When applying for a Massachusetts driver permit with Registry of Motor Vehicles, it is important to know the permit requirements. Make sure you have the met the RMV requirements and that you have the necessary documents ready.
Obtaining a driver's permit in Massachusetts is a process that may begin when a future driver reaches the age of 16. The state requires parental permission for applicants under the age of 18 and also requires several documents brought to the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Before heading to the RMV, applicants can print and fill out the permit application. http://www.massrmv.com/rmv/forms/21042.pdf New drivers under the age of 18 should obtain the following documents in their original form since copies are not accepted:
- Birth certificate that displays the date of birth
- Signature of a parent or guardian on the application
- Social security card
The state of Massachusetts requires a fee of $30 be paid before the written test may be taken, and the permit is valid for 2 years. Drivers who lose their permit will need to pay another $15 to get another one issued. Drivers who allow their permit to expire will need to pay an additional $30 as well as supply the necessary application documents.
Taking the Massachusetts Written Test
The written test in Massachusetts is computer based and includes 25 questions. A passing grade requires getting at least 18 questions correct. The written test is given on a walk-in basis during standard operating hours at the RMV. For students who fail the test and must come another day to the RMV to try the test again, all original documentation must be brought a second time in order to schedule another test.
Restrictions for Massachusetts Permit Drivers
Permit drivers should take note of the restrictions placed upon new drivers. Permit holders cannot drive a vehicle unless there is a "licensed operator" in the vehicle, who has been driving for at least a year, is at least 21-years-old, and is licensed to operate the specific type of vehicle. Additionally, licensed drivers under the age of 18 cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless there is a parent or licensed operator in the car.
Permit holders in Massachusetts must log 40 hours of supervised driving practice with your parent. The supervising driver must first take a 2-hour course to help facilitate their teen’s driver training.
Massachusetts Gradated Licensing
To help young drivers learn safe driving behavior, the state employs a graduated licensing program for drivers under the age of 18. After holding a permit for at least six months, completing and approved driver education course and passing the road test the driver will be issued a Junior Operator License. With this license drivers may drive independently except between 12:30 AM and 5:00 AM. Upon reaching the age of 18, a driver becomes eligible for a standard, adult license, which is known as a "Class D License".
