To apply for a Massachusetts ID card, download the Driver’s License, Learner’s Permit or ID Card Application (Form LIC100) from the Registry of Motor Vehicles website, gather your original identity and residency documents, book an appointment at an RMV Service Center through the myRMV portal, and bring everything plus the $25 fee to your visit.1Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Apply for a Massachusetts Identification Card (Mass ID) If your paperwork is in order, the whole process usually finishes in a single trip.
Who Qualifies for a Mass ID
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 8E sets three rules: you must be at least 14 years old, live in Massachusetts, and not hold a valid driver’s license from any state or jurisdiction.2General Court of Massachusetts. Massachusetts Code Chapter 90 Section 8E – Identification Cards for Persons Not Possessing Motor Vehicle Licenses That last rule trips people up. If you have an active out-of-state license, you need to surrender it or let it expire before the RMV will issue a Mass ID.
During the application, you choose between two versions. A Standard Mass ID handles any state-level purpose: buying age-restricted products, opening a bank account, verifying your identity for an employer. A REAL ID adds federal compliance, which matters because REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025. You now need a REAL ID-compliant card (or a valid passport or other TSA-accepted document) to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities.3Transportation Security Administration. REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions If you fly domestically and don’t carry a passport, the REAL ID version is worth the slightly heavier document load. Both versions cost the same and are valid for up to five years from the date of issue.2General Court of Massachusetts. Massachusetts Code Chapter 90 Section 8E – Identification Cards for Persons Not Possessing Motor Vehicle Licenses
Documents to Bring
Gathering everything before your appointment is the single most important step. The RMV will turn you away if anything is missing, and you’ll have to schedule a new visit.
For a REAL ID
You need four documents across three categories:4Mass.gov. REAL ID in Massachusetts
- One proof of lawful presence: a valid U.S. passport, certified U.S. birth certificate, permanent resident card, or other immigration document showing legal status. Non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents must show they have been granted a legal stay of at least 12 months to qualify for a REAL ID.
- One proof of Social Security number: a Social Security card, W-2, SSA-1099, or other document displaying your full nine-digit number.
- Two proofs of Massachusetts residency: utility bills, bank statements, a lease or mortgage statement, or similar documents showing your current residential address.
All documents must be originals. No photocopies, no laminated copies. Your current legal name must match across every document you bring. If your name has changed through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the relevant certificate or court document to bridge the gap.4Mass.gov. REAL ID in Massachusetts
For a Standard Mass ID
A Standard Mass ID still requires proof of identity and Massachusetts residency, and lawful presence documentation is required regardless of which version you choose.5Mass.gov. Massachusetts Identification (ID) Requirements The RMV publishes a Standard Mass ID Documents Checklist on its website listing exactly which documents satisfy each category. Review it before your appointment, because the accepted documents can differ slightly from the REAL ID list.
A Note on Residency Addresses
The address on your residency documents must match the address you write on the application. This is where a surprising number of applications stall. If you recently moved, make sure at least two pieces of mail or official documents already show your new address before you book. When filling out the form, double-check that your apartment number, street spelling, and zip code match your documents exactly.
Filling Out the Application
Download Form LIC100 from the RMV’s forms page.6Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. RMV Forms and Applications The form covers driver’s licenses, learner’s permits, and ID cards, so you’ll only complete the sections that apply to an ID card.
You’ll be asked for your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and residential address. Write your name exactly as it appears on your proof-of-identity document. Not a nickname, not an abbreviated middle name. Even a small mismatch between the form and your supporting documents can get flagged.
The form also includes a voter registration section. Under the National Voter Registration Act, every application for a state-issued identification card must include a voter registration opportunity.7Department of Justice. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA) You can register, update your registration, or decline, but you have to complete the section either way. If you’re already registered at your current address, you can indicate that.
Booking Your Appointment
Both Standard and REAL ID applicants must schedule an in-person appointment before visiting an RMV Service Center.5Mass.gov. Massachusetts Identification (ID) Requirements You book through the myRMV online portal. Availability varies by location, so check several Service Centers if your preferred one is booked out.
If you’re a AAA member applying for a REAL ID, you can schedule at a participating AAA branch instead. AAA locations handle REAL ID applications, renewals, and replacements for members who make an online reservation.8Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. RMV Services at AAA For a Standard ID, you’ll need to visit an RMV Service Center directly.
What Happens at the Service Center
Bring your completed application, all original supporting documents, and your payment. An RMV representative reviews each document against the information on your form and takes a digital photo for the card. Plan to be there for roughly 30 to 45 minutes, though wait times vary.
The fee is $25 for either a Standard or REAL ID Mass ID.9Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Fees Most Service Centers accept cash, check, money order, and credit or debit cards, but accepted methods can vary by location. Check what your specific Service Center takes before you go.1Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Apply for a Massachusetts Identification Card (Mass ID)
Once the RMV accepts your documents and processes your payment, you’ll receive a temporary paper ID valid for 60 days. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 10 to 14 business days.1Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Apply for a Massachusetts Identification Card (Mass ID) If 30 days pass with nothing in the mail, contact the RMV. Don’t wait until the temporary document expires.
Applying for a Minor
Applicants between 14 and 17 meet the age requirement under state law but should expect additional steps at the Service Center.2General Court of Massachusetts. Massachusetts Code Chapter 90 Section 8E – Identification Cards for Persons Not Possessing Motor Vehicle Licenses A parent or legal guardian typically needs to accompany the minor, provide their own identification, and sign the application. Bring the guardian’s photo ID and any document establishing the legal relationship, such as a birth certificate listing the parent, to avoid being turned away. Call the RMV or check the website to confirm the current requirements for minors before your appointment, since these details can change.