As of this Monday, a new law will begin to be applied that allows undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in Massachusetts.
The institution in charge is the Registro de Vehículos Motorizados (RMV) and explains that it is ready for new applicants, even with its long history of staffing problems and lines, because the law was passed seven months ago.
“This is an important moment, an incredible moment, a historic moment for many people in our communities,” Isabel Lopez, executive director of the Brockton Workers Alliance, told WBZ-TV.
“I think it will help everyone. In the past, people would have accidents, they would run and be very afraid and other people would take advantage of them too. Now with an ID, a driver’s license, you can’t be afraid, you can just be on the safest path, feel safer.”
The law was made possible by the Labor and Family Mobility Law which was approved in November 2022.
As a result of the new changes, Massachusetts driver manuals are now written in 15 languages and the RMV said it will have interpreters available. To carry out the process, applicants need proof of identification, birth and residence in Massachusetts.
The RMV anticipates 1,000 more customers per day at its locations only in the first six months and insisted it has been ramping up to meet the influx with extended hours and staff.
Extended Saturday hours begin next weekend. Some locations are already reserved until the end of July.
Requirements:
1. Immigrants will need to make two separate appointments online to take the learner’s permit exam and take a practical test. Here: Mass.Gov/myRMV.
2. From July 1 you can schedule some appointments, which will become effective as of July 3. People arriving at an RMV office will not be attended
3. Before the appointment, you must have identification (passport or consular document), as well as documents proving the residence in Massachusetts. If the document is in another language, it must be accompanied by the official English translation.
4. The costs they are $30 for the learner’s permit exam, $35 for the road test, and $50 for the Class D driver’s license fee. You can pay in advance at Mass.Gov/myRMV.