Quick Answer
Yes — Massachusetts allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under Work and Family Mobility Act (2022). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Massachusetts RMV office.
- Bring identity documents (foreign passport or Consular ID + 2 proofs of state residency dated within 60 days).
- Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
The license is valid for driving throughout the state but is not accepted as federal ID — not valid for domestic flights or federal buildings.
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.
What Documents Do I Need?
Bring 2 categories of document to your Massachusetts DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Massachusetts residency, which generally requires 2 documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
- 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.
How Do I Apply Step by Step?
- 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 Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Massachusetts driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Massachusetts, qualify for car insurance, use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes, and present it as proof of identity to open a bank account. It cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding a domestic flight.
- 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.
Does Massachusetts require an SSN or ITIN for a driver's license?
No. Massachusetts does not require a Social Security Number or ITIN under the Work and Family Mobility Act. You apply with a foreign passport or foreign government ID and two proofs of Massachusetts residency.
Does applying for a Massachusetts driver's license affect my immigration status?
No. The Massachusetts RMV does not share driver's license applicant information with federal immigration agencies for enforcement purposes. Applying is separate from your immigration status and does not notify USCIS.
Can I use a Massachusetts driver's license to board a domestic flight?
No. The Massachusetts standard driver's license for undocumented residents is not REAL ID compliant and cannot be used to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. For air travel you will need a valid passport or other TSA-accepted REAL ID document. The license is fully valid for driving in Massachusetts and throughout the U.S.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Massachusetts, 19 states and Washington D.C. currently issue driver's licenses or driving permits to undocumented immigrants without requiring an SSN. Each sets its own document rules, but all accept a foreign passport or consular ID in place of a Social Security Number. Browse the full list by state:
For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →