How to Get a Learner's Permit in Massachusetts

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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

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  1. In Massachusetts, you must be at least sixteen years old and a Massachusetts resident when you apply for a learner's permit. [1]
  2. [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]
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  3. 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]
  4. 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]
  5. Present the required documents for your application. Pay the $30 test fee, take a vision test, and have your picture taken.
  6. 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]
  7. If you passed the test, you will receive your permit here.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Do I need to schedule an appointment to get a learner's permit?
    Community Answer
    No, you can just tell the clerk you're in for a permit test, get your number, and wait to be called.
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    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 24
  • Question
    What do I need to bring with me to take my permit test?
    Community Answer
    If 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 9 Helpful 27
  • Question
    How long does it take to get the learner's permit once I pass the test? Do I get it immediately or later on?
    Robert Murphy
    Community Answer
    Upon 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      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.
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      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

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-passenger-class-d-learners-permit
      2. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/lists/drivers-manuals
      3. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/03/21/Drivers_Manual.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles/locations?_page=1
      5. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-motorcycle-class-m-learners-permit
      6. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-passenger-class-d-learners-permit
      7. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/pay-your-road-test-andor-drivers-license-fees
      8. Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles

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