Massachusetts RMV Offers Walk-In REAL ID Service as Deadline Approaches

BOSTON — With the federal REAL ID enforcement date of May 7 approaching, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is offering walk-in service for residents seeking to obtain a REAL ID credential at all RMV service center locations.

The RMV is reminding Massachusetts residents that beginning May 7, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or a valid passport, will be required for domestic air travel and entry into certain federal facilities.

While walk-ins are being accepted for REAL ID transactions for those with near-term travel plans, the RMV assures residents that REAL IDs can still be obtained after the May 7 deadline. If immediate service is not available for walk-in customers, service center staff will explore options for same-day or next-day appointments.

The RMV encourages individuals seeking a REAL ID to visit Mass.Gov/REALID to understand the necessary documentation for the required in-person appointment. Applicants should also be aware that it may take 10 to 14 business days to receive their RMV credential by mail following their appointment.

As of this month, over 3 million credentials in Massachusetts are REAL ID compliant.

Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie stated that the RMV is seeing an increasing number of residents applying for REAL ID credentials as the deadline nears. She emphasized that the RMV will continue to process REAL ID transactions beyond May 7 and that the agency is increasing capacity at service centers and accommodating walk-ins for individuals with imminent travel needs. Ogilvie also urged residents to familiarize themselves with the required documentation prior to applying.

The fees for obtaining or renewing a REAL ID-compliant credential are the same as those for equivalent non-compliant credentials. The renewal fee for a non-commercial standard or REAL ID driver’s license is $50, and the renewal fee for a Mass ID is $25. An amendment fee of $25 applies for upgrading to a REAL ID credential before the existing credential's expiration. Customers with a stay of less than five years in the U.S. will pay a pro-rated fee.

For individuals without immediate travel plans, appointments can be scheduled through the RMV’s Online Service Center at Mass.Gov/myRMV or, for AAA members, at https://northeast.aaa.com/automotive/registry-services/massachusetts.html.

The RMV has provided document checklists and other information regarding REAL ID requirements at Mass.Gov/REALID to assist customers in preparing for their in-person visits. Required documents include proof of lawful presence, two proofs of Massachusetts residency, and proof of a full Social Security Number (SSN). Customers with name changes will need to provide documentation such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court document. All required documents must be original or certified copies.

Massachusetts residents are eligible to renew their licenses or IDs up to one year before the expiration date. Those with existing compliant credentials and no legal name changes may be able to renew online. A REAL ID-compliant credential issued by the Massachusetts RMV is identified by a star surrounded by a yellow or gold circle in the top right corner.

The Massachusetts RMV has been issuing REAL IDs since March 2018. Additional information about REAL ID requirements and other RMV services is available at Mass.Gov/RMV. Information on acceptable identification at airport security checkpoints can be found at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.

Dalton Board Signs Off on Land Sale Over Residents' Objections

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
05:50AM / Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Residents demanded the right to speak but the agenda did not include public comment. Amy Musante holds a sign saying the town now as '$20,000 less for a police station.'

DALTON, Mass. — The Select Board signed the sale on the last of what had been known as the Bardin property Monday even as a handful of residents demanded the right to speak against the action. 

 

The quitclaim deed transfers the nine acres to Thomas and Esther Balardini, who purchased the two other parcels in Dalton. They were the third-highest bidders at $31,500. Despite this, the board awarded them the land in an effort to keep the property intact.

 

"It's going to be an ongoing battle but one I think that has to be fought [because of] the disregard for the taxpayers," said Dicken Crane, the high bidder at $51,510.

 

"If it was personal I would let it go, but this affects everyone and backing down is not in my nature." 

 

Crane had appealed to the board to accept his bid during two previous meetings. He and others opposed to accepting the lower bid say it cost the town $20,000. After the meeting, Crane said he will be filing a lawsuit and has a citizen's petition for the next town meeting with over 100 signatures. 

 

Three members of the board — Chair Robert Bishop Jr., John Boyle, and Marc Strout — attended the 10-minute meeting. Members Anthony Pagliarulo and Daniel Esko previously expressed their disapproval of the sale to the Balardinis. 

 

Pagliarulo voted against the sale but did sign the purchase-and-sale agreement earlier this month. His reasoning was the explanation by the town attorney during an executive session that, unlike procurement, where the board is required to accept the lowest bid for services, it does have some discretion when it comes to accepting bids in this instance.