MA AG Warns Of Fraud As New Driver License Law Goes Into Effect

MASSACHUSETTS — One key point for everyone to keep in mind: in Massachusetts, it's called the RMV, not the DMV.

That's one fraud warning sign Attorney General Andrea Campbell is telegraphing to state residents who may seek a driver's license when the new Work and Family Mobility Act goes into effect on July 1.

Campbell and RMV Registrar Colleen Ogilvie said scammers may try to take advantage of undocumented residents seeking licenses for the first time under the law. An estimated 200,000 new licenses may be issued under the law, which has also prompted the RMV to go on a hiring spree.

"Registry customers needing credentials should never pay someone for an RMV appointment. And customers should make sure they are using the official Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles website to conduct their business transactions," Ogilvie said in a news release. "Everyone should avoid using any unofficial third-party websites that are offering RMV services to ensure that their personal and financial information is protected."

Other signs of fraud to watch out for: websites that lack the Commonwealth seal; websites that charge you to look at the status of your license or registration; and websites that charge to change your license or registration address.

Under the law, undocumented state residents will be able to get licensed under the same standards as everyone else, including taking road tests and paying fees and excise taxes. The new law expands the number of documents that can be used to get a driver's license, allowing residents to now use foreign passports and consular identification materials. Supporters say the law allows residents who are already driving here to do so legally and get insurance.

The state Legislatures passed the mobility act in 2022, and later overrode a veto of the law by then-governor Charlie Baker. A coalition led by the state Republican party challenged the law at the ballot in November, but it survived the challenge with about 54 percent electing to keep the law in place.