What You Need to Know About Andover Driver Licenses
Andover, Massachusetts does not issue its own driver licenses. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) issues all driver licenses in the state, regardless of where you live. If you live in Andover or need to renew a license while in Andover, you will work with the RMV, not a local Andover office.
The closest RMV service center to Andover is in Lawrence, about 10 miles away. You can also visit the RMV location in Leominster or use the RMV's online services for certain transactions. This guide covers what documents you need, which RMV location to visit, and how long the process takes.
Key Takeaways
- Andover residents obtain driver licenses through the Massachusetts RMV, not through a local Andover office.
- The Lawrence RMV service center is the nearest location to Andover and handles standard license applications and renewals.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or tax identification number to obtain a license.
- Massachusetts offers online renewal for some licenses, which can save you a trip to an RMV office.
- First-time applicants must pass a written test, vision test, and road test before receiving a full license.
Documents You Need for an Andover Driver License
The RMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Massachusetts residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You cannot complete your process without all three.
For proof of identity, bring a U.S. passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate. If you use a birth certificate, you must also bring a second form of ID such as a school ID, military ID, or work ID. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days and showing your Andover address. A bank statement or insurance policy also works if it shows your current address.
If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted. If any document is not in English, bring a certified English translation along with the original.
Where to Go in or Near Andover
The Lawrence RMV Service Center, located at 1 Monarch Drive in Lawrence, is the nearest full-service location to Andover. This office handles new license applications, renewals, road tests, and written tests. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., though you should confirm current hours on the RMV website before you go.
You do not need an appointment for most transactions at the Lawrence office, but wait times can be 30 minutes to two hours depending on the day and time. The RMV recommends arriving early in the morning or on Tuesday through Thursday to avoid peak crowds. If you prefer a different location, the Leominster RMV Service Center is about 20 miles away and offers the same services.
For some transactions — such as renewing a license that is not expiring soon or updating your address — you can use the RMV's online portal at mass.gov/rmv without visiting an office. Check the RMV website to see which services are available online for your specific situation.
Steps for a New License in Andover
If you are obtaining your first Massachusetts driver license or moving to Andover from another state, you must pass three tests: a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a road test. The process typically takes several weeks from start to finish.
Step 1: Pass the written test. Visit the Lawrence RMV office with your documents. You will take a 25-question multiple-choice test on Massachusetts traffic laws and road signs. You must score at least 18 out of 25 to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages. After you pass, the RMV will issue you a learner's permit, which allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car.
Step 2: Practice and schedule your road test. With your learner's permit, you must practice driving for at least six months before you can take the road test. During this time, you must always have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat with you. You can schedule your road test online through the RMV website or by calling the Lawrence office.
Step 3: Take the road test. The road test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws. You must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving. If you pass, you receive your full driver license on the spot.
Renewing Your Andover Driver License
Massachusetts driver licenses expire every five years. The RMV sends a renewal notice to your address about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at the Lawrence RMV office.
Online renewal: If your license is not expiring due to a medical condition, a name change, or a change in vision correction, you can renew online at mass.gov/rmv. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Mail renewal: Complete the renewal form from your renewal notice and mail it with a check or money order to the RMV. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. You do not need to visit an office unless the RMV requests additional documents.
In-person renewal: Visit the Lawrence RMV office with your renewal notice, current license, and proof of residency if your address has changed. You will have your vision checked and can receive your new license when ready or by mail, depending on the RMV's processing time that day.
Fees and Payment Methods
The cost of a new Massachusetts driver license is $50 for a five-year license. Renewal costs $50 for a five-year license. If you renew online, the fee is $45. The RMV accepts cash, check, money order, debit card, and credit card at the Lawrence office. Online renewal requires a credit or debit card.
If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, the fee is $25. If you need to correct information on your license, such as your name or address, there is no fee if you do it at the time of renewal, but a $25 fee applies if you make the change outside of renewal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring photocopies of your documents. The RMV requires originals or certified copies. If you bring a photocopy, you will be turned away and must return another day with the correct documents.
Do not assume your out-of-state license will transfer automatically. Massachusetts requires you to pass the written test and road test even if you held a valid license in another state. The only exception is if you are moving from another state and your license is still valid — you can exchange it for a Massachusetts license without retesting, but you must do this within 30 days of establishing residency.
Do not wait until your license expires to renew. If your license expires, you cannot legally drive, and you will have to retake the written and road tests to restore it. Renew at least 30 days before your expiration date.
Do not forget your proof of insurance when you take your road test. You cannot take the test without it, and you will lose your test fee if you show up without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Andover license online if I wear glasses?
Yes. Wearing glasses or contacts does not prevent online renewal. You can renew online as long as your license is not expiring due to a medical condition, a name change, or a change in your vision correction prescription. If your prescription has changed significantly, the RMV may ask you to renew in person so they can verify your vision.
How long does it take to get a license after I pass the road test?
If you pass the road test at the Lawrence RMV office, you receive your license when ready in most cases. However, if the office is processing a backlog, you may receive it by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Ask the RMV staff at the time of your test whether you will receive it same-day or by mail.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no fee to retake the test. You have unlimited attempts, but you must pass before you can move on to the road test. Most people pass on the second or third attempt.
Do I need an appointment at the Lawrence RMV office?
Appointments are not required for most services, but the RMV recommends arriving early to avoid long waits. You can check wait times online before you go. For road tests, you must schedule an appointment in advance through the RMV website or by phone.
Can I get a Real ID license in Andover?
Yes. A Real ID license meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. You need the same documents as a standard license, plus proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return). Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses and are issued at the Lawrence RMV office.