Press Release

Press Release  Enhanced State ID Program Promotes Successful Reentry for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals, Issuing Over 1,250 IDs Since Launch

Expanded Program and Mobile Unit Increases Reentry Support and Removes Barriers to Housing, Employment and Essential Services
For immediate release:
4/17/2025
  • Massachusetts Department of Correction
  • Executive Office of Public Safety and Security
  • Massachusetts Department of Transportation

Media Contact

Scott J. Croteau, Director of Media Relations

Milford — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announces the successful expansion of the Enhanced State ID Program, which has provided more than 1,250 state-issued identification cards to individuals returning to their communities after incarceration. Now in its second year, the program was created to remove barriers to reentry by ensuring individuals have a government-issued photo identification upon release, facilitating their ability to access essential services, secure housing and find employment. 

First announced in March 2023, the program streamlines the process of providing government-issued photo ID to individuals upon release from the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC). In 2024, the program expanded further to include a new mobile unit administered by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), increasing efficiency and accessibility by bringing ID services directly to DOC facilities. The mobile RMV workstation visits DOC facilities statewide, capturing photos and signatures, verifying documents, and issuing IDs. This program comes at no cost to the recipients. 

The program’s impact continues to grow. In 2023, it provided 572 eligible individuals with state IDs, a 55 percent increase from 2022. In 2024, that number rose to 669, with 233 of those IDs issued through the new mobile unit.

“This program makes all of our communities safer by helping individuals returning to their communities after incarceration access housing, jobs and essential services, thus lowering the risk of them re-entering the criminal justice system,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re proud to expand this program and commend our hardworking teams across multiple agencies for their efforts to make it such a success.”

“Our administration is committed to creating pathways to successful reentry and supporting initiatives that improve outcomes by reducing the challenges often faced by those preparing to return to the community after incarceration,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Possessing a state ID is an essential step toward gainful employment, housing and other essential support services.”

In 2023, under the leadership of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), the DOC and the RMV signed a Memorandum of Understanding to streamline the process of obtaining a government-issued photo identification card for individuals within six months of release. This enhanced system allows the DOC to electronically transmit applications, supporting documents, standardized photos and signatures to the RMV through a secure file transfer system. Once processed, the RMV sends the completed ID to the DOC officials, ensuring individuals receive their identification upon release, removing a critical barrier to reentry. 

“A valid state ID is essential for opening a bank account, securing employment and finding stable housing. Without one, returning individuals face difficult barriers to accessing life’s most basic necessities,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “I commend the dedication of the DOC and RMV for their continued efforts to expand this program and grow reentry support for those preparing for life after incarceration.”

As part of the State ID application process, individuals must submit proof of identity documents, most commonly a birth certificate. In cases where an acceptable document is unavailable – often because of incomplete information – the MOU allows the DOC to produce an alternative attestation of identity document for eligible individuals. These measures ensure equitable access to the process for all returning residents. 

“Supporting returning citizens by providing free driver’s licenses or ID cards—when they meet the requirements—is a vital step in removing barriers and affirming their dignity,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “This program reflects our values and our commitment to second chances. I’m grateful to the RMV workforce and the Department of Correction for their partnership in making this possible. We’re proud to play a role in helping returning citizens rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.”

“Ensuring individuals receive a state-issued identification card upon release is one pillar in the DOC’s multifaceted approach to removing barriers and preparing those transitioning back into communities for success,” said DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “I commend our partners at the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles for strengthening and expanding this program with the mobile unit. This identification is vital for individuals to apply for jobs, open bank accounts, and secure stable housing.”

“We are pleased to see that the Enhanced State ID Program is making a difference for individuals who are taking steps to reintegrate into society,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. “Thanks to this partnership with the DOC, we can bring our services to their sites helping individuals who qualify to obtain a Massachusetts identification card prior to release, so they can more easily seek employment and other services.”

“I’m pleased to see the significant progress that we have made with the collaboration of the DOC, Social Security Administration, Vital Records and the RMV. We are now able to provide a packet that includes an ID, Social Security card and birth certificate for many returning citizens,” said Representative Russell Holmes. “Removing the impediment of obtaining these documents enables returning citizens to more quickly become productive and prosocial citizens.”

The mobile RMV workstation visits DOC facilities statewide, capturing photos and signatures, verifying documents, and issuing IDs. (Photos courtesy of the MA Department of Correction)

The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s FY26 House 1 Budget proposes approximately $10 million in funding to support reentry initiatives across DOC and EOPSS, including $7 million for Pre- and Post-Release Services grant programs. 

This proposed investment reflects the administration’s commitment to providing incarcerated individuals access to need-specific programming and industry-specific training that prepares returning individuals for successful community reintegration. 

Massachusetts is recognized as a national leader in recidivism reduction. According to the most recent DOC report, the overall recidivism rate for this cohort decreased to 26 percent, down from 29 percent in the previous year, underscoring the DOC’s continued commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

About the Massachusetts Department of Correction  
The Massachusetts Department of Correction manages the custody, care, and rehabilitation of approximately 6,000 individuals across 13 state facilities. The DOC emphasizes evidence-based programming, trauma-informed care, and educational and vocational training to reduce recidivism and is committed to fostering accountability, personal growth, and successful reentry. Through partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders, the DOC delivers innovative services tailored to the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals while advancing equity, inclusion, and long-term public safety.  

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  • Massachusetts Department of Correction 

    The Department of Correction oversees the state prison system, managing 13 institutions across the state. We provide custody, care, and programming for those under our supervision to prepare them for safe and successful reentry into the community.
  • Executive Office of Public Safety and Security 

    EOPSS is responsible for the policy development and budgetary oversight of its secretariat agencies, independent programs, and several boards which aid in crime prevention, homeland security preparedness, and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the Commonwealth.
  • Massachusetts Department of Transportation 

    Our mission is to deliver excellent customer service to people traveling in the Commonwealth by providing transportation infrastructure which is safe, reliable, robust and resilient. We work to provide a transportation system which can strengthen the state’s economy and improve the quality of life for all.
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