Transfer your REAL or standard out-of-state driver's or motorcycle license to Massachusetts

If you are transferring a driver's license in Massachusetts, you have the option of choosing a REAL ID. If you already had a REAL ID, you will still need to provide identification documentation to apply for a Massachusetts REAL ID.

You can start the process online but must go to an RMV Service Center.

Beginning May 7, 2025, individuals 18 and older will need a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card (or another ID accepted by the TSA) to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.

A Massachusetts REAL ID has a star in the top right corner. A standard driver's license does not. 

Visit REAL ID in Massachusetts for more information.

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

If you have a license from Canada, Mexico, or a U.S. territory (including Puerto Rico), you must present a driving record not more than 30 days old. Refer to the More Info section if your Driving Record is not printed in English.

Please note that the RMV participates in the State-to-State (S2S) Verification Service which electronically checks with all other participating states to determine if you currently hold a driver's license or identification card in another state and will notify the state you are transferring from to invalidate that credential. 

If you do not have your out-of-state license to turn-in to the RMV, you will need to provide:

• Acceptable photo ID from the list of acceptable documents
• Certified copy of Driving Record, not more than 30 days old

If your license has been expired more than 1 year, a full test (written and road) and an eye test will be required. If your license is active or is expired for less than 1 year, a written and road test is not required.

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.