The issue date on a Massachusetts driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) issues licenses valid for 5 years for most drivers. Here is where to find ISS and how to read every field on your Massachusetts license.

Where to find the issue date on a Massachusetts driver's license

On the current Massachusetts RMV license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when the RMV issued your current card. If you have renewed your license, the new card's ISS date reflects that renewal. Your license number stays the same through renewals; ISS resets with each new card.

Date fields on a Massachusetts driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed by the Massachusetts RMV.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate, used for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Massachusetts driver's licenses are valid for 5 years for most adult drivers.

What does DD mean on a Massachusetts driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for your specific card. It changes each time a new card is issued and differs from your license number. Banks, rental companies, and identity systems use the DD as a secondary check to verify card authenticity.

📱

Preparing for your DMV test?

Download our free iOS app — 1,164+ practice questions in 11 languages, flashcards, and offline study!

Restrictions on a Massachusetts driver's license

Massachusetts licenses display restrictions in the RSTR field. Common restriction codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required while driving
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only
• R — Mechanical aid required

Massachusetts REAL ID

Massachusetts offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Massachusetts license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel. To get a Massachusetts REAL ID, visit an RMV Service Center in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Massachusetts address.

How to renew a Massachusetts driver's license

Massachusetts RMV offers online renewal at mass.gov/rmv for eligible drivers. Online renewal is available if you do not need a new photo, your address has not changed, and your license is not expired. In-person renewal at an RMV Service Center is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions. Massachusetts also has self-service kiosks at select locations for routine transactions.

How to find your original Massachusetts licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was printed, not when you first became licensed in Massachusetts. To find your original licensing date, request a certified copy of your Massachusetts driving record through the RMV website or in person at an RMV Service Center.