Massachusetts Driver's Manual PDF

A Message to Massachusetts Motorists from the Registry of Motor Vehicles Dear Motorist, The MassDOT Registry of Motor Vehicles is pleased to provide you with this updated Driver’s Manual. The manual is a helpful guide and a reminder that a driver’s license is a privilege, and with that comes the responsibilities of understanding and following the laws, and keeping you and other drivers safe on the road. Please read the rules of the road in order to prepare for your learner's permit exam and road test and a lifetime of safe driving, bicycling, and walking. Some of the important points in the manual include: Hands-Free Electronics While Driving - Massachusetts law prohibits operators of motor vehicles from using any electronic device, including mobile telephones, unless the device is used in hands-free mode. Drivers are not permitted to hold or support any electronic device. Teen drivers are not allowed to use any electronic devices, even in hands-free mode. Fines and other penalties will be imposed for violators of the “hands-free law.” See page 32 for more information. Out-of-State Violations - Out-of-state motor vehicle violations impact your record just as if they occurred in Massachusetts. Do not ignore them. If you fail to pay or appear in another jurisdiction for a violation, the RMV will take action against you when learning of these events. See page 48 for more information. REAL ID - Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID, or other acceptable ID such as a valid passport, to fly within the United States. See page five for more information. It’s important that you stay up to date on changes aimed at increasing safety for all. One way to stay connected is to look for updates to this manual online. We are proud to offer the Driver’s Manual as a fully accessible PDF on our website, Mass.Gov/RMV. In addition to English, the manual is currently available online in Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Haitian Creole, and Vietnamese. It will be available in additional languages in the future. The RMV looks forward to serving you because, together, we can keep our roads safe. For the latest RMV news, follow the RMV on Twitter @MassRMV. Revised July 2023 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Sharing the Road A User’s Manual for Public Ways Most public ways, including urban streets, country lanes, main roads, secondary roads, and suburban or rural roads, are meant to be shared by all of us. “Us” includes pedestrians, persons riding on bicycles or motorcycles, persons riding in passenger vehicles or buses, and persons operating commercial motor vehicles or trailers, or combinations of those vehicles. Some ways, such as Interstate highways and expressways, are designed exclusively for use by motor vehicles and trailers traveling at high speeds. Other public ways are specifically designed for slower speeds or for travel by lighter vehicles and may restrict or prohibit certain vehicles. Public ways come in various lengths and widths with various features: one-way, two-way, multiple lanes, High Occupancy Vehicle lanes (HOV), center dividers, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and hard or soft shoulders. However the public way is laid out, it is meant to be used by people and the various types of vehicles that may propel them along if they are not on foot. Although the bulk of this manual provides information about the use of public ways for motor vehicles and trailers, the goal of the RMV in producing it is to make all users of public ways aware that our public streets and roads are meant to be shared except where the law provides for limited uses. Bicycling and walking may be used in conjunction with transit, so always pay attention. Table of Contents Chapter 1 Obtaining Your License........................................... 1 Who Needs a Massachusetts License?...................................... 2 Who is Eligible for a Massachusetts License?................................. 3 License Descriptions and Classifications..................................... 5 REAL ID and Standard Massachusetts Cards (License/ID)................... 5 Work and Family Mobility Act (WFMA)................................... 6 License Classes.................................................... 6 License Length..................................................... 7 Restrictions........................................................ 7 Junior Operator License Law............................................... 8 Requirements to Obtain a JOL......................................... 8 JOL License Restrictions.............................................. 9 Identification Requirements............................................... 10 Social Security Numbers and License Numbers........................... 11 Appeals.......................................................... 12 Applying for a License................................................... 12 Getting a Learner’s Permit............................................ 12 Driving With Your Permit............................................. 15 Taking the Road Test................................................ 16 Receiving Your New License.......................................... 22 Converting Your License From Another Jurisdiction............................ 22 Junior Operator License Conversion.................................... 22 Permit Conversion.................................................. 23 Conversions from a U.S. Territory, Canada, or Mexico...................... 23 Voter Registration...................................................... 23 Veteran's Indicator...................................................... 24 Organ and Tissue Donor Program.......................................... 24 License/ID Fees........................................................ 26 Chapter 2 Safety First..................................................... 27 Passenger Vehicle Safety................................................ 28 Safety/Seat Belt Law................................................ 28 How Safety/Seat Belts Work.......................................... 30 Myths About Safety/Seat Belts........................................ 30 Air-Bag Safety..................................................... 31 Inside the Vehicle.................................................. 31 Distracted Driving Law/ Hands-Free Mobile (Cell) Phone Use................ 32 Driving Defensively..................................................... 33 Your Health and Physical Condition.................................... 34 Checking Your Vehicle’s Condition..................................... 34 Safe Distances Around Your Car....................................... 35 Braking and Stopping............................................... 36 Using Your Horn, Headlights, and Emergency Signals...................... 37 Night Driving...................................................... 37 Drowsy Driving.................................................... 38 Driving in Rain or Fog............................................... 38 Winter Driving..................................................... 39 Vulnerable Road Users Law.......................................... 40 Pedestrians....................................................... 40 Bicycles and Mopeds............................................... 41 Motorcycles....................................................... 42 Motorcycle Safety...................................................... 43 Motorized Bicycle (Moped) Safety......................................... 43 Motorized Scooter Safety................................................ 43 Limited Use Vehicle Safety............................................... 44 Low Speed Vehicle Safety............................................... 44 Bicycle Safety Law Changes.............................................. 44 Chapter 3 Keeping Your License............................................ 45 Motor Vehicle Violations and Penalties...................................... 46 Civil Motor Vehicle Infractions......................................... 46 Criminal Violations.................................................. 47 Out-of-State Violations.............................................. 48 At-Fault Crashes................................................... 48 Surchargeable Events............................................... 48 Driver Retraining Course............................................. 49 Driving Records.................................................... 50 License Suspension or Revocation......................................... 50 Mandatory License Suspensions Chart.................................. 51 Reasons for License Suspension...................................... 51 Mandatory Permit Suspensions (Junior Operators 16 1/2 to 18 Years) Chart.... 52 Mandatory License Suspensions (18 Years and Older) Chart................ 53 Criminal Offenses and Suspensions Chart............................... 54 When Your License Is Suspended or Revoked........................... 55 Penalties For Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs Chart........ 56 Alcohol, Drugs, and Driving............................................... 56 License Suspension Periods for Failed Chemical Tests Chart................ 57 Alcohol........................................................... 57 License Suspension Periods for Refusing a Chemical Test Chart............. 59 Ignition Interlock Devices............................................ 60 Buying, Possessing, or Transporting Alcohol............................. 60 False or Altered Licenses/Identification Cards............................ 60 Illegal Drugs, Medicine, and Other Controlled Substances.................. 61 Reasons for License Nonrenewal.......................................... 62 Chapter 4 Rules of the Road............................................... 63 Dangers of Speeding.................................................... 64 Speed Limits.......................................................... 64 Traffic Signals......................................................... 66 Motor Vehicle Signals............................................... 66 Pedestrian Signals................................................. 70 Traffic Signs........................................................... 71 Stop and Yield Signs................................................ 71 Regulatory Signs................................................... 71 Warning Signs..................................................... 71 Guide Signs...................................................... 71 Railroad Crossings................................................. 72 Roadway Construction/Maintenance (Work Zones)............................ 72 Pavement Markings..................................................... 74 White Lane Lines.................................................. 74 Yellow Lane Lines.................................................. 75 Words and Symbols................................................ 75 Stop Lines, Yield Lines, and Crosswalks................................ 76 Channelizing Islands................................................ 77 Crossing Guards................................................... 77 Lanes, Intersections, and Turns........................................... 77 Signaling......................................................... 77 Using Lanes...................................................... 78 Highway Driving................................................... 78 Intersections...................................................... 80 Turns............................................................ 80 Right-of-Way Rules................................................. 83 Courtesy Crashes.................................................. 85 Rules for Passing.................................................. 85 Road Respect/Sharing the Road.......................................... 87 Parking.............................................................. 91 Parking Regulations................................................ 92 Miscellaneous Rules of the Road.......................................... 93 Rules for Pedestrians................................................... 93 Laws for Bicyclists and Motorists in the Presence of Bicyclists................... 94 The Danger of Open Doors to Bicyclists................................ 97 Bicycle Boxes..................................................... 98 Separated Bicycle Lanes............................................ 98 Common Bicycle Crash Scenarios..................................... 99 Chapter 5 Special Driving Situations....................................... 101 Moving Emergency Vehicle.............................................. 102 Stationary Emergency and Maintenance Vehicles............................ 102 If You are Stopped by a Police Officer..................................... 103 Driving Emergencies................................................... 105 Traffic Crashes....................................................... 108 If You Are Involved in a Crash....................................... 108 Hit and Run Crashes (Leaving the Scene Without Identifying Yourself)....... 109 If You Witness a Crash............................................. 110 Reporting a Crash................................................. 111 Drive Smart and Save - "Green Driving" Tips................................ 111 This document is published by the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. While it contains a great deal of information about RMV policies and state laws, it is important to note that this is not a legal document. Every effort is made to present the most accurate, error free, and up-to-date information. However, RMV policies and fees change from time to time, as do laws governing motor vehicles. The RMV will make every effort to post information about changes to the fees, policies, procedures, or laws referenced in this Driver's Manual that may affect your ability to obtain a Learner's Permit, Driver's License, or Identification Card. Relevant changes will be posted on the RMV's website at Mass.Gov/RMV. If you do not have access to a computer, you may call the RMV's Contact Center at 857-368-8000 (from the 339/617/781/857 MA area codes or from outside of MA) or 800-858-3926 (from all other MA area codes). Or, you can call 877-RMV-TTDD if you are deaf and hard of hearing. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has changed a great deal since its inception in 1903. There are now nearly five million licensed drivers in our state. And today, more than ever, the Agency is committed to increasing efficiency and improving customer satisfaction through technology and innovative initiatives. Enhanced computer technology continues to strongly impact customer service. Through the RMV’s website (Mass.Gov/RMV) you can start certain license/ID card transactions and conduct such transactions as scheduling a road test, paying your road test/license fees, renewing a registration, renewing a license or Massachusetts ID Card, ordering a special plate, paying a traffic citation, ordering a duplicate license/ID, ordering a duplicate title, changing your address, verifying the issuance of a driver’s education certificate, checking the status of a registration or title, changing your organ donor status, or canceling plates. You can also download forms, view this Driver’s Manual, and learn the latest “rules of the road." Over the Internet, the RMV also invites you to ask questions and offer suggestions for improving RMV services. The RMV will continue to explore other ways to improve its relationship with you, such as through our partnership with AAA, which allows AAA members to process certain RMV transactions at AAA branches. How to Use This Manual For new drivers, this manual is a useful tool for understanding the licensing process and for studying the rules of the road. For Introduction experienced drivers, this manual offers more than the procedure for obtaining a learner’s permit. It provides valuable information on RMV policies, changes to driving laws, and safe driving tips. Keep this manual in your vehicle and refer to it whenever you have a question. What's New? The following has been added to this manual since the last printing: Work and Family Mobility Act - Beginning July 1, 2023, the Massachusetts RMV will not require customers to provide proof of lawful presence to obtain a Standard Driver’s License (Class D or M), due to the Work and Family Mobility Act (WFMA). See page six for a full explanation of the Work and Family Mobility Act. Hands-Free Law - Handheld device use is only allowed if the vehicle is stationary and is not located in a public travel lane. It is not allowed at red lights or stop signs. Do NOT stop on the side of a busy road or highway to use a mobile electronic device. See page 32 for a full explanation of the Hands-Free Law. Drowsy Driving - Driving while tired or drowsy can be deadly. The ONLY true way to protect yourself from drowsy driving is to get enough sleep and to not drive when you feel tired. When possible, avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m. If you must drive at that time, be alert for signs of drowsiness, such as crossing lines or hitting rumble strips. See page 38 for more information. Vulnerable Road User Law - When you pass a "vulnerable road user" (such as a pedestrian or bicyclist), you must leave a safe passing distance of at least 4 feet between your vehicle and the road user. If it is safe, you may use all or part of the lane next to you and you may cross the center line if necessary. See page 40 for more information, including the legal definition of a "vulnerable road user" and a new street sign. Dangers of Speeding - A new section was added about the dangers of speeding and how it increases the risks of crashes and serious injuries and fatalities for everybody on the road. A new graphic is included to show how an increase in speed affects pedestrians in a crash and how it reduces a driver's "cone of vision". See page 64 for more information. Courtesy Crashes - Sometimes, drivers trying to be nice can cause confusion resulting in "courtesy crashes". Waving people in through stopped traffic, or driving through traffic when someone waves you in, creates a dangerous situation and can easily result in a crash. Whether you make the turn should depend on traffic and visibility. See page 85 for more information. Driver Removal Law - After a crash involving property damage only, the Driver Removal Law requires that vehicles be moved out of travel lanes to a safe location so they do not cause additional accidents. See page 108 for more information on traffic crashes. Obtaining Your License If you are a Massachusetts resident (or even a non-resident), you must have a valid driver's license to operate a motor vehicle on any public road, highway, or other way permitting access to the public. Through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), the Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues five license classes with various privileges and restrictions to residents of Massachusetts. Class A, B, and C CHAPTER 1 licenses, which are known as commercial driver's licenses (CDLs), allow you to operate large vehicles, like trucks and buses. The Class D license, which is most common, is for passenger vehicles, vans, and small trucks. The Class M license allows you to operate motorcycles. 1 Who Needs a Massachusetts License? All Massachusetts residents need to obtain a valid Massachusetts license in order to operate a motor vehicle in Massachusetts. Out-of-State/Out-of-Country Residents Out-of-State U.S. Residents: A U.S. resident, who is at least 16 years of age and lives outside of Massachusetts, may drive in Massachusetts using a valid out-of-state driver's license issued by their state/territory of residence. This rule applies to licensed visitors and travelers from other U.S. states and territories and to residents of nearby states who commute to work in Massachusetts. Out-of-Country Residents: Massachusetts Law (Chapter 90, Section 10) allows certain validly licensed drivers of other countries to operate validly registered motor vehicles in Massachusetts. The country that issued the license must enforce standards for motor vehicle operation equivalent to Massachusetts (as determined by the RMV). If you are a visitor from another country, you may drive private passenger vehicles in Massachusetts if you are over 16 and have a valid (not suspended or revoked) driver's license issued by your home country to operate the same type of vehicle. If the foreign license is not printed in English or does not contain English translations of the important information fields on the license, a translation into English will be needed. Whether you have a U.S. or foreign driver’s license, you must have your valid out-of-state or out- of-country driver's license in your possession when driving in Massachusetts. If an English translation of a foreign license is required, you should also have that available with the foreign license. A violation of Section 10 is a criminal violation and a first offense is subject to a fine of $500. Moving to Massachusetts: If you become a resident of Massachusetts, you must obtain a Massachusetts driver's license to retain your driving privileges. There is no grace period. Licensing Rules for Military Personnel If you are in active military service and want to drive in Massachusetts, you must have a valid driver's license from your home state. If you are a permanent resident of the Commonwealth, you must have a valid Massachusetts license. Following are exceptions: If you are returning from active duty outside the United States and have a driver's license issued by a branch of the Armed Forces based in another country, you may drive with that license in Massachusetts for up to 45 days. If you have a Massachusetts driver's license that expired during your active service, you may use that license to operate a motor vehicle for up to 60 days after your honorable discharge from military service. If you choose to exercise this option, you must carry your expired license and proof of your discharge with you when you drive. 2 RMV Contact Center: 857-368-8000 (from the 339/617/781/857 MA area codes or from outside of MA) 800-858-3926 (from all other MA area codes) or email [email protected] The deaf and hard of hearing can call toll free at 877-RMV-TTDD (1-877-768-8833). Contact Center Hours: Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Internet Address: Mass.Gov/RMV Who is Eligible for a Massachusetts License? Anyone who is a Massachusetts resident, is at least 16 years old, and has not had a driver's license or the right to operate revoked may apply to begin the process of obtaining a Class D or Class M License with a reservation at any RMV Service Center. Massachusetts Driver's License Limited to Massachusetts Residents By law, a Massachusetts driver’s license or ID card (except for a Liquor ID card) can only be issued to a resident of Massachusetts. Licenses cannot be issued for the convenience of business persons or tourists from other states or countries who may be here temporarily or to non-residents who own property or temporarily live in Massachusetts but maintain their legal residence outside the state. To obtain a license, you must meet all the requirements for a driver's license under the law, including the requirement that you be a legal resident of Massachusetts. Massachusetts law requires those convicted of sex offenses to register with their local police departments. For more information, call 1-800-93-MEGAN. Age Requirement No person under the age of 16 may drive in Massachusetts. This is true even if you have a driver's license (or learner's permit) issued in a state or U.S. territory or another country that allows operation of a motor vehicle by a person less than 16 years of age. To apply for a Class D (passenger vehicle) or a Class M (motorcycle) learner's permit, you must be at least 16. You can obtain a learner's permit at age 16, but you may not receive a Class D or a Class M driver's license until you are at least 16 1/2 and have had your permit in good standing for six consecutive months and have completed a driver education training program approved by the RMV. Note: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Commercial Driver's License (Class A, B, or C). Parent/ Guardian Consent Customers applying for permits, licenses, or identification cards who are under age 18 (minors) must obtain written consent from a parent, a legal guardian, a social worker, or a boarding school headmaster. For a learner's permit, or identification card, a person gives written consent by signing the back of the permit / license / ID application. If the person signing the back of the application is not a parent, documentation of the person's guardian status must be shown at the time of the permit / ID application and, for a license, at the time of the road test. Forging a signature may result in license suspension or revocation. 3 Facial Image Policy All applicants for a learner's permit, driver's license, identification card, liquor identification card, or disability placard must have their photo-image captured by the RMV. This is to ensure that the image contained on the issued document and in the RMV's database is the actual image of the person who provided the identification information to the RMV when applying for the document. It is also to aid law enforcement officers in the proper identification of the person whose image is contained on the document. The captured image must be a straightforward looking view of the applicant. All of the applicant's facial features must be visible (e.g. eyes, nose, mouth, cheeks, etc.). The appearance must provide a clear view of the applicant's face as a whole. A solid or transparent facial cover (scarf, veil, eyeglasses/sunglasses, goggles, surgical or dust mask, etc.) is not acceptable. Eyeglasses, including reading or prescription glasses, are not allowed, even if the applicant normally wears them. A hat or other head cover is not acceptable, but if worn for medical or religious reasons, it may be allowed if it does not hide any facial features. Natural facial hair and hairpieces may be acceptable unless the overall effect disguises the person's true facial appearance or facial features are obscured. Permanent facial tattoos are acceptable but temporary tattoos are not. Bluetooth headsets are not acceptable. Vision Screening Requirements Testing your vision is a necessary part of ensuring that you are capable of operating a motor vehicle safely. An RMV clerk will screen your vision when you apply for a learner's permit or driver's license. You will be screened for visual acuity, color vision, and peripheral vision. If you normally wear contact lenses or corrective lenses to see at a distance, then you must wear them during the vision screening examination. To be eligible for a Class D or M license, your vision must be at least 20/40 visual acuity in your better eye (corrected) and at least 120 degrees of horizontal peripheral vision (both eyes together) for a full license. If your corrected vision is between 20/50 and 20/70 in the better eye, you may be eligible for a daylight only license. If you fail the vision screening examination, decline to take the examination, or are unable to take the vision screening examination, you may submit an original RMV Vision Screening Certificate (VSC) that your ophthalmologist or optometrist has completed. The RMV may accept this Vision Screening Certificate in lieu of the vision screening examination to demonstrate compliance with the minimum vision standards to obtain a driver's license. You can download the Vision Screening Certificate from the RMV’s website (Mass.Gov/RMV) or pick up a copy at many eye-care providers. For information on other vision and physical qualifications necessary to hold a Massachusetts driver's license, or for more information regarding the voluntary reporting procedure for medical conditions, please call Medical Affairs at 857-368-8020. You can also visit the Medical Standards webpage (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/medical- standards-for-passenger-class-d-and-motorcycle-class-m-drivers-licenses). 4 Driving Record Verification When you apply for a permit or license, or renew a license, you will be required to provide a list of the states you have been licensed in for the past ten years, as well as all out-of-state license numbers you have had. The RMV's licensing computer system checks your name, birth date, Social Security Number, and any out-of-state driver's license numbers with the Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS), which stores information about license suspensions and revocations for drivers in all 50 states. If your record matches PDPS, you will not be allowed to continue the application process until all out-of-state suspensions or convictions are resolved. You cannot hold a driver's license in multiple states. Massachusetts is part of the State-to- State program, which checks valid driver licenses and state issued ID cards issued by other participating states. State-to-State will cancel any driver’s license or state issued ID card issued by the other participating state when a Massachusetts license or ID Card (excluding a Liquor ID) is issued. License Descriptions and Classifications REAL ID and Standard Massachusetts Cards (License/ID) You need to choose either a REAL ID Massachusetts Driver’s License or ID Card or a Standard Massachusetts Driver’s License or ID Card. The cost is the same for both card types (see License/ID Fees section). May 7, 2025: What You Need to Travel is Changing Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID, or other acceptable ID such as a valid passport, to fly within the United States or enter certain federal buildings. A REAL ID Card issued by Massachusetts is compliant with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. This type of license or ID Card can be used to access certain federal facilities and to board flights within the United States. If you have a passport or other acceptable ID, you may never need a REAL ID. More information about REAL ID can be found at Mass.Gov/ID. A Standard Massachusetts Card may be a driver’s license or ID Card. A Standard Massachusetts Driver's License offers the same driving privileges as a REAL ID Massachusetts Driver's License. However, after May 7, 2025, it will NOT be an acceptable form of identification for the federal purposes mentioned above. If you have a Standard Massachusetts Card, you will need to show a passport or alternative form of federally acceptable identification to board a domestic flight or access certain federal facilities after May 7, 2025. The Transportation Security Administration publishes a list of alternative forms of identification at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/ identification. All driver licensing requirements (age, operator fitness, and written and road testing) are the same for both card types. The documentation and application requirements are different for the two card types. They also look different, with different markings and words printed on the face of the cards. Visit Mass.Gov/ID for more information. You may hold only one driver’s license or ID Card at a time. 5 Work and Family Mobility Act (WFMA) Beginning July 1, 2023, Massachusetts no longer requires applicants to provide proof of lawful presence to obtain a Standard Class D or M Driver’s License. This is due to the Massachusetts Work and Family Mobility Act (Chapter 81 of the Acts of 2022). Eligible customers must meet the Standard Driver's License identification requirements and pass the written and road test requirements. Customers will receive a five-year, Standard Driver's License and the card will look the same as any other Standard Card. See Mass.Gov/WFMA for more information on the WFMA. The WFMA does not affect any class of REAL ID Driver’s Licenses or ID Cards, Standard Massachusetts ID Cards, Commercial Driver's Licenses, or Liquor IDs. Lawful presence is still required for all of these. License Classes The table below summarizes Massachusetts license types. Your driver's license is considered a primary form of identification, showing proof of identity, residence, age, and signature. In addition to listing your personal information, a license or an ID issued to you by the RMV features an image of your photo and signature, which is stored on the RMV's central computer. For information on Commercial vehicle (Class A, B, or C) restrictions or endorsements, see the CDL Manual on Mass.Gov/RMV. For information on Motorcycle (Class M) licenses, see the Motorycle Manual on Mass.Gov/RMV. Massachusetts Driver’s Licenses License Vehicles Permitted Class A Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. (Holders of a Class A license may, with any appropriate endorsements, operate all vehicles within Class B, C, and D.) B Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. (Holders of a Class B license may, with appropriate endorsements, operate all vehicles within Class C and D.) C Any single vehicle or combination of vehicles that does not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or is required to be placarded for hazardous materials under 49 CFR 172.500 or any other federal regulation. (Holders of a Class C license may operate all vehicles within Class D.) D Any single vehicle or combination of vehicles that does not meet the definition of Class A, Class B, Class C, or Class M. (Typically passenger vehicles such as cars, SUVs, or family vans). M Any motor vehicle defined as a motorcycle in M.G.L. c. 90, § 1. 6 License Length A Massachusetts driver's license is valid for a maximum of five years and typically expires on your birthday. A REAL ID License or ID card can be issued for a period of less than five years if an applicant’s authorized lawful presence (as established by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security) is for a shorter period. The minimum acceptable period of lawful presence is 12 months. However, an applicant who can prove that they meet the minimum 12 month period can be issued a REAL ID License or ID card even if they will only be present for a shorter period. The license fee will be prorated if it is less than five years and the license will not expire on your birthday. A Standard License will always be valid for five years. You can renew your license or ID up to one year before its expiration date. Vertical licenses and identification cards with the words "Under 21" printed on them are issued to anyone who obtains or renews a license or identification card while under the age of 21. If you renew your license or ID card before your 21st birthday, you will receive a vertical license or ID card. This license or ID card will remain valid to expiration, even after you turn 21. A horizontal license may be obtained after your 21st birthday. Restrictions Restrictions are limitations placed on your driving privileges. Your driver's license may be issued with various restrictions, which are indicated by code letters on the front and back of your license. List of Restrictions The RMV may apply any of the following restrictions to a license: 2 Medical Log / Glucose Required A Use with Certified Driving Instructor Only B Corrective lenses C Mechanical Aid D Prosthetic Aid / Personal Medical Aid E CMV Automatic Transmission G Daylight Only H Limited to Employment I JOL Limited / Other J Other K CDL - Intrastate Only L CDL - Vehicles without Airbrakes M CDL - Except Class A Bus N CDL - Except Class A & B Bus O CDL - Except Tractor/Trailer P No Passengers in CMV Bus Q Class D Automatic Transmission 7 R Bioptic Telescoping Lens S Proof of Blood Sugar Level T Ignition Interlock U 3 Wheeled Motorcycle V Medical Variance W Intrastate Medical Waiver X CDL - No Cargo in CMV Tanker Y Restrict to 14 Passenger Capacity Z CDL - Air Over Hydraulic Medical Restrictions Medical Affairs, which reviews license applications listing physical or mental conditions that may affect a driver's abilities, may issue driving restrictions related to your current medical condition. For example, if you pass the driver's license vision test by wearing glasses or contact lenses, your driver's license will be issued with a "Corrective Lenses" restriction (code letter B) and you must wear your corrective lenses when you drive. If you need a mechanical aid or prosthetic device (adaptive equipment) to operate a motor vehicle, Medical Affairs will issue your license with restriction(s). It considers license applications on a case-by-case basis, and you may be required to provide a physician's letter for medical clearances or special driving-related equipment. If you develop a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, you must report the condition to the RMV. Please call Medical Affairs at 857-368-8020. Junior Operator Restrictions The Junior Operator restriction (code letter I) is added to the licenses of all operators under age 18. For a complete description of the Junior Operator Law and driving restrictions for operators under 18, see the Junior Operator License Law section below. The Junior Operator License Law Any motor vehicle operator or motorcyclist between the ages of 16 1/2 and 18 is considered a Junior Operator. The Junior Operator Law has several requirements and restrictions that significantly affect the operation of a motor vehicle by a person who has a Junior Operator’s License (JOL). The basic purpose of the law is to provide new drivers supervised opportunities in which to develop good driving skills, while keeping those drivers free of the possible distractions caused by friends under age 18 who are present while the drivers are behind the wheel. Requirements to Obtain a JOL An applicant for a driver's license between ages 16 1/2 and 18 must comply with several requirements to obtain a JOL: Have a valid learner's permit for at least six consecutive months before taking the road test. (Any suspension will invalidate the permit and the six months will start to run anew when the suspension is lifted.) 8 Maintain a clean driving record for at least six consecutive months before taking the road test. Successfully complete an RMV-approved driver education and training program, which includes 30 hours of classroom instruction; 12 hours of in-car, behind-the-wheel training; and six hours of in-car experience observing other student drivers. Complete at least an additional 40 hours of supervised, behind-the-wheel driving as shown by a certified statement provided by a parent or guardian. The RMV will accept 30 hours of driving supervised by a parent or guardian if the applicant completed a driver skills development program. A parent or guardian must participate in two hours of instruction on the driver’s education curriculum (unless they have participated within the past five years). Pass a final exam to have a driver’s education certificate electronically filed with RMV. JOL License Restrictions The following restrictions apply to all Junior Operators: You may not operate a motor vehicle within the first six months after receiving your JOL while any person under age 18 is in the vehicle (other than you or an immediate family member), unless you are accompanied by a person who is at least 21 years old, has at least one year of driving experience, holds a valid driver's license from Massachusetts or another state, and is occupying a seat beside you. General Rule: The passenger restriction that applies to you as a JOL holder under age 18 is lifted once you complete the six-month period (or the portion that applies to you) or you reach age 18, whichever occurs first. The six-month passenger restriction period will stop running, temporarily, during any suspension. When your JOL is reinstated, you will still have to complete the remainder of the six-month restriction period that existed at the beginning of the suspension period, unless you have already turned 18. See Chapter Three for a list of the penalties and fees you will face for violating any of these restrictions. As the holder of a JOL, you may not operate a motor vehicle between 12:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless you are accompanied by one of your parents or your legal guardian. If you are found operating a motor vehicle in violation of this restriction, you may be charged with operating a motor vehicle without being licensed. This is a criminal violation. Note: The law states that between 12:30 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. and between 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., the provisions of the law shall be enforced by law enforcement agencies only when a Junior Operator of a motor vehicle has been lawfully stopped for a violation of the motor vehicle laws or some other offense. This is called "secondary enforcement." However, it is still illegal for you to operate during those times without a parent present in the car. If you violate the passenger restriction or the night restriction, you will be subject to a license suspension of 60 days for a first offense, 180 days for a second offense, and one year for subsequent offenses. For a second or subsequent offense, you will also be required to complete a Driver Attitudinal Retraining course. The law requires the RMV to impose this suspension in addition to any other penalty, fine, suspension, revocation, or requirement that may be imposed in connection with a violation 9 committed at the time you were violating the passenger or night restriction. You may not operate a motor vehicle that requires a commercial driver's license (CDL). You will be suspended for one year if you are under 18 when you have committed certain driving offenses and alcohol or drugs were involved (180 days if age 18 to 21), in addition to any penalty assessed by a court or other law. (For details, see the License Suspension or Revocation section of Chapter Three.) You will be ineligible for a full license until you have completed the period of suspension imposed while operating with a JOL and you reach age 18. You will face additional suspension periods of one year for a first drag racing offense and three years for a subsequent offense. For a first speeding offense, you will be suspended for 90 days; for a subsequent offense, you will be suspended for one year. Drivers under 18 may not use any mobile electronic device for any reason while operating a motor vehicle. The only exception is for reporting an emergency. See the Distracted Driving Law/ Hands-Free Cell Phone Use section of Chapter Two for more information. Identification Requirements The federal REAL ID Act established minimum standards that states must follow when issuing and producing driver's licenses and ID cards. On May 7, 2025, the federal government will require that individuals present a license or ID marked as a REAL ID, or other federally acceptable form of identification, to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. Visit Mass.Gov/ID for up-to- date REAL ID information in Massachusetts. To apply for a permit, license, or ID card, you must provide identification documents. These required documents will be different for REAL ID Cards and Standard Massachusetts Cards. All Driver’s License and Massachusetts Identification Card applicants must present the following: REAL ID Driver’s License/ID Card Standard Driver’s License/ID Card (valid for federal purposes) (not valid for federal purposes) 1 document that proves your lawful Depending on the documents presence in the U.S. presented, 1 or 2 documents that prove your identity / date of birth 2 documents that prove your Massachusetts residency 1 document that proves your Massachusetts residency 1 document that proves your Social Security Number OR a Social Security Social Security Number requirement Number Denial Notice with non-U.S. (ONE of the following): Passport, Visa, and I-94 A Social Security Number that validates electronically A Social Security Number Denial Notice with non-U.S. Passport, Visa, and I-94 A No Social Security Number Affidavit - only allowed for certain customers presenting specific document types and only for Standard Driver's Licenses (NOT for Massachusetts ID Cards) 10 The identification documents must be from the Acceptable Identification Document list (see Mass.Gov/ID) and must be satisfactory to the RMV. You may need to provide the required identification for each different type of document you apply for, even if you already have a Massachusetts permit, license, or ID. All documents must be originals unless otherwise indicated. Photocopies will not be accepted. Laminated documents are not acceptable. Save time by starting your application online at Mass.Gov/RMV. Completing all the information in the application and indicating which documents you will bring will help ensure your transaction is successful. Note 1: Foreign diplomats and other foreign government officials, their family members, and personal assistants/employees who have been issued a U.S. Department of State driver’s license are not eligible to obtain a Massachusetts driver's license. Note 2: If your visa includes additional forms, such as F1 and F2 or M1 and M2, both of which require an I-20, that form must be submitted as well. Identification requirements are subject to change at any time. Visit Mass.Gov/ID for the most current information. The Registry will initiate electronic checks for most identification documents with national and state databases. This process provides validity responses back to the RMV within seconds for the vast majority. However, some checks will require additional time for research or may be subject to manual review. This does not mean that your transaction has been denied. It simply means the verifying information is not readily available and additional time is required. These cases are generally resolved within three to five business days, but in rare occasions may be up to twenty days. Your Customer Service Representative will provide you with additional instructions. Social Security Numbers and License Numbers You must meet the Social Security Number (SSN) requirement to apply for any permit, license, or ID, including a replacement or a renewal. When you submit an application, the Registry will attempt to validate the SSN you provide against computer records at the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you do not have an SSN, you may request an application for one by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting SSA.Gov/ssnumber. If you have applied for an SSN with the SSA and been denied, you must present the written Denial Notice (not more than 60 days old) the SSA provided you and all of the following: Proof of your current visa status An I-94 Record of Arrival & Departure (either a paper version from US Customs and Border Protection or a printout of an electronic version downloaded from their website: CBP.Gov/i94) Your current non-U.S. Passport If you do not have an SSN and cannot apply for one, you can present a No Social Security Number Affidavit and apply for a Standard Driver's License. This affidavit is only allowed for certain document types included in the WFMA law (see Mass.Gov/WFMA for more information). 11 For information on obtaining an SSN, call 1-800-772-1213. To obtain a replacement SSN, visit SSA.Gov Appeals If your application is denied, you may file an appeal within ten days after you received a written denial from the RMV. Any additional time required by the informal review does not extend the ten-day period. A formal appeal may be filed only with the Board of Appeals on Liability Policies and Bonds at the address below with a check or money order for $50. Board of Appeal on Motor Vehicle Liability, Policies and Bonds Division of Insurance 1000 Washington Street, Suite 810, Boston, MA 02118 617-521-7794 State.Ma.US/DOI To obtain a form online to appeal a decision of the RMV to the Division of Insurance's Board of Appeal, go to State.Ma.US/DOI and enter "appeal form" in the search box. Applying for a License You must obtain a learner’s permit before you can apply for any license. To get a learner’s permit, you must complete an application, present identification, pay a fee, pass a vision exam, and pass a learner’s permit exam. Your learner’s permit does not become a license until you pass the road test and have paid all license fees. If your learner’s permit expires, you must re-take the learner’s permit exam and pay the required fees. If you are a new Massachusetts resident and have an out-of-state driver’s license, you may be eligible to convert your license without testing. For information on license conversion and foreign license policies, visit Mass.Gov/RMV. Save time by starting your application online at Mass.Gov/RMV. Completing all the information in the application and indicating which documents you will bring will help ensure your transaction is successful. Make sure you visit the offical RMV website: Mass.Gov/RMV. Several similar looking, third party websites claim to offer RMV services and information, but may charge extra fees and your personal and financial information may not be safe with them. Getting a Learner’s Permit You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Class D or M learner’s permit. The learner’s permit exam that you must take tests your understanding of Massachusetts motor vehicle laws and safe driving practices. A learner’s permit gives you permission to drive (accompanied by a licensed operator at least 21 years old) while you practice your driving skills and prepare for your road test. A permit is valid up to two years. When applying for a learner’s permit, you can prepay your license and road test fees at that time. You can also use the "Pay My Road Test and/or License Fees" transaction on Mass.Gov/RMV to pay these fees before or after you take the road test. If fees have been paid, your driver’s license will be automatically sent to you, and you will not need to visit an RMV Service Center after passing the road test. 12 To earn your learner’s permit, take the following steps: 1. Study all of the information contained in this manual. 2. Complete a learner’s permit application, make a reservation to visit an RMV Service Center, and submit the application at the service center. This application can be completed online at Mass.Gov/RMV to save you time when you visit a service center. If you are under 18, you must have your parent or guardian sign your application. In completing the application, you will be required to disclose whether you have a physical, mental, or medical condition or are taking any medications that might affect your ability to operate a motor vehicle. 3. Meet all of the RMV’s identification requirements (visit Mass.Gov/ID for more information). 4. Pay a $30 learner’s permit exam fee, which covers the cost of your exam. 5. Have your photo-image and signature captured electronically. 6. Pass a vision test at the service center or submit an RMV vision screening certificate from your medical practitioner. 7. Pass a learner’s permit exam based on information in this manual. Learner’s permit exams can be taken in the service center when you submit your application. They are also available online at Mass.Gov/RMV after you submit your application. If you pass the exam online but cannot print the permit, you can call the RMV Contact Center at 857-368-8110. The RMV will print the permit and mail it to you in five-seven business days. A learner's permit is a document that grants conditional driving privileges. This document is not intended to be used as an identification document for travel. This means that it will not be accepted by most airlines, cruise ships, etc., for travel as a state-issued photo ID. Learner’s Permit Exam Procedures Each learner’s permit exam has 25 multiple-choice questions. Topics covered on the exam include alcohol misuse, suspensions, and JOL violations, as well as rules of the road and identifying road signs. To pass the exam, you must answer 18 questions correctly within the allotted time of 25 minutes. RMV Full Service Centers have automated testing stations (ATS), which are easy-to-use videoscreen kiosks that use a computer program to deliver learner’s permit exam questions visually. The learner’s permit exam is available in multiple languages (for a Class D or M permit) through the ATS and online. You have about one minute to answer each question. Learner's permit exams can also be taken online at Mass.Gov/RMV after visiting a service center. You must study the contents of this manual to be able to pass the learner’s permit exam. Driver's Manuals and other reference materials cannot be used during the learner’s permit exam and are not allowed in the testing area. You also are not allowed to wear or use any electronic device (including electronic optical devices), regardless of the purpose of the device. Audio devices or headphones cannot be used or worn, unless they are being used for taking an audio exam. Hats cannot be worn (unless for medical or religious reasons). Usage of a Driver's Manual, other reference material, or electronic device during the learner’s permit exam is considered cheating. 13 If you are caught cheating or trying to cheat on an exam, you will fail and be subject to further investigation. If you are found responsible for cheating, you will not be allowed to hold any type of driver’s license or permit for 60 days. Foreign Language Tests If English is not your primary language, you may ask to take the learner’s permit exam in a foreign language. The RMV currently offers Class D and M learner’s permit exams in a variety of languages. Class A, B, and C learner’s permit exams are only available in English. Class D and M learner's permit exams are available in the following languages: Albanian Arabic Armenian Burmese Cambodian (Khmer) Cape Verdean Creole Chinese (simplified) Chinese (traditional) Farsi French German Greek Gujarati Haitian/Creole Hindi Hungarian Italian Japanese Kiswahili Korean Laotian Pashto Polish Portuguese (Brazilian) Russian Serbo-Croatian (Latin) Somali Spanish Tagalog/Filipino Thai Turkish Ukranian Urdu Vietnamese Audio Exams Audio exams are available through the ATS. This feature allows you to hear an automated voice read the test questions and possible answers through headphones connected to the ATS. Audio exams are available in all the languages listed above for Class D and M exams, and in English only for CDL exams (per federal regulation). The time limit for Class D and M audio exams is 25 minutes. Anyone can choose to take an audio exam. The exam does not need to be scheduled in advance and you do not need to present any additional documentation to be eligible. If you want to use the audio feature for your exam, you should bring a set of headphones with you to the RMV Service Center. Every ATS has a splitter on the bottom of the machine with a universal connection for headphones. Alternative Exam Options If you have a cognitive or physical disability that would prevent you from taking a standard learner’s permit exam, you may request an alternative extended time, paper, or person-to-person oral exam. To request an extended time or paper exam, you must speak to the RMV Service Center Manager when you visit the service center. To request a person-to-person oral exam, please call 857-368-8105 and leave a message that includes your name, your telephone number, the specifics of your request, and the service center where you would like to take your exam. You will then be contacted by a Registry employee who will help you schedule an exam. For person-to-person oral exams, you must provide the manager with written documentation that confirms the nature of your disability. This documentation may be a Doctor's or Social Worker's letter, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), or a letter from a school on official letterhead. You will also need to provide all of the required identification documents (visit Mass.Gov/ID for more information). A person-to-person oral exam will only be provided if it has been scheduled in advance by calling the number above. Extended time and paper exams do not need to be scheduled in advance and do not require additional documentation. 14 For up-to-date information on interpreter or translation services for foreign language exams, visit Mass.Gov/RMV. Driving With Your Permit You must carry your learner’s permit whenever you drive until you earn a Junior Operator’s License or a full driver’s license. A Class D learner’s permit allows you to drive a passenger vehicle with the following limitations: You must be accompanied by a licensed operator who occupies the passenger seat next to you and is at least 21 years old, holds a valid driver’s license from Massachusetts or another state, and has at least one year of driving experience. If you are under 18, you may not drive between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is a validly licensed operator with at least one year of driving experience. A Class M learner’s permit allows you to operate a motorcycle with these limitations: You may not carry a passenger. You can drive only during daylight hours (between sunrise and sunset). You must wear a US DOT standard helmet. You must wear eyeglasses, goggles, or a protective face shield unless the motorcycle you are driving has a windshield or screen. With a Class D or Class M learner’s permit, you may operate motor vehicles in another state as long as doing so does not violate that state’s laws. See Chapter Three for a list of the penalties and fees you will face for violating any of these restrictions. Driver’s Education The RMV requires drivers under age 18 to take professional driving lessons at a local high school or driver school. Professional driving instruction can help you become a more skillful, knowledgeable driver, and it can increase your chances of passing the Class D or Class M road test on your first try. Another benefit of learning to drive through a licensed school is the ability to use a school vehicle for your road test and a school instructor as your test sponsor. All professional driver schools in Massachusetts, including public and private high schools, must be licensed and monitored by the RMV. More information can be found at Mass.Gov/RMV. You can also obtain information on driving instruction by contacting your local high school. If you doubt a driver school's credentials, ask to see a license certificate, which the RMV issues. To apply for a Class D or M driver’s license when you are between 16 1/2 and 18 years old, you must complete a driver’s education program, pass a final exam, and have a driver’s education certificate electronically on file with the RMV from a licensed driver school or a high school program that is approved by the RMV. The fact that you have fulfilled this requirement will be available on your RMV record at the time of your road test. 15 You must also complete 40 hours of supervised driving (30 hours if you completed a driver skills development program), and your parent or guardian must participate in two hours of the driver’s education curriculum (unless he/she already attended in the past five years). Driver Education Certificate Department, Registry of Motor Vehicles P.O. Box 55889, Boston, MA 02205-5889 If you recently moved to Massachusetts and had already completed a driver’s education program in another state, you must complete an Application to Convert Out-of-State Driver Education Certificate (available on Mass.Gov/RMV) and follow the instructions on the application. Verification will be made with the state that originally issued your driver’s education certificate. If the other state’s requirements meet or exceed Massachusetts’ requirements, a new driver’s education certificate will be electronically filed with the RMV. Once this is done, you may book your road test. To convert an out-of-state driver’s education certificate, the program you completed must meet or exceed Massachusetts minimum requirements for classroom and in-car instruction. If you have any questions, call the RMV at 857-368-8110. Taking the Road Test The next step toward earning your Massachusetts driver’s license is taking a road test with an RMV examiner. Whether you are applying for your first license or completing a license conversion that requires a road test, you must have a learner’s permit of the proper class to schedule a test. Road test procedures are described in the following pages. If you are obtaining a motorcycle license, or adding a motorcycle class to your Massachusetts driver’s license, you do not have to take a road test if you have successfully completed the Massachusetts Rider Education Program (MREP), approved by the RMV. For a Class D license, you are not allowed to attempt more than six road tests in a 12-month period. For a Class M license, if you fail two road tests, you must enroll in and successfully complete a beginner rider course before you can schedule another test. Scheduling a Road Test The best way to schedule, cancel, or reschedule your road test is online at Mass.Gov/ RMV. You can also call the RMV Contact Center. There is no additional fee if you cancel or reschedule with more than 72 hours notice. For up-to-date information on interpreter or translation services for road tests, visit Mass.Gov/RMV. For information on road tests for vehicles with ignition interlock devices, see the Ignition Interlock Devices section in Chapter Three. If you fail a road test or do not appear for your scheduled test, you must wait at least 14 days before taking another test. Road tests are scheduled close together; you must be on time for your test. If you are late for your appointment, you will not be tested and you will be required to pay the road test fee. All fees must be paid before you can schedule a new road test. 16 Massachusetts Rider Education Program The Massachusetts Rider Education Program (MREP) is designed to reduce the number of motorcycle related fatalities and injuries by increasing the availability of Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) approved training courses for motorcycle riders and to increase awareness and education for both riders and other drivers. If you successfully complete an MREP course, you do not need to take an RMV Class M road test. If you are under 18 years old, the MREP basic rider course is required to obtain a Class M license. You must also have a driver's education certificate. For information on motorcycle rider courses for both beginner and experienced drivers, call 857-368-2903 or visit Mass.Gov/RMV. The RMV has a Motorcycle Manual. This manual focuses exclusively on motorcycles and is available online at Mass.Gov/RMV. Study this manual if you want to get a Class M learner’s permit or add a motorcyle class to your Class D license. Policies on Cancellations and Fees Road tests will be canceled automatically when the Governor declares a state of emergency. If the Governor declares an emergency in a particular region, only road tests in that region will be canceled. Road Test Examiners may also cancel road tests when weather conditions are considered unsafe. To determine if your road test has been canceled, please visit Mass. Gov/RMV for posted notifications or call the RMV’s Contact Center. In any of the preceding cases, you may schedule a new road test at no additional fee. However, you will be charged the road test fee if you... Fail the test Are unprepared for the test Are refused the test because your vehicle fails to pass the examiner’s inspection Do not bring a qualified sponsor Fail to appear for or are late for your test Cancel or reschedule your test with less than 72 hours notice Rejected Road Tests Road Test Examiners may reject road tests for the following reasons: You or your sponsor are showing signs of alcohol or substance impairment An odor of alcohol or marijuana is coming from you or your sponsor, including from clothing or inside the vehicle Minor children, babies, or animals are present in the vehicle and cannot be left unsupervised at the Service Center. Trained service animals are allowed in the vehicle, but emotional support animals are not. 17 Being Prepared for the Road Test Refer to this page to prepare for your road test: www.mass.gov/guides/road-test-information On the day you take your Class D road test, you must fulfill several requirements: 1. Have a completed road test application, and have your parent or guardian complete the parental consent section if you are under age 18. In completing the application for the road test, you will be required to disclose whether you have a physical, mental, or medical condition or are taking any medications that might affect your ability to operate a motor vehicle. If you do, prior to taking a road test, you must submit medical clearance from your physician. The Road Test Examiner will review your application and either approve it or forward it to Medical Affairs for appropriate review. 2. Have your printed learner’s permit. 3. Bring a qualified sponsor (see the Sponsor Requirements section). The sponsor must have their current valid license with them. Note: A sponsor is not required for a Class M road test. 4. Provide an acceptable, properly equipped, legally registered vehicle (with the registration certificate) to use in your test (see the Passenger Vehicle Requirements section). If you are under age 18, you must maintain a clean driving record for the six consecutive months immediately preceding the date you apply for the test. You will not be able to take the test if you... Have experienced any surchargeable incidents (e.g., at-fault crashes, moving violations) under Massachusetts law or the law of another state Have had your permit suspended for committing drug or alcohol related motor vehicle violations Have been convicted for violating any drug or alcohol related laws in Massachusetts or another state Note: Even if you had a clean driving record for six consecutive months immediately preceding the date you first booked the road test, if the RMV receives notice of an event that would cause the six-month clean driving period to be interrupted between the date the test was booked and the date of the test itself, you will not be allowed to take the road test when scheduled. A new clean driving record of at least six months will have to be established, unless you reach 18 years of age prior to that time. For a Class M road test, you must bring your printed learner’s permit, a completed license application form, and a properly equipped, legally registered motorcycle, but you are not required to bring a sponsor. If you are under 18 years old, you are not eligible for an RMV Class M road test and must complete the MREP basic rider course to get a Class M license. Sponsor Requirements For a Class D license, including a JOL, you need a sponsor for your road test, even if you have a valid foreign driver’s license. When you arrive at the test location, you must be accompanied by a licensed operator who... 18 Is at least 21 years old Has had at least one year of driving experience Has a valid driver’s license issued by their home state. Holders of foreign driver’s licenses are not eligible to be sponsors. Operators are not allowed to sponsor more than three different applicants within a one year period without approval from the RMV Road Test Program. If you are not accompanied by a sponsor, you will not be given a Class D road test. Passenger Vehicle Requirements To be acceptable to the examiner, the vehicle you bring to the road test must meet all requirements in this section. In general, the vehicle you use for your Class D road test should be safe and in good working order. You must show your vehicle registration to the examiner and the vehicle must be properly inspected. Your test will be canceled if the examiner believes your vehicle is unsafe. In addition to being safe, your vehicle must have these features: Adequate seating so that the examiner may sit next to you and your sponsor may sit in the rear seat behind the driver. You may not use a vehicle that does not have a seat for your sponsor. Sponsors may not sit in the bed of a two passenger pickup truck. An accessible parking brake so the examiner can make an emergency stop. It is up to the individual examiner to determine if the parking brake would be accessible to them in an emergency. To help ensure that brake access will not be a problem, you should bring a vehicle to the test that has a centrally located parking brake. If you have any questions about whether a vehicle is acceptable, you should take it to the scheduled road test location on the business day prior to the scheduled test. If you are prevented from taking the road test only because the examiner determined that they could not access the braking system, you will not be charged a fee for that scheduled test. Driving instruction vehicles must have a second foot brake for instructors or examiners and must display proper signage. In some larger vehicles, like certain minivans, the parking brake is too far from the examiner to be easily accessible in an emergency. These vehicles are not suitable for road tests and may be rejected by the examiner. If your test vehicle is registered out of state, you must show the examiner proof of insurance coverage equal to Massachusetts minimum limits, which are $20,000/$40,000 for bodily injury and $5,000 for property damage. A policy or a certificate that lists coverage limits serves as proof of a vehicle’s insurance. If you are renting the vehicle you are using for your road test, you must show your examiner your rental agreement and a letter from the rental company, on its letterhead, that authorizes you and your sponsor to use the vehicle for a driver’s license road test. You are not required to provide this information for leased vehicles. A vehicle cannot be used for a road test if one of its tires has been replaced by a "donut" (limited use spare) tire. 19 Road Test Policy for Vehicles with Dealer, Farm, and Repair Plates You cannot take a road test in a passenger vehicle that is registered with a "dealer" plate unless you can prove, to the satisfaction of the examiner, that you are the dealer, or spouse of the dealer, or a salesperson who works at the dealership. A vehicle with a farm plate can be used, if acceptable to the examiner, but only if the applicant can prove, to the satisfaction of the examiner, that the applicant is a member of the family or an employee of the farmer. If displaying a farm plate, the vehicle cannot be a passenger vehicle, but may be a pickup truck with an acceptable rear seat for a sponsor. You will not be allowed to take a road test in a vehicle with a repair plate. Passenger Vehicle Test Procedures Road test videos are available online at Mass.Gov/RMV in the road test section. These videos will help you prepare for the road test and show you what to expect during the test. You should arrive approximately 15 minutes early for your scheduled road test appointment. If you are late, you may not be able to take your road test. Before your road test, the RMV examiner will inspect your vehicle to ensure that it is properly registered, that all equipment is in good working order, and that the vehicle provides a safe, adequate, and clean seat for the examiner and easy access to the brake. During your Class D road test, you must prove you have the skills and abilities needed to operate most private passenger vehicles, small trucks, vans, and SUVs. Most newer vehicles are equipped with "specialized features", such as backing sensors, back-up cameras, automatic parallel parking, and GPS-guided independent operation. These features substantially assist a driver with certain driving, parking, or backing skills. These devices will not need to be disabled. However, your driving skills and abilities without relying only on these specialized features will be tested. If adaptive equipment for a legitimate medical condition is installed in the vehicle and necessary for operation, or if you need to use specialized features, a “mechanical/software aid” restriction will be added to a license. After the examiner inspects and approves the vehicle, the driving test will begin. Only you, the examiner, and your sponsor are allowed in the vehicle during the test. The examiner will sit in the seat next to you; your sponsor must sit in the seat behind you. No children or pets are allowed. Trained service animals are allowed in the vehicle, but emotional support animals are not. A language interpreter may also be allowed in the vehicle. You and your sponsor/interpreter are not allowed to converse unless authorized by the examiner. The examiner’s goal is to observe your driving performance. During a road test, you should be prepared to demonstrate your ability to... Use hand signals Start the engine Start and stop the vehicle Parallel Park Back the vehicle approximately 50 feet Make left - right turns Start, stop, and turn the vehicle on a hill 20 Turn around between curbs (three point turn) Enter and leave intersections Recognize and obey traffic signs, lights and signals, and other rules of the road Use good driving sense In addition to judging your overall driving skills, the examiner will note how well you follow general good-driving procedures, including whether you... Use good driving posture, with both hands always placed properly on the wheel Drive in the proper lane and look carefully and signal properly before changing lanes Maintain enough distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you Always drive at safe speeds to comply with speed limits and varying traffic conditions Properly yield the right-of-way Are generally aware of your actions and particularly those of other drivers The RMV has a Motorcycle Manual. This manual focuses exclusively on motorcycles and is only available online at Mass.Gov/RMV. Check it out for important information you need to get a motorcycle license and to be a safer rider. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Road Tests If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can schedule a road test by calling 1-877-RMV- TTDD (1-877-768-8833). Describe your request, the location where you would like to take your road test, and include your phone number, residential address, and e-mail address. The Driver Licensing Department will then contact you to book the road test. Once the test is booked, they will contact the Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to arrange for an interpreter. Before the start of the road test, the examiner will explain the elements of the test and how to effectively communicate during the test. You and the interpreter will also be provided with a written description of the road test and the required elements to review before starting the test. If you have any questions during the road test, you will be allowed to pull over to the side of the road (when safe to do so) and communicate with the examiner. For up-to-date information on interpreter or translation services for road tests, visit Mass.Gov/RMV. Common Reasons for Failing a Road Test You were driving in a way that may have caused a crash or in a way the examiner considered dangerous. You violated a motor vehicle law, rule, or regulation. You demonstrated a lack of experience safely operating a motor vehicle. You refused to follow or drove contrary to the examiner’s instructions. You didn't know the hand signals (see page 77). You were at fault in a crash with another motor vehicle, pedestrian, or object. Note: The RMV has a zero tolerance policy for violent or abusive conduct by road test applicants and sponsors. 21 Receiving Your New License To avoid visiting an RMV Service Center after you pass your road test, you can either pay your road test and license fees at the time you schedule the test, or you can pay online at Mass.Gov/RMV using the "Pay My Road Test and/or License Fees" transaction. If you pass the road test, have prepaid for your license, and have no outstanding obligations, the examiner will stamp your learner's permit and it will become a temporary license, valid up to 60 days (unless the permit expires before that). The RMV will manufacture your new, permanent photo-image license and mail it to you. If you are over the age of 20, but still have a photo on file from when you were under 20, you will need to make a reservation to visit a service center to obtain your license. If you pass the road test and have not prepaid for your license, within 60 days, you must either pay online or make a reservation to take the permit with the road test results indicated to a service center. Please note, however, that if you pay online and do not visit a service center, you will not receive a temporary license. (Note: If you do not pay within 60 days of passing your road test, you may be required to retake the road test at your expense.) If your permanent license does not arrive in the mail within 30 days, please call the RMV Contact Center. Whenever you operate a motor vehicle in Massachusetts, the law requires you to carry a valid driver’s license on your person or within easy reach inside your vehicle. Massachusetts driver’s licenses are produced at a secure location and are generally mailed to you within 10-14 business days after you visit the RMV Service Center. At the service center, you will receive a receipt that serves as a temporary license and provides proof of driving privileges while the permanent license is being manufactured. The receipt is not valid for identification. This means that it will not be accepted by most airlines, cruise ships, etc., for travel as a state-issued photo ID. Converting From Another Jurisdiction Junior Operator License Conversion License Conversion for a Junior Operator requires that you provide a certified copy of your driving record from the state you are leaving, in addition to meeting the RMV’s identification requirements (visit Mass.Gov/ID for more information). You must also have a Massachusetts driver’s education certificate electronically on file with the RMV (see Driver’s Education section) and you must log an additional 40 hours of supervised driving (30 hours if you completed a driver skills development program) as shown by a certified statement provided by a parent or guardian. You will be subject to all of the provisions of the Massachusetts JOL law (See the Junior Operator License Law section). The only exception is the period of time you will be subject to the passenger restriction, which depends on your driving record. If your record indicates you have had a valid license for a full six months, without suspension or revocation, you will not be subject to the passenger restriction. 22 To convert an out-of-state driver’s education certificate, the program you completed must meet or exceed Massachusetts minimum requirements for classroom and in-car instruction. If you have any questions, call the RMV Contact Center. Permit Conversion Class D and M Learner’s Permits may be converted to an equivalent Massachusetts issued permit if you meet the RMV’s identification requirements (visit Mass.Gov/ID for more information). To be eligible for conversion, you must present the current out-of-state permit issued less than two years ago. You must also provide a certified driving record (not more than 30 days old). If you are under 18 years old, your parent or guardian must sign the permit application. You will not be required to take the learner’s permit exam; however, you will need to pay the applicable fee. A converted permit will be dated to reflect the issue date of the original permit in order to meet the six month experience requirement for applicants under 18. The Massachusetts issued permit will expire two years from the adjusted issue date or, for REAL ID applicants, at the end of your authorized stay in the U.S. (whichever comes first). Conversions from a U.S. Territory, Canada, or Mexico When converting a permit or license from one of the 14 U.S. Territories, Canada, or Mexico, you must meet the RMV’s identification requirements. You must submit an original certified driving record from your home territory or country. Driving records must be no more than 30 days old. See Mass.Gov/RMV for the translation policy for foreign language documents. An original certified driving record is required from the 14 U.S. Territories, Canada, and Mexico because the driving records of those jurisdictions are not available for electronic review by the RMV through the Problem Driver Pointer System. The 14 U.S. Territories consist of the following: American Samoa Baker Island Guam Howland Island Jarvis Island Johnston Atoll Kingman Reef Midway Islands Navassa Island Northern Mariana Islands Palmyra Atoll Puerto Rico U.S. Virgin Islands Wake Islands Source - The Worldfact Book (U.S. CIA-2004) A Puerto Rican birth certificate will only be accepted for identification if it was issued on or after July 1, 2010. For more information on the Puerto Rican birth certificate law, visit the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration website. Voter Registration If you are a U.S. citizen and legally eligible to vote, your information will be sent to the appropriate election office when you conduct a permit, license, or ID transaction. This information will be used to register you to vote or update your current voter registration. You will receive a receipt and voter information in the mail from election officials. This mailing will include information about enrolling in a political party. It will also allow you to decline to register to vote. 23 You must be a U.S. citizen and at least 16 years old to register to vote. You must be at least 18 years old to be eligible to vote. If you are registered to vote and you change your address, your information will be forwarded first to the Secretary of State’s Central Voter Registry and then to your local election office, which will send you a confirmation notice in the mail. For more information on registering to vote or the election process, call the State Election Line at 1-800-462-VOTE or 617-727-2828. Veteran's Indicator If you are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces and were honorably discharged, you can choose to have the word "Veteran" printed on your license or ID card. The Veteran's Indicator can be added when you apply for, renew, or order a duplicate permit, license, or ID card. There is no additional fee for the Veteran's Indicator. If your license or ID card is not eligible for renewal, you can obtain a free duplicate with the Veteran’s Indicator. Regular transaction fees apply for other transactions. One of the following documents must be presented as proof of honorable discharge in person with a reservation at an RMV Service Center: A DD-214 that indicates honorable discharge A DD-215 that indicates honorable discharge An Honorable Discharge form The information on the form must be typed (not handwritten). Organ and Tissue Donor Program Every day, 17 people in the United States die waiting for organ transplants. Currently, there are over 120,000 total patients waiting for an organ transplant in the United States. Thousands more await life enhancing tissue transplants. When you apply for a Massachusetts driver’s license or identification card, you will have the opportunity to become an organ and tissue donor. By registering as an organ and tissue donor with the RMV, you will be entered into the Massachusetts Donor Registry, which is legal consent for donation. However, you should also share your decision to donate with your family and friends so that they know about your decision to become an organ and tissue donor. You can register as an organ donor, or change your organ donor status, anytime on Mass.Gov/RMV. Even if you are currently a registered donor, you still need to check “yes” on question one of the license or ID card renewal form in order to remain in the donor registry. If you have any questions, please contact one of the organ donor organizations listed below. For more information on organ and tissue donation: Visit neds.org or unos.org Call New England Organ Bank at 1-800-446-6362 Call LifeChoice Donor Services at 1-800-874-5215 24 When you renew your license or ID online at Mass.Gov/RMV, or order a duplicate license or ID, you will have the choice to give $2 to the Organ and Tissue Donor Registration Fund. This $2 will be added to the renewal or duplicate fee. Note: The RMV is required by law to provide certain information identifying organ and tissue donors to federally-designated organ procurement organizations and other federally registered non-profit eye and tissue banks serving the Commonwealth. Organ Donor FAQs (see Mass.Gov/RMV for more FAQs) Q. What does the heart symbol on my license/ID represent? A. It indicates that you are in the Massachusetts Donor Registry and have consented to organ/tissue donation. Q. Can I be an organ/tissue donor if I don’t have the heart symbol on my license/ID? A. Yes. You can register as an organ/tissue donor anytime on Mass.Gov/RMV. You don’t need to get a new license/ID. Your license/ID won’t have the heart symbol, but your name will be in the Donor Registry’s database. When it is time to get a new license/ID, the heart symbol will then be printed on it. Q. What is the Massachusetts Donor Registry? A. The Donor Registry is a database that contains the names of everyone who has signed up to be an organ and tissue donor at the RMV. The database is checked (via computer) when necessary. This eliminates the need to look for a donor card or a license that could be misplaced or lost. Q. Do you need to carry a donor card with your license (in addition to the heart symbol)? A. No, you do not need to carry a donor card if you have the heart symbol on your license. The heart symbol indicates that you are in the Massachusetts Donor Registry and have consented to organ/tissue donation. The Donor Registry is checked whenever an individual becomes a potential candidate for donation. Q. Will it cost my family anything if I donate organs/tissues? A. Organ and tissue donation is completely free. A donor’s family is not charged. 25 License/ID Fees Learner’s permit exam fee - $30.00 The learner’s permit exam fee covers the cost of processing your application and administering your learner’s permit exam. If you fail the exam or your permit expires, you will be charged this fee again for another examination. Road test fee - $35.00 The RMV charges a flat fee for any license application. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and scheduling a road test. If you fail the road test, do not appear for the road test, are rejected by the examiner, or cancel your appointment with less than 72 hours notice, you will still be charged the $35 fee, which must be paid prior to a new test being booked. For more details on road testing, see the Taking the Road Test section. License issue/renew fee - Class D - $50.00 License issue/renew fee - Class M - $50.00 The RMV charges a driver’s license fee so it can issue a tamper-resistant, Class D or Class M license. Fees for licenses issued for less than five years will be prorated based on length of issuance. Duplicate or amended license - $25.00 The RMV charges a fee for any change that results in the reissuance of a license. Out-of-state conversion fees Class A* - $140.00 Class B* - $140.00 Class C* - $140.00 Class D* - $115.00 *To add motorcycle privileges (Class M) to any of these license classes, you must pay an additional $3.00 per year. The Class M privilege will expire the same time as the existing license. If your license is eligible for renewal when you add the Class M privilege, it may be best for you to renew the license at the same time. Class M only - $115.00 Class D or M permit conversion - $30.00 All fees are subject to change at any time. All license fees are non-refundable. Disabled Veterans do not pay any fees for driver's license transactions if they have Disabled Veteran plates or if they have qualified for Disabled Veteran plates with Medical Affairs. 26 Safety First Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death of children and young adults in America. About one in three Americans will be injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash. One in three. CHAPTER 2 Chances are good that you will be in a motor vehicle crash sometime in your life. It does not matter how good a driver you are. You can never predict when a crash might happen. Your driving behavior affects not only your safety, but also that of your passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and everyone else on the road. Keep others safe by driving safely and avoiding reckless behaviors. Proper maintenance of your vehicle and regular inspections are also important for safe driving. This chapter explains motor vehicle safety laws. It also gives tips on how to avoid serious trouble. 27 Passenger Vehicle Safety Passenger vehicles, including vans and pickup trucks, must have working safety equipment. Each passenger vehicle must have all of the following: A working, undamaged safety belt for the driver and all passengers A mirror A horn A lock for the engine’s ignition Windshield wipers An exhaust muffler A foot brake and a parking brake A working driver's side window that moves up and down Each passenger vehicle must also have lights for driving in the dark. There must be two approved white headlights in the front, two approved red lights in the back, and directional signals. The vehicle must also have three red stop (brake) lights in the back and a small white light above the back license plate. The Highway Assistance Patrol (HAP) provides help to stranded drivers. It is operated by the MassDOT-Highway Division and sponsored by MAPFRE | Commerce Insurance. For more information, visit MassDOT.State.MA.US/Highway/TrafficTravelResources/ EmergencyRoadsideAssistance.aspx If the directional signals or brake lights on your vehicle stop working, you must have them fixed right away. Until they are fixed, you must use hand signals when turning or slowing (see page 77 for hand-signal diagrams). Every vehicle must pass an annual safety and emissions inspection. A passenger vehicle may have a spot light that can only be used to read signs or as an emergency light if the headlights are not working. A spot light can only shine two feet above the roadway 30 feet away from your vehicle. Emergency lights (flashing, rotating, oscillating, or strobe lights) are not allowed on a vehicle unless you get a permit from the RMV. Some equipment and changes to your vehicle are illegal. Glass tinting is allowed on passenger vehicles, but there are restrictions. You can darken your side and rear windows up to 35 percent. It is illegal to tint your windshield. Safety/Seat Belt Law In 2020, 12,150 people who were not wearing a safety belt were killed in crashes in the United States. Massachusetts law requires every person in a passenger motor vehicle (including vans and small trucks under 18,000 lbs.) to wear a safety belt or sit in a child passenger restraint. Any driver who is not wearing a safety belt can be fined $25. Any passenger 16 years old or older who is not wearing a safety belt can be fined $25.

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