How to Get Your Driver's License in Massachusetts
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Massachusetts. Massachusetts uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.
GDL Stages in Massachusetts
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older with at least 1 year of experience
Junior Operator's License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Complete an approved driver education program
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m.
- No passengers under 18 unless accompanied by a licensed driver 21+
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Turn 18 with clean record or complete required intermediate period at 17 and a half
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or a religious activity.
- No passengers under 18 may ride unless an adult 21 or older is also in the vehicle. This applies for the entire Junior Operator period.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift at age 18 or, in some cases, at 17 and a half with a clean record.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are not classified as Junior Operators and are not subject to GDL restrictions.
Massachusetts-Specific Information
Massachusetts calls its intermediate phase the Junior Operator's License, or JOL. Violations of the passenger restriction can result in a 180-day license suspension on the first offense, one of the harshest penalties for a GDL violation in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Junior Operator's License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or a religious activity.
- No passengers under 18 may ride unless an adult 21 or older is also in the vehicle. This applies for the entire Junior Operator period.
Adults age 18 and older in Massachusetts can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are not classified as Junior Operators and are not subject to GDL restrictions.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Massachusetts learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) website for the most current information.