Q&A for How to Get a Learner's Permit in Massachusetts

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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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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.

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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.

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Question

What documents do I need for my driver's permit in Massachusetts?

Robert Murphy

Community Answer

You only need the learner’s permit application form. The test is on the Driver’s Manual - be sure to study beforehand!

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Question

Once I've obtained a permit, how long is it good for?

Community Answer

Two years.

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Question

Do you still need a learner's permit if you are over 18?

Community Answer

If you are over 18 and have never had a license, you are required to have a permit before you can get one.

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Question

Can I do all of these steps in one day?

Community Answer

Yes. It's best to gather your documents before going to the DMV. Study the manual beforehand, though.

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Question

Do I need an interlocking device to take the test?

Community Answer

No. If you haven’t driven yet you should be fine. You may if you had to retake the test due to bad driving, or other conditions.

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Question

Can I get a learner's permit if I can't read?

Community Answer

No, because you need to read the questions and manual to study.

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Question

Do you still have to pass the eye exam if you already had a permit?

Community Answer

Yes. Eyesight can change with your age and health, so even if a few years ago you were totally fine, you might find if you test your eyes, your eyesight has gotten worse.

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Question

Once I get a driver's permit, should I go to auto school to pass the driver test?

Community Answer

That is all a personal preference. Some auto schools offer the test, it costs more money, but the wait is a lot shorter. If you go to the RMV it is cheaper, but the wait is longer.

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Question

Is there anything required before getting a driver's license after holding onto the permit for 6 months?

Community Answer

Yes. If you are under 18, you must have taken and finished driver's ed, done 12 hours driving ang 6 observing with your driving school, and done 40 hours of supervised driving with your parents.

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Question

When can I retake the permit test if I fail?

Community Answer

Whenever you want! There is no wait time, although I recommend waiting and getting more comfortable with the material first.

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Question

Do I get a hard copy of my permit in the mail, or do I just carry the paper copy the whole time?

Community Answer

Sadly, you only get a paper version of the permit. This is what the state has done forever. I recommend getting a holder for your permit, or something as simple as a Ziploc bag to keep it in place.

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Question

Is the application the same if I have to retake my permit test?

Community Answer

You don’t have to redo the application if you have already tried the test once. Just bring in an old registration form from your previous test. They probably won’t even read it, but you should have it just in case.

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Question

Can I get my license without any driver's ed?

Robert Murphy

Community Answer

No. You are legally required to complete thirty (30) hours of a driver’s ed course.

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Question

Can I take the learner's permit test online?

Community Answer

No you need to go to your nearby RMV center to successfully complete the permit test.

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