X
wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 21 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time.
There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been viewed 133,192 times.
Learn more...
Many kids dream of driving since the time they learned the word "car." In Massachusetts, you have to wait until you are sixteen until you can drive. Even then, to make your dream come true, you have to get a learner's permit first.
Things You Should Know
- To get a learner's permit in Massachusetts, you need to be 16 and an MA resident.
- Study the Driver's Manual and when you feel you've mastered the material, visit the RMV to take your test.
- Pay your test fee, take the learner's test, and wait to hear whether or not you passed.
Steps
-
1Figure out if you are eligible. In Massachusetts, you must be at least sixteen years old and a Massachusetts resident when you apply for a learner's permit.[1]
-
2Study the Driver's Manual.[2] A copy is available at most RMV branches for $5. You must pass a written test to earn your permit. It is based on the Driver's Manual, so make sure you study it. You can also view the official Driver's Manual online.[3]Advertisement
-
3Go to your local Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) branch. Try to arrive at least half an hour to 45 minutes before the Registry stops permit testing. Be patient and alert for your turn.[4]
-
4Fill out a learner's permit application. Be sure to check that you are applying for a learner's permit, and that you want either a class D or a class M permit.[5]
-
5Take your turn. Present the required documents for your application. Pay the $30 test fee, take a vision test, and have your picture taken.
-
6Pass the learner's permit test. Most of the time, the test is taken on a touchscreen kiosk. Basic rules of the road and driving skills are common questions. Answer 18 out of 25 questions correctly in order to pass.[6]
-
7Return to your window. If you passed the test, you will receive your permit here.
Advertisement
Community Q&A
-
QuestionDo I need to schedule an appointment to get a learner's permit?
Community AnswerNo, you can just tell the clerk you're in for a permit test, get your number, and wait to be called. -
QuestionWhat do I need to bring with me to take my permit test?
Community AnswerIf you are under 18, you need a birth certificate, social security number, parental consent form, and completed application. If you are over 18, you need a separate document to prove address, date of birth, social security number, signature, and completed application. -
QuestionHow long does it take to get the learner's permit once I pass the test? Do I get it immediately or later on?
Robert MurphyCommunity AnswerUpon finishing the test, go back to the window. If you passed (answered at least 18/25 questions (72%) correct), the teller will hand you your permit.
Advertisement
Warnings
- Not studying the Driver's Manual is not a good idea. If you fail, you will have to pay another $30 to take it again.⧼thumbs_response⧽
Advertisement
Things You'll Need
- Primary document proving date of birth (official birth certificate copy, passport, etc.)
-
Social Security card
- If you are over 18, you will also need a proof of signature and Massachusetts residency.
- If you are under 18, you will need a parent or legal guardian present.
- $30
- Driver's manual
References
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-passenger-class-d-learners-permit
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/lists/drivers-manuals
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/03/21/Drivers_Manual.pdf
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles/locations?_page=1
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-motorcycle-class-m-learners-permit
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-passenger-class-d-learners-permit
- ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/pay-your-road-test-andor-drivers-license-fees
- Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
About This Article
Advertisement
