Transfer your out of state learner’s permit to Massachusetts

Class D and M Learner’s Permits may be converted to an equivalent Massachusetts issued permit if you meet the RMV’s identification requirements. To be eligible for conversion, the out-of-state permit must have been issued less than two years ago. You must also provide a certified driving record (not more than 30 days old).

An out-of-state learner's permit can be converted to a Massachusetts learner's permit if:

• The learner's permit is issued by another state, the District of Columbia, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, or a U.S. Territory. The RMV does not convert learner's permits from any other country
• You are a resident of Massachusetts
• You are at least 16 years old
• You are clear of any outstanding obligations to any state
• You meet the minimum medical standards for a license in Massachusetts
• The out-of-state learner's permit was issued less than 2 years ago
• The out-of-state learner’s permit does not indicate that it is “temporary,” “limited term,” “driver privilege only,” or any other type that has no equivalent Massachusetts learner’s permit

To transfer your out of state learner's permit, you must:

1. Decide what type of permit you want – a REAL ID Massachusetts permit (valid for federal purposes) or Standard Massachusetts permit (not valid for federal purposes). Go to mass.gov/id to decide.
2. Start your application online
3. Bring your required identification (including certified driving record from jurisdiction you are transferring from) and completed application to an RMV Service Center

You must convert your driver's education certificate or complete driver's education in Massachusetts, if you under the age of 18.

Please note that the RMV does not transfer commercial learner's permits (CLPs).

Driving Records

If you present a driving record that is not written or printed in the English language, the RMV may require the document to be accompanied by a translation that is certified by one of the following:

• Language Service Provider  

• A bilingual teacher at an accredited Massachusetts college, university, or private language school  

• A bilingual notary public  

• The local consulate for the document’s country of origin  

  • NOTE: Not all consulates provide translation services. Make sure you confirm with the consulate before choosing this option.

• The American Translators Association (the national association of professional translators and interpreters)  

• Community-based organization  

• U.S. Government agency (state or federal)  

• Massachusetts municipal agency

• Non-profit organization 

Both the translation and certification must be printed on the letterhead of the certifying entity. The RMV will post a template that can be used in the near future. This page will be updated when available.

Certifications must include the following information:  

• Translator’s name (printed)   

• Date  

• Translator’s full address  

• Translator’s telephone number or email address  

• Translator’s signature  

• A statement of the translator's qualifications.  

• A statement affirming the completeness and accuracy of the document.  

• Identification of the translated document and language.