Renewing a Drivers License at the Massachusetts RMV?

If you are renewing your drivers license at the Massachusetts RMV, here a few tips.

1. You need to fill out an application first.

In the office I went to there were no forms available beforehand, or instructions to fill out a form first, so after you waited 20-30 minutes to see someone, and walked up to the counter without a form, you were told to fill out a form and come back. It would be nice if there were instructions both on the website and in the RMV office mentioning this.

2. You can download the form at home and fill it out

The registry needs to put a link to the license renewal form at the top of the License & ID info page.

Here's the direct link: License and ID Update Application [ PDF ]



3. Take a Number

The RMV is like a deli counter at a supermarket. You need to take a number. Walk in. Find the machine. Take a number.



4. The signature you sign on the input pad at the registry is the signature that goes on your license.

I probably should have known this, but it would be nice to be told ahead of time since that's the signature that people might check your handwriting against and if you knew that, you might write a little slower and clearer instead of slashing a coupke of vague lines.

The website has could be clearer on payment methods accepted:

RMV - Roslindale Branch Office:

"Payment Methods

Cash, Check, Money Order
Master Card, Visa and Discover accepted only for license transactions"

When I read that, I understood it to mean, Cash, Check, Money Order accepted. Didn't read line #2.

I suggest making this clearer.

Maybe:

"Payment Methods

Cash, Check, Money Order. Master Card, Visa and Discover accepted only for license transactions"