Replacing a Lost License

Losing your license―or even worse, having it stolen―can be a real pain in the neck. Or maybe it's more accurately a pain in the feet, since you're sure to be walking a lot more until you get a replacement. In Massachusetts, it's relatively easy to get a replacement license, especially online.

Replacing your Massachusetts Driver's License Online

It's a lot easier to replace your Massachusetts driver's license online than to renew it. Whereas there are all kinds of restrictions on online renewals, online replacements are relatively simple and uncomplicated, with few restrictions. Here's how it works:

• Go to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles online license replacement page.

• Type in your Social Security number and your license and birthdate exactly as they appear on the missing license. Don't worry about giving out your Social Security number; it's only used to ID you. You will receive a different license number with the replacement.

• Use your MasterCard, Visa or Discover Card to pay a $20 replacement fee.

Your new replacement license will be mailed to the address on file with the RMV.

The only restriction here is that you must have a digital photo license to use this service. If you do not have one, you can use the RMV phone center. If you do not have a credit card to pay by phone, you can make an in-person visit to a nearby RMV office.

Replacing Your License While Out of State

If you're out of state and lose your license, the RMV can mail you a replacement license to your current location. However, it will take at least 7-10 business days for you to receive the license. If you will be at your location that long, you may call (617) 351-4500 and request a duplicate license be sent to you for the $20 fee.

If you won't be at your location that long, you'll need to call a RMV phone center or go online to replace your license. However, in both cases, your license will be mailed to your home address.

Of course, you can also receive a replacement when you return home at a RMV office.

Replacing Your Massachusetts ID/Liquor ID Online

State ID Cards

Replacing your Massachusetts ID online is similar to replacing a lost or stolen driver's license. You can use an online form, as long as you have a new-style digital photo ID card. This form is similar to the license replacement form and asks for your Social Security number―as a user ID only― along with your name and birthdate. You will need to pay a $15 fee using MasterCard, Visa or Discover.

You can also use the RMV phone center and pay by credit card, or visit a nearby RMV office to replace your lost or stolen Massachusetts ID.

Liquor ID Cards

You cannot replace a Massachusetts Liquor ID online. You need to visit a nearby RMV office and sign a document certifying that the Liquor ID was lost (and you'd better hope no minor gets caught trying to use your "lost" ID to be served illegally). It will cost you $15 for a replacement.

Other Ways to Replace Your Massachusetts Driver's License or ID/Liquor ID

If you can't―or won't―use the Internet to replace your Massachusetts driver's license or ID/Liquor ID, you need to visit a nearby RMV office to obtain a new one. The replacement fee will be $15.

Finally, remember to bring acceptable forms of ID. Nothing is worse than making a trip to the Registry of Motor Vehicles, waiting in line for your turn, and then realizing you don't have the two forms of ID required.