As drivers age, it’s important to stay informed about the rules and regulations surrounding license renewal in Massachusetts.
With senior drivers accounting for a significant portion of traffic fatalities in the state, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has specific rules in place for older drivers to ensure they are still fit to drive safely.
Here’s everything you need to know about the renewal process and requirements for senior drivers in Massachusetts.
When and Where Older Massachusetts Drivers Must Renew Licenses
In Massachusetts, all drivers must renew their licenses every five years. However, drivers who are 75 and older have different renewal requirements:
In-Person Renewal: Drivers aged 75 and older must renew their licenses in person. This can be done at an RMV service center or, if you’re a AAA member, at a AAA office.
Appointments: Drivers 75 and older must set up an appointment for in-person renewal. You can schedule this online using the RMV’s appointment tool or contact AAA for an appointment if you’re a member.
For Seniors 65 and Older or Those with Disabilities: You also have the option to schedule an appointment by calling the RMV at 857-368-8005 or emailing [email protected] for assistance.
To save time, it’s recommended that seniors fill out as much of the online renewal application as possible before visiting the RMV in person.
Vision Test Requirements
A vision test is required for all drivers renewing in person. For seniors 75 and older, this vision test is a mandatory part of the renewal process:
On-Site Vision Test: RMV centers or AAA offices will conduct the vision screening for free during your in-person renewal.
External Eye Exam: If you choose, you can have your vision test conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist no more than one year before your renewal. In this case, your eye doctor will need to complete a Class D and M Vision Screening Certificate.
When Seniors Must Take a Written Exam or Road Test
The Massachusetts RMV may require seniors to retake the written or road test if there are concerns about their ability to drive safely. This usually happens if there’s reason to believe that a senior driver’s medical condition or age-related health issues could impair their driving abilities.
Possible License Restrictions for Older Drivers
After a driving test or evaluation, the RMV may place certain restrictions on a senior’s driver’s license to ensure safe driving. Some common restrictions include:
Corrective Lenses: A common restriction is the requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses while driving. This restriction will be noted on the driver’s license after passing the vision test while wearing corrective lenses.
Other Restrictions: Other potential restrictions include driving only during the day (no night driving), driving with an automatic transmission or adaptive devices, or only driving vehicles equipped with specific outside mirrors.
Unsafe Driver Investigations in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a self-reporting law for medical conditions that could affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle. If a senior driver develops a medical condition that may impair their driving, they are required to report it to the RMV.
Unsafe Driver Reports: The RMV also accepts reports from family members, law enforcement, and medical professionals regarding concerns about a senior’s driving safety. These reports must be submitted in writing using the Request for Medical Evaluation Form and can be faxed or mailed to the RMV’s Medical Affairs office.
Elder Outreach Program in Massachusetts
To help seniors stay informed about safe driving, the RMV offers free, hour-long presentations about safe driving practices and how to apply for disability plates and placards.
These presentations are available for seniors, their family members, caregivers, and relevant organizations. For more information or to request a presentation in your community, call the RMV at 857-368-9457.
License Reinstatement
If your license has been suspended or revoked, the RMV’s Suspension Hearings Information Page provides guidance on how to get it reinstated. For more details, check with the RMV’s website.
Disability Parking Placards and License Plates
Massachusetts offers disability parking placards and license plates for drivers with impaired mobility, which are available for seniors who have a certified medical condition.
These include conditions such as severe arthritis, lung disease, or loss of limbs. Both permanent and temporary parking placards and plates are available, with renewal every five years.
To apply for a disability placard or plate, download the application from the RMV’s Disability Parking Information Page.
How to Stay Informed
The RMV website provides a wealth of information for seniors, including details on how to renew your driver’s license and vehicle registration.
The driver’s manual, available in English and several other languages, contains important safety tips and explanations of local rules. The RMV also maintains a dedicated page with resources for senior drivers.
