Driver's License in Massachusetts Without an SSN (2026)

Can You Get a Driver's License in Massachusetts Without an SSN?

Yes. Massachusetts allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under Work and Family Mobility Act (2022). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.

Massachusetts passed the Work and Family Mobility Act in 2022 — one of the more recent states. The law was passed by voter referendum with strong support. The Massachusetts RMV (Registry of Motor Vehicles) began processing these applications in July 2023.

⚠️ License type

Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.

Required Documents

Bring the following to your Massachusetts DMV appointment:

1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport or foreign government-issued ID
2Proof of Massachusetts residency — 2 documents: utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail

💡 Tip

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Gather your foreign identity document and 2 proofs of MA residency
Step 2: Schedule an appointment at a Massachusetts RMV office
Step 3: Complete the application form
Step 4: Pass the written knowledge test (available in multiple languages)
Step 5: Pass the vision exam
Step 6: Pass the road skills test
Step 7: License mailed to your address

What This License Allows

Once you have your Massachusetts driver's license or driving permit, you can:

Drive legally anywhere in Massachusetts
Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account

You cannot use this license to:

Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
Enter federal buildings or military bases
Prove immigration status or work authorization

💡 Next step: build credit

A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Massachusetts? +

Yes. Massachusetts passed the Work and Family Mobility Act in 2022 and began issuing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants in July 2023. You need a foreign passport or government ID and two proofs of Massachusetts residency. No SSN is required.

When did Massachusetts start issuing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants? +

The Work and Family Mobility Act was signed in 2022 and the Massachusetts RMV began accepting applications in July 2023.

Other States That Allow This

19 states and Washington D.C. currently allow undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license or driving permit. Browse by state:

CA CO CT DE HI IL MD MA MN NV NJ NM NY OR RI UT VT VA WA DC

For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →