days. Wait times vary widely — some offices have waits of 30 minutes, others can be two hours or more. You can check current wait times on the RMV website before you go. Some RMV offices allow you to reserve a time slot online, which can reduce your wait.

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. The staff member will verify your information, take a new photo, and process your renewal. You will pay $50 and receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed to you. Your new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What to do if your license is expired or suspended

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply for a new license. This means taking a written test and a road test, just as if you were getting your first license. Contact the RMV at 857-368-8000 or visit mass.gov/rmv to find out how to schedule these tests.

If your license is suspended, you cannot renew until the suspension is lifted. Suspensions are usually caused by unpaid tickets, failure to pay child support, failure to pay court fines, or a medical condition reported to the RMV. Contact the RMV to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do to resolve it. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew using the standard process.

Updating your address or other information

If you moved and need to update your address, you can do this online through the RMV website if you are not renewing your license yet. Go to mass.gov/rmv and select "Change of Address." You will need your license number and Social Security number. The change takes effect when ready and does not require a new license to be issued.

If you need to change your name, photo, or other information on your license, you must do this in person at an RMV office or by mail. You cannot make these changes online. If you are renewing your license at the same time, you can make the change as part of the renewal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you submit your online renewal. You can continue to drive on your old license until the new one arrives. If you do not receive it within 10 business days, contact the RMV at 857-368-8000.

Can I renew my license if it is already expired?

If your license expired less than two years ago, you can still renew it using the standard process. If it expired more than two years ago, you must reapply for a new license, which includes a written test and road test. Contact the RMV to find out how to schedule these tests.

What if I need to change my photo when I renew?

You cannot change your photo online or by mail. You must renew in person at an RMV office. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. The staff will take a new photo as part of the renewal process.

Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person?

Some RMV offices allow you to reserve a time slot online, which can reduce your wait time. Check the RMV website to see if your local office offers this option. If not, you can walk in and take a number, but wait times vary and can be long during busy hours.

What happens if my license is suspended?

You cannot renew your license while it is suspended. Contact the RMV to find out why it is suspended and what you need to do to resolve it. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew using the standard process.