What you need to do to replace your license in Massachusetts
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Massachusetts driver's license, you visit the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in person with proof of identity and residency. You'll pay a replacement fee (currently $50 for a standard license), complete an process form, and have your photo taken. The RMV will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot, and your new plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Massachusetts does not allow you to replace a license online or by mail, even if your old one was damaged rather than lost. The RMV requires you to appear in person so they can verify your identity and take a new photo. If you cannot reach an RMV office, some limited services are available through the RMV's online appointment system, but a replacement still requires an in-person visit.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an RMV office in person with a valid ID and proof of Massachusetts residency to replace your license.
- The replacement fee is $50, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Book an appointment through the RMV website before you go; walk-ins are accepted but wait times are often longer.
- If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police first, though this is not required by the RMV.
- Your new license will have the same number as your old one unless you request a different address or other changes.
Documents you need to bring to the RMV
Bring one form of valid photo ID (your passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license) and one document proving you live in Massachusetts. Acceptable proof of residency includes a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.
If your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or legal change), bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need to fill out the RMV's process form (Form DL 34), which you can read from the RMV website before you go or complete at the office.
How to book an RMV appointment and what to expect
Visit the Massachusetts RMV website and use their appointment booking system to reserve a time slot at the office nearest you. Appointments are free and typically available within a few days to a week. If you prefer not to book online, you can call the RMV's customer service line, though phone wait times are often longer than booking online.
When you arrive for your appointment, bring all documents listed above plus your Social Security number (you'll need it for the process). The RMV will verify your identity, check that you have no outstanding violations or suspensions, take a new photo, and process your replacement. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while you wait for your plastic card.
What happens if your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, you can report it to your local police department, though this is optional. A police report does not speed up the replacement process at the RMV, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your license fraudulently. If you suspect identity theft, you may also want to place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.
When you go to the RMV to replace a stolen license, tell the staff that it was stolen. They will note this in their system. The RMV does not issue a new license number in this situation—your replacement will have the same number as your old one. If you are concerned about fraud, monitor your driving record and credit reports for unauthorized activity.
Replacing a damaged or unreadable license
If your license is damaged but still readable, you can still use it to drive legally. However, if the damage makes it unreadable (water damage, torn barcode, faded photo), the RMV may not accept it as valid identification. In that case, you should replace it using the same process as a lost or stolen license.
Bring the damaged license with you to the RMV appointment if you still have it. The staff will take it and destroy it. If you no longer have the damaged license, straightforward tell the RMV staff when you arrive, and they will process the replacement without it. Either way, the fee and timeline remain the same.
Timeline and what to do if your card doesn't arrive
Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date of issue. Your new plastic card should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If more than two weeks have passed and you haven't received it, contact the RMV customer service line with your confirmation number from your appointment.
If your card is lost or damaged in the mail, the RMV can issue a replacement. Keep your temporary paper license until the plastic card arrives—it is your legal proof of licensure. Once your new card arrives, destroy the temporary license or keep it as a record. You do not need to return the old damaged or lost license if you no longer have it.
Cost and payment methods
The replacement fee for a standard Massachusetts driver's license is $50. The RMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. If you are replacing a license that was damaged due to an RMV error (for example, a defect in the card itself), ask the staff whether the fee can be waived—this is rare but possible.
If you are replacing a license that expired while you were overseas or unable to visit due to a documented medical hardship, you may be able to request a fee waiver. Contact the RMV before your appointment to ask whether your situation qualifies. Most replacements are charged the full $50 fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license at a different RMV office than the one in my town?
Yes. You can visit any RMV office in Massachusetts, regardless of where you live. Book your appointment at whichever office is most convenient for you. All offices have the same hours and services.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
You must provide a Social Security number to get a Massachusetts driver's license. If you do not have one, contact the RMV before your appointment to ask about alternatives. Immigrants without a Social Security number may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
Do I need to take a new photo and vision test for a replacement?
Yes, the RMV will take a new photo. You will also take a vision test to confirm you still meet the eyesight standard for driving. If you fail the vision test, the RMV will not issue the replacement until you provide a letter from an eye doctor confirming you can drive safely.
How long is my temporary paper license valid?
Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date the RMV issues it. If your plastic card has not arrived by then, contact the RMV. You can drive legally on the temporary license, and it is accepted as identification by police and other authorities.
What if I want to change my address or name on my new license?
You can request an address or name change during your replacement appointment. Bring the required documents (proof of residency for an address change, or a marriage certificate or court order for a name change). There is no additional fee to make these changes at the same time as your replacement.