Getting your first Massachusetts driver license
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
If under 18, complete driver's education (30 classroom hours, 12 behind the wheel, 6 observing).
Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Hold your permit 6 months with a clean record and log 40 supervised hours if under 18.
Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Schedule your road test with your name, date of birth, Social Security number and permit number.
Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Bring your permit, a qualified sponsor, a completed road test application and a suitable registered vehicle.
Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pay the road test and license fees online before or after the test.
Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026After you pass, your stamped permit is your temporary license until the card arrives by mail.
Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- License and road test fees
- Class D license $50 (5 years); license application and road test fee $35.Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Road test sponsor
- Bring a sponsor who is 21+, has at least 1 year of driving experience and a valid U.S. state license, plus a registered, inspected vehicle with an examiner-reachable parking brake.Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Road test fee
- $35; not refunded if you fail, are unprepared, don't show up, or cancel with less than 72 hours' notice.Source: mass.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Massachusetts guide
Official Massachusetts links
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