What to bring to the Massachusetts RMV permit test

For the learner's permit and knowledge test

• Completed application (start online) and an appointment at an RMV Service Center or AAA (members)
• Identification: REAL ID needs 1 lawful presence document, 2 Massachusetts residency documents and proof of SSN. A Standard license needs 1-2 identity and date-of-birth documents, 1 residency document and the SSN requirement
• Originals only (no photocopies or laminated documents)
• Parent or guardian signature on the application if under 18
• $30 exam fee

Fees

• Learner's permit exam fee: $30
• Road test fee: $35
• Class D license (issue/renew, 5 years): $50

The vision test

At least 20/40 in the better eye (corrected) and at least 120 degrees horizontal peripheral vision (both eyes) for a full license; 20/50 to 20/70 in the better eye may qualify for a daylight-only license. Screening covers acuity, color and peripheral vision; a Vision Screening Certificate from an eye doctor may be accepted instead.

Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them to see clearly.

For the road test

• Completed road test application (parental consent section if under 18)
• Printed learner's permit
• Qualified sponsor: 21+, at least one year of driving experience, valid U.S. license (sponsor brings license)
• Properly equipped, registered and inspected vehicle with registration certificate; accessible parking brake; rear seat for sponsor; no donut spare
• Out-of-state registered vehicle: proof of insurance at Massachusetts minimums ($25,000/$50,000 bodily injury, $30,000 property damage); rental: rental agreement and company authorization letter

What happens on the road test

After you pass: your permit

• Hold it for at least 6 consecutive months (under 18) with a clean record before the road test before the road test.
• Log 40 hours of supervised driving.
• Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 with at least one year of driving experience, sitting in the seat beside you
• Under 18: no driving 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed parent or legal guardian with at least one year of experience
• Under 18: no use of any mobile electronic device while driving except to report an emergency
• Carry the permit whenever you drive; permit valid up to 2 years
• Under 18: RMV-approved driver education (30 hours classroom, 12 hours behind the wheel, 6 hours observation) plus 40 supervised hours (30 with a driver skills development program); parent attends 2-hour session

Before you go

Take a practice test or two the day before, and the exam simulator to check you can pass in the real format. Bring originals, not photocopies, unless the RMV says copies are accepted.