Identification Cards

Who Needs ID

Anyone who doesn't hold a driver's license needs some sort of ID for official address and age, as well as for buying and drinking alcohol and any other limited-age activities.

This is why many states, including Massachusetts, have created ID cards issued by the state Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). These cards serve the same official ID function as a driver's license, without the driving privileges.

Two Types of Massachusetts Identification Cards

Massachusetts offers two different types of ID cards: the Massachusetts ID card and the Massachusetts liquor ID card.

Both are official photo ID cards issued by the RMV to Massachusetts residents who do not hold driver's licenses. They can be used to prove identity, residency, or age.

In Massachusetts, you must be 21 years old to drink alcohol and many places that serve it require either a Massachusetts driver's license or a Massachusetts liquor ID card in order to be served. The liquor ID card allows a Massachusetts resident who does not have a driver's license to be served alcohol.

The Massachusetts ID is not the same as an official liquor ID card, as it can be issued to anyone 16 or older. It simply serves as an official state-issued photo ID. If you're 21 or older and do not have a driver's license, you will want a liquor ID so you can purchase alcohol.

Requirements for a Massachusetts ID/Liquor ID Card

To obtain a Massachusetts liquor ID card, you need to meet the following requirements:

• You must be at least 21.

• You cannot hold a valid Massachusetts license.

• You must have a valid passport or a valid Social Security card.

To obtain a Masachusetts ID card:

• You must be at least 16.

• You must be a resident of Massachusetts.

• You cannot hold a driver's license from any state.

• You must have a valid passport or a valid Social Security card.

• Minors must have parental consent on the application.

How to Get a Massachusetts ID/Liquor ID Card

To obtain either card, you need to complete an application and bring it to an RMV office. The License/ID application is available at any branch office or online as a PDF file.

You'll need proper ID to get a state ID card. Besides the valid passport or Social Security card, you need to present one proof of date of birth and one proof of signature. The RMV has an online list of approved forms of ID. Study them closely and make sure you bring proper ID before heading off to the Registry office. You'll save a lot of time and aggravation.

Once your application is approved, the Registry folks will take your photo and issue you a new, official temporary Massachusetts ID card or Massachusetts liquor ID card. The actual card, with your photo on it, will be mailed to you within a few weeks. The temp works until then.

Massachusetts ID Card/Liquor ID Card Fees

• Massachusetts ID card: $15 (good for five years)

• Massachusetts Liquor ID Card: $25 (good for five years).

• Replacement for lost or stolen ID card: $15

Renewing Your ID Card

Massachusetts ID cards are valid for a period of five years, expiring on the cardholder's birthday in the fifth year after the card is issued. The renewal fee is $15 and all Massachusetts ID cards must be renewed in person at your local Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Replacing Your ID Card

If you lose your Massachusetts ID or liquor ID, you can order a replacement online and pay the $15 fee by credit card. If you cannot or don't want to use the Web, you'll need to visit a Massachusetts RMV office in person, with proper ID and a $15 fee.

Other Links of Interest

• How to replace a lost license

• Commercial driver's licenses

• Voter registration and organ donor info