Massachusetts RMV Offers Walk-In REAL ID Service as Deadline Approaches| 04:51PM / Sunday, April 20, 2025 | |
BOSTON — With the federal REAL ID enforcement date of May 7 approaching, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is offering walk-in service for residents seeking to obtain a REAL ID credential at all RMV service center locations.
The RMV is reminding Massachusetts residents that beginning May 7, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or a valid passport, will be required for domestic air travel and entry into certain federal facilities.
While walk-ins are being accepted for REAL ID transactions for those with near-term travel plans, the RMV assures residents that REAL IDs can still be obtained after the May 7 deadline. If immediate service is not available for walk-in customers, service center staff will explore options for same-day or next-day appointments.
The RMV encourages individuals seeking a REAL ID to visit Mass.Gov/REALID to understand the necessary documentation for the required in-person appointment. Applicants should also be aware that it may take 10 to 14 business days to receive their RMV credential by mail following their appointment.
As of this month, over 3 million credentials in Massachusetts are REAL ID compliant.
Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie stated that the RMV is seeing an increasing number of residents applying for REAL ID credentials as the deadline nears. She emphasized that the RMV will continue to process REAL ID transactions beyond May 7 and that the agency is increasing capacity at service centers and accommodating walk-ins for individuals with imminent travel needs. Ogilvie also urged residents to familiarize themselves with the required documentation prior to applying.
The fees for obtaining or renewing a REAL ID-compliant credential are the same as those for equivalent non-compliant credentials. The renewal fee for a non-commercial standard or REAL ID driver’s license is $50, and the renewal fee for a Mass ID is $25. An amendment fee of $25 applies for upgrading to a REAL ID credential before the existing credential's expiration. Customers with a stay of less than five years in the U.S. will pay a pro-rated fee.
For individuals without immediate travel plans, appointments can be scheduled through the RMV’s Online Service Center at Mass.Gov/myRMV or, for AAA members, at https://northeast.aaa.com/automotive/registry-services/massachusetts.html.
The RMV has provided document checklists and other information regarding REAL ID requirements at Mass.Gov/REALID to assist customers in preparing for their in-person visits. Required documents include proof of lawful presence, two proofs of Massachusetts residency, and proof of a full Social Security Number (SSN). Customers with name changes will need to provide documentation such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court document. All required documents must be original or certified copies.
Massachusetts residents are eligible to renew their licenses or IDs up to one year before the expiration date. Those with existing compliant credentials and no legal name changes may be able to renew online. A REAL ID-compliant credential issued by the Massachusetts RMV is identified by a star surrounded by a yellow or gold circle in the top right corner.
The Massachusetts RMV has been issuing REAL IDs since March 2018. Additional information about REAL ID requirements and other RMV services is available at Mass.Gov/RMV. Information on acceptable identification at airport security checkpoints can be found at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.
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