How to Replace Your Drivers License in Massachusetts
1. Get Started With Drivers License Replacement Assistance Online
If your license has been recently lost or stolen, you will need to replace it as soon as possible. Without a valid license, you will not be able to drive legally in your state or present a valid form of identification when necessary. The two most common methods of replacing your lost or stolen license are visiting your local licensing location in person or applying for a replacement online. Under certain circumstances, you may also be able to replace your license or ID by mail. However, the fastest and most efficient way to replace your driving credential is online. To learn how to replace your license online, you can refer to our helpful drivers license guide. In addition to helping you through the replacement process, our guide will also teach you how to renew and change the name or address on your license.
2. By Mail
Most states offer a mail-in application option to residents who have lost their license while out of the state. In most cases, military service members stationed outside of the state will also be able to apply for a replacement by mail. To apply, you will need to mail in a primary and secondary proof of identification, such as a birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, Social Security card or W-2 form. You will also need to send proof of a residential address such as a deed, voter registration card or utility bill. Depending on your state, you will be required to provide any combination of the aforementioned documents, in addition to other documents and information. You will also need to keep in mind that it may take several weeks to obtain your replacement license, as mail can often be delayed or unreliable.
3. In Person at a DMV Office
Finally, you can replace your lost or stolen license at your local DMV or licensing office. You will be required to bring all the documents previously mentioned as proof of identification and residency. If you are uncomfortable mailing these important documents to the DMV, then an in-person visit is more secure. However, you may need to reschedule an appointment if you forget your passport, citizenship certificate, car title or any other documents that you are using as proof of identification or residency. Additionally, if you make any mistakes on your form, you will not be able to receive your replacement license or ID the same day you apply for it at the DMV.
A damaged or lost driver license in Massachusetts must be replaced before drivers may operate a vehicle. You must always have a valid copy of drivers license credentials in your possession to legally drive in the state. A valid license also means having the correct information listed on the card itself. You will need to request a replacement if important details have changed. Fortunately, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) offers an easy process to obtain an updated copy.
The replacement drivers license process is available through several methods depending on your need and ability. Learn more about how to replace drivers license documentation in MA, including applicable fees and replacement methods, by reading the information provided below.
When is a replacement drivers license required in Massachusetts?
You must obtain a duplicate drivers license in Massachusetts whenever you cannot locate your original card, whether it was misplaced or possibly stolen. You must also replace drivers license credentials if your plastic card becomes bent, frayed, faded or otherwise mutilated enough to become unreadable. This includes defacement such as the card being marked so that you cannot read the details or identify the person photographed.
Sometimes a drivers license replacement is required due to a name correction after a marriage, divorce or court order. Your cards should always have the most up-to-date information and you will need to complete a change of name on a drivers license in Massachusetts if you legally alter your designation.
You may need a new card as the result of a drastic change in appearance or a gender transition because your license should always feature a photograph that closely resembles you.
Note: Any old or damaged copy of drivers license cards should be destroyed upon receipt of your replacement license.
How to Replace Your Drivers License Online in Massachusetts
You may request an MA drivers license copy online by visiting the state’s website and entering your name, date of birth, driver’s license number and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. You will also need to and be able to pay your duplicate drivers license fee by credit card and provide the RMV with a valid email address.
How to Replace Your Drivers License by Phone in Massachusetts
You are also able to replace lost drivers license cards by phone in Massachusetts. The RMV provides several phone numbers for drivers in the state to call, which vary based on the motorist’s location. The state also provides a number for deaf or hard-of-hearing customers. Replacing drivers license credentials over the phone requires you to provide the RMV agent with certain details such as the following:
- Your first and last name
- Your date of birth
- The last four digits of your Social Security number
You should be prepared to pay your DMV duplicate license fee by credit or debit card as with the online method.
How to Replace Your Massachusetts Drivers License in Person
If you are wondering, “Where can I get a copy of my drivers license in person?” then you can check out a list of RMV offices located throughout the state. You may also get copy of driver license credentials at a local AAA branch office if you are a member of the American Automotive Association.
You must complete and submit the MassDOT application form at either location. This form to replace drivers license documentation can be downloaded and printed ahead of time and filled out at home or you may wait to obtain a copy of it when you visit the RMV Service Center or AAA office.
When requesting an RMV duplicate license, your age will influence which additional documents you need to furnish. If you are older than 18 years of age, then you will also need to provide three forms of ID that prove your date of birth, MA residency and your signature.
Applicants younger than 18 years of age replacing drivers license cards must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, who must sign the form on the minor’s behalf. Those younger than 18 need only to provide a birth certificate or other document proving date of birth. The fees for replacement credentials may be paid at the time of the request by cash, check, money order, credit card or debit card.
Out-of-State Drivers License Replacement in Massachusetts
Massachusetts drivers who are out-of-state when they need to replace lost drivers license documentation will find it easy to obtain by simply follow the directions above for ordering a drivers license copy online or by phone. Be sure to update your mailing address and phone number to reflect your current location.
Massachusetts Drivers License Replacement Fees
When you replace drivers license credentials in MA, you will pay a fee of $25 regardless of the method you choose. Although credit card payments are required when you get a copy of your drivers license documents online or by phone, you can pay in person with a check or money order made payable to MassDOT.
Note: No matter the method you choose to replace your stolen, damaged or lost drivers license, your duplicate copy will be sent to your mailing address on record within five to seven days after submitting your application. You cannot cancel a duplicate drivers license application or return the new document after it arrives. If there is less than one year left on your current license renewal period, then you may decide not to replace the lost license but order a full driving license renewal instead.
Sources
- Replace your driver's license from Mass.gov