Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Rolls Out the Welcome Mat for Work and Family Mobility Act

A significant shift in policy has taken effect in the state of Massachusetts, marking a significant milestone in inclusivity for all residents, regardless of immigration status. As of July 1, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) launched customer service operations under the new Work and Family Mobility Act (WFMA), enabling eligible Massachusetts residents to apply for a Standard (Class D or M) driver's license without the need to prove legal immigration status.

ACCORDING TO INTERNAL TRACKING, the RMV has already received more than 42,000 requests for learner’s permit appointments as of July 3. The launch was celebrated with events in Boston, Brockton, Lawrence, Worcester, Pittsfield, Revere, and Springfield, where welcoming centers and community outreach staff were present to assist new applicants.

A Major Step Towards Inclusivity

The WFMA's implementation marks a significant step in making Massachusetts roads safer, said Governor Maura Healey. The RMV has taken steps to ensure a smooth application process by providing multilingual resources and increasing staff numbers. All eligible residents are encouraged to apply online and begin the process of obtaining their driver's license.

This initiative aims to reduce barriers to transportation for many Massachusetts residents, such as immigrant parents who may have feared driving without a license or young adults needing safe transportation to work. WFMA co-chair Lenita Reason underscores, "Everyone deserves the right to safe transportation."

Making the Application Process Accessible

The RMV has shown commitment to serving all communities by developing a series of resources and supports for the diverse population expected to apply under the WFMA:

1. An informational website, Mass.Gov/WFMA, provides details on the WFMA, identification requirements, and steps to obtain a Standard Class D or Class M driver's license.

2. A special informational phoneline, 857-368-WFMA (9362), offers messaging in multiple languages.

3. Applicants can find a FAQ section and a public flyer to help prepare their applications.

4. Materials are translated into 15 languages, permits are available in 35 languages, and interpreters (phone and in-person) are available in over 100 languages.

5. Staffing has increased by 50 percent in both call centers and customer service centers, and many locations now offer extended hours, including Saturdays and some evenings.

6. The number of road test examiners has more than doubled, temporary road test sites have been added, and many locations now offer extended hours for road test operations.

Applying for a License: Tips and Advice

To support applicants, the RMV is providing advice in advance:

1. Appointments are required: Make two separate appointments for your learner’s permit exam and road test online at Mass.Gov/myRMV.

2. Prepare your documents: Gather a proof of identity, proof of date of birth, and documents proving Massachusetts residency. For the expanded list of acceptable documents, see Mass.Gov/WFMA.

3. Standard fees apply: The costs are $30 for a learner’s permit exam, $35 for a road test, and $50 for a Class D driver’s license. Pay online in advance at Mass.Gov/myRMV.

4. Study and practice driving: Learn the Massachusetts rules of the road to pass your learner’s permit exam and practice driving with a licensed driver before your road test. Driver’s Manuals are available at Mass.Gov/lists/drivers-manuals.

5. Bring an interpreter if possible: Customer service centers have translation services available by phone for appointments.

6. Bring a licensed driver and a vehicle to your road test: Applicants must bring a licensed driver to their road test to comply with the rules for driving under a Learner’s Permit.

7. Beware of fraudulent practices: Only the RMV is authorized to issue a driver’s license and collect fees. Make sure to pay fees only at Mass.Gov/myRMV or in person at an RMV location.

The new law and its successful implementation underscore the commitment of the Massachusetts government to ensure all its residents have access to safe and legal transportation options, regardless of their immigration status.