Under the new law, eligible Massachusetts residents can apply to obtain a Standard (Class D or M) driver’s license, regardless of immigration status.
The RMV remains committed to providing quality services to all communities and has been working diligently to develop informational resources, which include:
- An informational website, Mass.Gov/WFMA, which includes helpful information on the WFMA, details identification requirements and outlines steps which must be undertaken by eligible individuals to get a Standard Class D or Class M driver’s license, including successfully passing a vision screening, and scheduling separate appointments for a learner’s permit and road test.
- A special informational phoneline, 857-368-WFMA (9362), to hear messaging in multiple languages.
- Frequently Asked Questions and a public flyer for customers as they prepare their applications.
To prepare for the application process, the RMV is providing tips to eligible residents in advance:
1. Appointments are required: You will need to make two separate appointments to take your learner’s permit exam and take a road test. Walk-ins will not be available. Starting July 1, make your appointment online at Mass.Gov/myRMV. Appointments will fill up fast at popular RMV locations (Haymarket, Watertown, Brockton, for example), so consider expanding your location preferences to find more availability.
2. Prepare your documents: Before your appointment, be sure to gather a proof of identity; proof of date of birth; and documents proving Massachusetts residency. For the expanded list of acceptable documents, see Mass.Gov/WFMA. If any documents are not in English, the RMV will require the document to be accompanied by a certified English translation.
3. Standard fees apply: Costs are $30 for a learner’s permit exam fee, $35 for a road test fee, and $50 for a Class D driver’s license fee. The RMV encourages applicants to pay online in advance at Mass.Gov/myRMV.
4. Study and practice driving: Learn the Massachusetts rules of the road so you can successfully pass your learner’s permit exam. Practice driving with a licensed driver in the car before you take your scheduled road test. Be sure you know how to use hand signals, how to turn the vehicle on, how to use directional signals and the vehicle mirrors while driving. Driver’s Manuals are available at https://www.mass.gov/lists/drivers-manuals.
5. Bring an interpreter if possible: Customer service centers will have translation services available by telephone for your appointment. If you need an interpreter for your road test and have a friend, loved one, or someone else who can accompany to translate, the RMV encourages you to bring them along. Otherwise, you can request an interpreter from the RMV when scheduling a road test.
6. Bring a licensed driver and a vehicle to your road test: All applicants for must bring a licensed driver to their road test to comply with the rules for driving under a Learner’s Permit. You must also provide a vehicle with valid registration and valid inspection for the road test. You will not be able to take your road test if you do not bring a vehicle and a licensed driver to your appointment.
7. Beware of bad actors: The RMV cautions residents to beware of fraudulent websites and scams. The RMV is the only organization authorized to issue a driver’s license and to collect fees. Customers needing credentials should never pay someone for an RMV appointment. There are no special brokers authorized to help you get an appointment or a license. Make sure that you pay fees only at Mass.Gov/myRMV or in person at an RMV location.
For more information go to Mass.gov/WFMA or call (857) 368-WFMA (9326).