Massachusetts Residents May Be Banned From These Buildings Soon

Anyone who has completed thier Massachusetts license renewal duties online will probably tell you that it's a much more enjoyable process versus having to renew it in person.

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Having the option to renew my Massachusetts license online is a much more pleasant experience than having to wait in line. I've had to do that a few times over the years in Pittsfield and it felt like I was watching paint dry. I don't miss the in-person experience.

Massachusetts Residents Have Less Than a Year to Obtain a REAL ID License

If you're a Massachusetts resident whether it's Springfield, Worcester, Boston, etc. one important thing you'll want to accomplish before next spring is making sure you have a REAL ID License. The cost for a REAL ID is $50 and there are some documents you need to get together to receive your REAL ID.

According to mass.gov, you'll need the following to obtain a REAL ID:

• Proof of Lawful Presence /Proof of Date of Birth
• Your current name must match the name on your lawful presence document(s) when applying for a REAL ID driver's license / ID card.
• Proof of Massachusetts Residency
• Proof of Social Security Number

You can view and download the Massachusetts Identification Documents Checklist here.

What Will Happen If I Don't Obtain a Massachusetts REAL ID By Next Year?

Suppose you don't have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025. In that case, you won't be able to fly within the U.S. and enter certain federal buildings (like Social Security administration buildings), army bases, and nuclear power plants.

What is a REAL ID and Why Am I Required to Have One in Massachusetts? 

A REAL ID is a Federal Security Standard for IDs that was created in 2005 as a result of increased federal security measures after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, for domestic air travel and to enter certain federal facilities.A Standard credential is a valid form of for driving or identification purposes but is not accepted for federal purposes. - mass.gov.

Don't let the REAL ID requirements scare you. It's a fairly easy process that can be done here. If you have additional questions, you can call the following numbers on weekdays from 9 am - 5 pm. For area codes 339/617/781/857 call: 857-368-8000. For all other Massachusetts area codes call: 800-858-3926.