Massachusetts identification (ID) requirements

Learn more about what you need to do to get RMV-issued ID cards in Massachusetts.

To get a license or ID card from the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), you need to provide the registry with certain identification documents, which vary depending on which credential you want. All documents on this page are available in multiple languages.

If you are renewing a standard driver's license (Class D, Class M, or Class D/M) or Mass ID, you have the option of choosing REAL ID, which you will need beginning May 7, 2025 to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities if you don't have another ID accepted by the TSA.

Important: REAL ID documents must be originals and they can not be laminated. Your current name must match the one on your documents. If it does not, you must present documents proving you changed your name, like a marriage certificate or other court document.

REAL ID driver's license or REAL Mass ID

View transcript 

Skip this video.

You skipped the video, REAL ID .

A REAL ID is an enhanced version of a driver's license or Mass ID that meets the Federal Security Standard for IDs.

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 or Mass ID is not accepted for federal purposes.

To get a REAL ID you must make an appointment for an in-person visit at an RMV Service Center or AAA branch (if you're a member). You also must present identity documents.

• 1 proving you're in the U.S. legally
• 1 proving your full 9-digit social security number
• 2 proving you live in Massachusetts

Review the documents checklist below to see what documents you need to bring to your appointment.

Visit REAL ID in Massachusetts for more information.

Standard passenger (Class D) or motorcycle (Class M) learner's permit

To get a standard (Class D) or motorcycle (Class M) driver's license in Massachusetts, you must make an appointment at an RMV Service Center to present documents proving your identity and state residency.

Review the documents checklist below to see what documents you need to bring to your appointment.

Visit Passenger (Class D) Driver's Licenses for more information.

Visit Motorcycle (Class M) Driver's Licenses for more information.

Standard passenger (Class D) or motorcycle (Class M) driver's license

To get a standard (Class D) or motorcycle (Class M) driver's license in Massachusetts, you must make an appointment at an RMV Service Center to present documents proving your identity and state residency.

Review the documents checklist below to see what documents you need to bring to your appointment.

Visit Passenger (Class D) Driver's Licenses for more information.

Visit Motorcycle (Class M) Driver's Licenses for more information.

Standard Mass ID

To get a standard Massachusetts ID (Mass ID), you must make an appointment at an RMV Service Center to present documents proving your identity and state residency.

Review the documents checklist below to see what documents you need to bring to your appointment.

Visit Apply for a Massachusetts Identification Card (Mass ID) for more information.

Commercial driver's license (CDL)

To get a commercial driver's license (CDL) in Massachusetts, you must make an appointment at an RMV Service Center to present documents proving your identity and state residency.

Review the documents checklist below to see what documents you need to bring to your appointment.

Visit Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) for more information.

Liquor ID

To apply for a Liquor ID

• You must be at least 21 years of age
• You may not hold a valid Massachusetts driver's license

All liquor ID applicants must present the following documents:

• 1 document proving your social security number (SSN) or a SSN denial notice with non-U.S. passport, visa, and I-94
• 1 document proving your date of birth

The RMV does not issue REAL ID Liquor IDs. All Liquor IDs state 'Not for Federal Identification' and can not be used to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.

Review the documents checklist below to see what documents you need to bring to your appointment.

Visit Apply for a Liquor ID card for more information.