Massachusetts REAL ID Checklist
REAL ID in Massachusetts
You’re NOT required to have a REAL ID in Massachusetts, however you’ll need one (or another federally accepted ID, such as a passport) in the future to:
- Travel by commercial flight.
- Enter certain restricted federal facilities.
- Enter nuclear power plants.
If your ID has a gold star in the upper-right corner, your ID is already compliant with the REAL ID Act.
Obtaining one for the first time requires a trip to your local Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) service center. However, you can start the process online to help you gather your documents.
MA REAL ID Checklist:
To obtain a REAL ID for the first time, you’ll have to visit your local RMV office and provide*:
- Proof of birthdate and lawful U.S. presence. This may include your:
- U.S. passport.
- U.S. birth certificate.
- Permanent resident card.
- Proof of social security number (SSN). This may include your:
- Social security card.
- 1099 or W-2 tax form.
- Paystub with your full name and SSN.
- Proof of MA residency (2 documents required). This may include a:
- Utility bill (dated within the last 60 days).
- Credit card statement (dated within the last 60 days).
- Property tax for the current year.
- Payment for the applicable fee.
*The RMV provides a complete list of accepted documents.
Massachusetts REAL ID Fees
There is NO additional cost associated with getting a REAL ID vs. a standard license or ID.
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license renewal: $50.
- Duplicate license: $25.
- REAL ID-compliant non-driver ID renewal: $25.