There’s a lot going on right now with business closures, remote work, and social distancing. Naturally, something like renewing your license is easy to overlook. We’ve come across a few people lately who didn’t realize their license had expired months ago or who assumed that an automatic extension applied to them. Here’s what you need to know about Massachusetts drivers license renewal amid COVID.
Extension of Drivers License Expiration Dates
There was an extension of drivers license expiration dates last year, but only for ones expiring from March to August. It was a 6 month extension, so if your license indicated a March expiration, you were extended through September. If your license expired in August, it was extended through December of 2020. For license expirations in September or later, there was no extension. This means that if you currently have a license that is expired, it truly is expired and you are driving without a valid license!
Renewing a Driver’s License
The Massachusetts RMV is still closed to walk-in visitors, so you can’t simply visit a service center to renew your license. First, check whether you can renew your driver’s license online. This is the easiest method. You can pay the $50 fee online and will receive your new license in the mail. If online renewal is not an option, schedule an appointment at your nearest service center.
Expired Licenses
If your license is expired, don’t worry. You can still renew it within 2 years of the expiration date. After the two year mark, you must re-take the learner’s permit exam and driving road test. So, don’t wait too long to renew!
Information Needed for Drivers License Renewal
As usual, you will need to complete the renewal form and provide acceptable forms of identification in order to renew your license. This also depends on whether you’re requesting a standard ID or REAL ID. For more information on this, visit the MA RMV Website.
Summary of Massachusetts Drivers License Renewal Amid COVID
In summary, don’t delay renewal of your drivers license because of COVID. It may require just a simple form completed online. If you do need an in-person appointment, you can schedule it online. RMV service centers are by appointment only, which allows for fewer people and extra precautions for COVID prevention. The most important thing to remember is that you will get in trouble for driving with an expired license. Additionally, waiting too long (beyond 2 years) will require retesting, which will be even more inconvenient.
REAL ID Required for Flights Beginning October 2021
