Massachusetts: Licensing basics — Part 1 Practice Test
Massachusetts license classes, the learner’s permit and its exam, the Junior Operator License (JOL) and its passenger and night limits, supervised driving and driver education, the road test, identification and REAL ID, and converting a license from another state. — Part 1
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Questions are original and based on the official manual "Massachusetts Driver's Manual" (Revised April 2026), Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.
All 37 questions in this practice test
Take the test above first, then use this list to study. Tap “Show answer” to see the correct answer and explanation.
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A valid driver's license is required to operate a motor vehicle on which roads in Massachusetts?
- Any public road, highway, or way open to the public
- Only interstate highways and numbered state roads
- Only roads where a posted speed limit applies
- Only roads outside of cities and towns
Show answer
Correct answer: Any public road, highway, or way open to the public
The manual says you must have a valid driver's license to operate a motor vehicle on any public road, highway, or other way permitting access to the public.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 1 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 1)
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How many license classes does Massachusetts issue through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)?
- Three
- Four
- Five
- Six
Show answer
Correct answer: Five
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues five license classes through the RMV.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 1 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 1)
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Which license classes are known as commercial driver's licenses (CDLs)?
- Class B, C, and D
- Class A, B, and C
- Class C, D, and M
- Class A, B, and M
Show answer
Correct answer: Class A, B, and C
Class A, B, and C licenses are the commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) that allow you to operate large vehicles like trucks and buses.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 1 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 1)
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Which license class is the most common and is for passenger vehicles, vans, and small trucks?
- Class A
- Class C
- Class M
- Class D
Show answer
Correct answer: Class D
The Class D license is the most common one and is for passenger vehicles, vans, and small trucks.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 1 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 1)
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Which license class allows you to operate motorcycles?
- Class A
- Class B
- Class D
- Class M
Show answer
Correct answer: Class M
The Class M license allows you to operate motorcycles.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 1 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 1)
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A U.S. resident who lives outside Massachusetts may drive in Massachusetts on a valid license from their home state or territory if they are at least what age?
- 15
- 16
- 17
- 18
Show answer
Correct answer: 16
A U.S. resident who is at least 16 and lives outside Massachusetts may drive here using a valid out-of-state driver's license.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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Which of these drivers may use a valid out-of-state driver's license in Massachusetts?
- A new Massachusetts resident during the first 30 days
- A Massachusetts resident who also holds a license from another state
- A resident of a nearby state who commutes to work in Massachusetts
- A Massachusetts resident whose own license has expired
Show answer
Correct answer: A resident of a nearby state who commutes to work in Massachusetts
The out-of-state license rule applies to licensed visitors and travelers from other U.S. states and territories and to residents of nearby states who commute to work in Massachusetts.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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What is needed if a foreign driver's license is not printed in English?
- A translation into English
- A letter from the issuing country's embassy
- A Massachusetts learner's permit
- A second license from another U.S. state
Show answer
Correct answer: A translation into English
If the foreign license is not printed in English or lacks English translations of the important fields, a translation into English will be needed.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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What must a visitor's driver's license from another country be in order to drive in Massachusetts?
- Valid, meaning not suspended or revoked
- Exchanged for a Massachusetts license within 30 days
- Stamped by the RMV when the visitor arrives
- Issued by a country that prints licenses in English
Show answer
Correct answer: Valid, meaning not suspended or revoked
A visitor may drive private passenger vehicles with a valid (not suspended or revoked) license issued by their home country for the same type of vehicle.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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When driving in Massachusetts on a valid out-of-state or out-of-country license, where must you keep the license?
- At home, with a copy in the vehicle
- In your possession while you drive
- On file at the nearest RMV Service Center
- With the vehicle's insurance paperwork
Show answer
Correct answer: In your possession while you drive
Whether you have a U.S. or foreign license, you must have it in your possession when driving in Massachusetts.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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Violating Chapter 90, Section 10 (the law on driving with an out-of-country license) is a criminal violation. What is the fine for a first offense?
- $100
- $250
- $1,000
- $500
Show answer
Correct answer: $500
A violation of Section 10 is a criminal violation, and a first offense is subject to a fine of $500.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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How long a grace period do you have to obtain a Massachusetts driver's license after you become a Massachusetts resident?
- A grace period of 30 days after you become a resident
- A grace period of 60 days after you become a resident
- A grace period of 90 days after you become a resident
- None; there is no grace period after you become a resident
Show answer
Correct answer: None; there is no grace period after you become a resident
A new resident must obtain a Massachusetts driver's license to retain driving privileges, and the manual says there is no grace period.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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A person in active military service is a permanent resident of Massachusetts. Which license must they have to drive here?
- A valid license from any other U.S. state
- A valid Massachusetts license
- A valid license from the state where they are stationed
- Either a Massachusetts or an out-of-state license
Show answer
Correct answer: A valid Massachusetts license
If you are a permanent resident of the Commonwealth, you must have a valid Massachusetts license, even in active military service.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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A service member returning from active duty outside the United States has a license issued by an Armed Forces branch based in another country. For how long may they drive with it in Massachusetts?
- Up to 15 days
- Up to 30 days
- Up to 45 days
- Up to 90 days
Show answer
Correct answer: Up to 45 days
A service member returning from active duty abroad with a license issued by an Armed Forces branch based in another country may drive with it in Massachusetts for up to 45 days.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 2 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 2)
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A Massachusetts license expired while its holder was in active military service. For how long after an honorable discharge may the holder use that license to drive?
- Up to 60 days
- Up to 30 days
- Up to 90 days
- Up to six months
Show answer
Correct answer: Up to 60 days
The holder may use the expired license to operate a motor vehicle for up to 60 days after honorable discharge from military service.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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What must you carry with you when driving on a Massachusetts license that expired during active military service?
- The expired license and proof of your discharge
- The expired license and your military orders
- The expired license and a letter from your commander
- The expired license and a vision screening certificate
Show answer
Correct answer: The expired license and proof of your discharge
If you drive on a Massachusetts license that expired during active service, you must carry the expired license and proof of your discharge.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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Who may apply to begin the process of getting a Class D or Class M license?
- A resident of any U.S. state who is at least 16 and holds a license
- A Massachusetts resident who is at least 15 1/2 with a permit
- A Massachusetts resident, at least 16, whose license has not been revoked
- A tourist at least 18 who is temporarily in Massachusetts
Show answer
Correct answer: A Massachusetts resident, at least 16, whose license has not been revoked
The manual says anyone who is a Massachusetts resident, is at least 16, and has not had a license or the right to operate revoked may apply.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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To whom can a Massachusetts driver's license or ID card (except a Liquor ID card) be issued by law?
- Any non-resident who owns property in Massachusetts
- Only a resident of Massachusetts
- Any tourist who stays in Massachusetts temporarily
- Any business person who needs one for convenience
Show answer
Correct answer: Only a resident of Massachusetts
By law, a Massachusetts license or ID card can only be issued to a resident of Massachusetts, not for the convenience of business persons, tourists or non-resident property owners.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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A person under 16 holds a license or learner's permit from another state or country that allows them to drive. May they drive in Massachusetts?
- Yes, if the other license is still valid and unexpired
- Yes, but only when driving with a licensed adult
- Yes, but only during daylight hours on local roads
- No, no one under 16 may drive in Massachusetts
Show answer
Correct answer: No, no one under 16 may drive in Massachusetts
No person under 16 may drive in Massachusetts, even with a license or permit from a place that allows it.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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What is the minimum age to apply for a Class D (passenger vehicle) learner's permit?
- 15
- 16 1/2
- 18
- 16
Show answer
Correct answer: 16
To apply for a Class D or Class M learner's permit, you must be at least 16.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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What is the minimum age to receive a Class D or Class M driver's license?
- 16
- 16 1/2
- 17
- 18
Show answer
Correct answer: 16 1/2
You may not receive a Class D or Class M driver's license until you are at least 16 1/2, among other requirements.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 3 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 3)
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What is the minimum age to apply for a Commercial Driver's License (Class A, B, or C)?
- 16
- 16 1/2
- 18
- 21
Show answer
Correct answer: 18
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Commercial Driver's License.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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How is written consent given for a minor's learner's permit or identification card application?
- By signing the back of the application
- By signing a notarized letter sent to the RMV
- By signing the back of the driver education certificate
- By signing at the RMV Contact Center
Show answer
Correct answer: By signing the back of the application
For a learner's permit or identification card, written consent is given by signing the back of the permit, license, or ID application.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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A minor's application is signed by someone who is not a parent. For a license, when must documentation of that person's guardian status be shown?
- At the time of the road test
- When the license is renewed
- At the time of the vision screening
- When the license is mailed
Show answer
Correct answer: At the time of the road test
For a license, documentation of guardian status must be shown at the time of the road test.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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What may result from forging a signature on an application for a permit, license, or ID card?
- A warning letter only
- A required vision re-test
- License suspension or revocation
- Loss of the right to appeal
Show answer
Correct answer: License suspension or revocation
Forging a signature may result in license suspension or revocation.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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Why does the RMV capture an image of every applicant for a permit, license, or ID card?
- To confirm the applicant has already completed driver education
- To confirm the image is that of the person who gave the identification
- To replace the vision screening with a photograph of the eyes
- To keep a record of the applicant's vehicle registrations
Show answer
Correct answer: To confirm the image is that of the person who gave the identification
The image makes sure the picture on the document and in the RMV database is the actual person who provided the identification information.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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What kind of view of the applicant must the image captured by the RMV be?
- A side-profile view
- A slightly turned three-quarter view
- A view with the head tilted to one side
- A straightforward looking view
Show answer
Correct answer: A straightforward looking view
The captured image must be a straightforward looking view of the applicant with all facial features visible.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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You normally wear prescription eyeglasses. What is the rule for the photo the RMV captures for your license?
- You may keep them on, because you normally wear them
- You may keep them on, if the lenses are clear and thin
- You may keep them on, if they are reading glasses only
- They are not allowed, even if you normally wear them
Show answer
Correct answer: They are not allowed, even if you normally wear them
Eyeglasses, including reading or prescription glasses, are not allowed in the photo, even if the applicant normally wears them.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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When may a hat or other head cover be allowed in the photo the RMV captures?
- If it is a plain hat with no logo, writing, or bright colors
- For medical or religious reasons, if no facial feature is hidden
- If it is worn only to cover a hairstyle or hair color
- If it is removed whenever an RMV clerk asks
Show answer
Correct answer: For medical or religious reasons, if no facial feature is hidden
A hat or head cover is not acceptable, but if worn for medical or religious reasons it may be allowed if it does not hide any facial features.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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Which of these is acceptable in the photo the RMV captures?
- Temporary facial tattoos
- Bluetooth headsets
- Permanent facial tattoos
- A transparent facial cover
Show answer
Correct answer: Permanent facial tattoos
Permanent facial tattoos are acceptable, but temporary tattoos, Bluetooth headsets, and solid or transparent facial covers are not.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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When may natural facial hair and hairpieces be acceptable in the RMV photo?
- Unless they disguise your true appearance or obscure features
- Only if they are trimmed shorter than one inch
- Only if they match the hair color on your last license
- Only if the RMV clerk has approved them in advance
Show answer
Correct answer: Unless they disguise your true appearance or obscure features
Natural facial hair and hairpieces may be acceptable unless the overall effect disguises the person's true facial appearance or facial features are obscured.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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What are you screened for when you apply for a learner's permit or driver's license?
- Visual acuity, color vision, and peripheral vision
- Visual acuity, depth perception, and night vision
- Color vision, hearing, and night vision
- Reaction time, depth perception, and visual acuity
Show answer
Correct answer: Visual acuity, color vision, and peripheral vision
An RMV clerk screens you for visual acuity, color vision, and peripheral vision.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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If you normally wear contact lenses or corrective lenses to see at a distance, what must you do for the RMV vision screening?
- Take them off so your uncorrected vision is tested
- Leave them at home and bring a doctor's note
- Wear them during the screening
- Wear glasses but not contact lenses
Show answer
Correct answer: Wear them during the screening
If you normally wear contact lenses or corrective lenses to see at a distance, you must wear them during the vision screening examination.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 4 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 4)
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For a full Class D or Class M license, what minimum corrected visual acuity is required?
- 20/20
- 20/40
- 20/30
- 20/70
Show answer
Correct answer: 20/40
The manual sets 20/40 as the minimum corrected visual acuity for a full Class D or M license.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 5 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 5)
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What minimum horizontal peripheral vision (both eyes together) is required for a full Class D or Class M license?
- 90 degrees
- 100 degrees
- 140 degrees
- 120 degrees
Show answer
Correct answer: 120 degrees
For a full license you need at least 120 degrees of horizontal peripheral vision with both eyes together.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 5 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 5)
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If your corrected vision is between 20/50 and 20/70, which license may you be eligible for?
- A license limited to employment
- A license limited to Massachusetts roads
- A license for passenger vehicles only
- A daylight only license
Show answer
Correct answer: A daylight only license
With corrected vision between 20/50 and 20/70 you may be eligible for a daylight only license.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 5 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 5)
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If you fail the vision screening, who completes the Vision Screening Certificate (VSC) you may submit instead?
- Your family physician only
- Your ophthalmologist or optometrist
- An RMV driving instructor
- A certified driver education teacher
Show answer
Correct answer: Your ophthalmologist or optometrist
The RMV may accept an original VSC completed by your ophthalmologist or optometrist in place of the screening.
Source: Massachusetts Driver's Manual (Revised April 2026), page 5 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 5)