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How to get a driver's license in Massachusetts as an immigrant

Everything a new arrival in Massachusetts needs to know, from driving on a foreign license to the documents the DMV accepts from non-citizens. Facts are quoted from official sources.

Quick answers

Drive on a foreign license?
Foreign licensed drivers age 16+ may drive with a valid license; if not in English, an IDP or translation is needed.
Deadline after moving
Not stated in official sources
License exchange without tests
6 countries
License without immigration status
Yes
No SSN?
Applicants with an SSN must provide it; those never issued one may sign an Affidavit of No SSN (only with Option B identity documents).

Driving on a foreign license

Foreign licensed drivers age 16+ may drive with a valid license; if not in English, an IDP or translation is needed.

Exchanging a foreign license

  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • South Korea
  • Germany
  • France
  • Taiwan

Valid Class D-equivalent license, age 18+, Massachusetts resident. Canada/Mexico need a certified driving record (30 days) and eye test; Korea needs a driving record (60 days); Germany needs a driving record (30 days) and appointment; French and Taiwanese licenses are surrendered. U.S. territories also qualify. Conversion fee $115.

If your country is not on the list

Licenses from other countries cannot be converted; meet ID requirements, pass the learner's permit exam and road test.

If you are a licensed driver from a country which does not have an established arrangement www.mass.gov

Documents for non-citizens

Examples of accepted immigration documents:

  • Permanent Resident Card (I-551)
  • Employment Authorization Document (I-766)
  • Foreign passport with valid U.S. visa and I-94
  • Foreign passport (no visa required) or Consular ID card with a second document (Standard license)

License validity: Learner's permits are valid for 2 years or the length of your stay in the U.S.

License regardless of immigration status

Work and Family Mobility Act (effective July 1, 2023): eligible residents can get a Standard (Class D or M) license regardless of immigration status; not REAL ID.

Under the new law, which became effective on Saturday, July 1, eligible Massachusetts residents can apply www.mass.gov

Social Security number

Applicants with an SSN must provide it; those never issued one may sign an Affidavit of No SSN (only with Option B identity documents).

Applicants with a social security number (SSN) MUST provide their SSN. www.mass.gov

Proof of residency

Proof of Massachusetts residency showing your name and current address (e.g., bills, lease, mortgage); number required not confirmed.

Document must display current residential address with applicant's name. www.mass.gov

Step by step

  1. Gather identity/date-of-birth documents (e.g., foreign passport or consular ID plus a second document), SSN or Affidavit of No SSN, and Massachusetts residency proof; translate non-English documents.
  2. Book a learner's permit appointment at an RMV Service Center and pay the $30 permit fee.
  3. Pass the vision test and the 25-question permit exam (18 correct to pass).
  4. Practice with a sponsor age 21+ with at least 1 year of driving experience (no driver's ed required if over 18).
  5. Book and pass the Class D road test ($35) in your own registered, inspected vehicle with your sponsor.
  6. Pay the license fee and receive your license.
  7. Canada, Mexico, South Korea, Germany, France and Taiwan license holders can convert without tests ($115).

Fees

Learner's permit application $30; road test $35; license fee amount not confirmed.

The $35 road test fee is not refunded if you: www.mass.gov

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Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV before your visit. This is not legal advice.