Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department I recently had a discussion with a resident about driver’s license renewals. The question involved the “on-line” or in person renewal process, particularly, as it pertains to drivers aged 75 and older. I was asked to provide some further information. It is important to note all licenses will expire on your birthday in a given year. They are valid for five years from the birthday in the year of issue. Renewing your license can be done at any Registry Office, a AAA Office for members, and on-line when applicable. Currently, on-line renewals are allowed once every 10 years. If you can renew on-line, you should receive your license in the mail within 7-10 days. Anyone seeking the “Real ID” license, to use for travel etc., must appear in person and bring the correct documentation (proof of residency, etc.). There is no initial on-line process for this. Due to the pandemic, the deadline to obtain your Real ID was extended until May of 2023. If you are age 75 or older, you cannot renew “on-line.” This must be done in person. This is required primarily for vision and other screening. Good news for all driver is, whether you renew your license on the computer or in person, you can do this any time within one year of expiration. This enables people to take care of this at a time when it is convenient. The pandemic has impacted RMV operation hours in some ways, so it is important to check with the Registry to make the proper arrangements. Drivers age 75 and over can find more information on this process at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/older-drivers , by email at MassDOTRMVSeniors@dot.state.ma.us , or by calling 857-368-8005. Special hours for seniors aged 65 and older are designated by the RMV on Wednesday’s. Check with them for more details. Remember your license will expire on your birthday in a given year. |
It is important as that date approaches to check your license as well as other important documents (passports, etc.). You do not want to experience the unfortunate situation of not having a valid license at a critical time, say when an accident occurs. If you need a reminder to check the date for your license expiration, consider this it.
The increase in COVID cases remains a concern. For those still seeking vaccination information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling 508-949-8036. We encourage everyone to be safe. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. During these challenging times, we, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community. Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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