We know that taking your Massachusetts driving test can be nerve-wracking. With a little preparation and insight into the test itself, there's nothing to be worried about. This guide will make sure you know the specific requirements in Massachusetts, what you can expect on the road test itself and give our best practice tips. Here's exactly what you need to know to pass your Massachusetts behind-the-wheel test.
What to know before your Massachusetts driving test
Prior to completing your test, you need to ensure that you have completed an adequate amount of practice so that you are comfortable and prepared behind the wheel. The vehicle that you take should be the same one you have been practicing in as different cars will operate a little differently. Whether you decide to practice with an experienced family driver, take driving lessons or book with our car and driver road test service, you need to be prepared to understand both the technical and practical sides of the test. This encompasses studying the right material and utilizing that knowledge on the driving test.
Once you believe that you are comfortable enough, you can schedule your road test. This is not an option, walk-ins are not possible. Save yourself the time and ensure that you have booked your road test in Massachusetts. Certain RMVs will have higher pass rates. Those are your best bet to ensure that you pass.
Prepare yourself for success...
The night before your driving test, you will want to ensure that you do your own pre-test inspection. The worst situation would be to bring your vehicle to the road test and not have it operating properly. Any cracks in the windshield will lead to an automatic reschedule. Ensure that the vehicle is in pristine shape and that your mirrors are adjusted to allow you to have maximum visibility. Any requirements and vehicle details that must be met in the state of Massachusetts should be looked over.
Your paperwork will need to be completed and accompanied with your permit, insurance, registration, and social security number details. Once all of that is ready, you should review the material. From road signs to hand signals to the features on your vehicle, it is a good thing to be prepared. On the day of your test, you can have a licensed driver accompany you to the test.
Once you've verified your road test, car paperwork, and car requirements, it’s time for more practice. In Massachusetts, you can practice anywhere except the neighborhood around the RMV where you'll be taking your driving test. We recommend practicing in parking lots and neighborhoods and have listed the maneuvers below that you can expect to be tested on.
What are the vehicle requirements for the Massachusetts driving test?
In Massachusetts, your vehicle is required to demonstrate the following vehicle and driver safety items within the pre-drive checklist. It is a good idea to check all of these prior to going to the testing center.
- Current registration, insurance, and inspection sticker
- Emergency hand brake at the center console
- A windshield with no cracks or debris that would obstruct the view
- Working doors: the driver and passenger doors must open from inside and outside
- Working lights: brake lights, front and back turn signal lights, headlights and taillights
- Key safety requirements: working speedometer, horn, rearview mirror, seatbelts, and windshield wipers
- No service or warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
In addition, valid vehicle registration and inspection stickers are mandatory. There needs to be proof of insurance equal to the minimum requirements of $20,000 - $40,000 for bodily injury and $5000 for property damage.
If you don’t have a car or yours doesn’t meet these requirements, you have a few options. You can get a car through a driving school, see if a friend or family member is available to accompany you and lend their car, or Skip offers a car and driver service for Massachusetts road tests, which you can reserve ahead of time online.
What to know the day of your Massachusetts driving test
Here's what to expect on your Massachusetts driving test. We recommend practicing these maneuvers:
- Parallel parking
- 3-point turn
- Backing up: You'll be asked to back up in a straight line for at least 25 yards
- Securing your vehicle on hills: Remember how to face your wheels when parking uphill and downhill
- Know your hand signals. Left, Right, Slow Down and Stop. The Massachusetts RMV examiner will ask these before you even get in the car, so make sure to review these.
- Remember the E-brake: You'll be asked to use your center console e-brake during the test, so make sure to un-brake afterwards. We've seen a lot of people forget to do this and get an immediate fail.
- Turning: Right and left turns will be on your test. Be sure to turn into the same lane you're turning from. Turning into the wrong lane is a top mistake people make on the Massachusetts driving test.
Lastly, remember to look in the direction you're driving. The examiner wants to see you use all of your mirrors and that you physically turn and look. People lose points for missing this all the time. Whether you're turning, backing up or going straight, always look in the direction you're driving.
More Massachusetts driving test tips
Join Moe as he explains what you need to know on the Massachusetts driving test, from beginning to end. He points out how you should be driving, what you should be looking for, and what you need to know to be a safe driver, maximizing your chances of passing the driving test in Massachusetts.
What happens after my Massachusetts road test?
Congratulations on completing your driving test! Regardless of the result, you should be proud for going through the test.
If you passed, you will be given a temporary license. It will serve as your license to drive until your actual laminated one comes in the mail.
When you are driving with an experienced driver or a professional, it feels a lot safer knowing that they are there to provide support and quick decision making, but once you are driving on your own, there are precautions you must take. Not all drivers will be able to read your mind, which is why you should always drive defensively. You are responsible for your passengers, so remind everyone in your vehicle to buckle up. Be a diligent driver and play your part in ensuring that the roads are safe for other drivers.
If you failed your RMV driving test, don't worry! Most people usually pass on their second try, and it gives you another opportunity to learn and try again. Call your instructor to find out where you went wrong. This will provide benchmarks to help you adapt and test again. In Massachusetts, you can retake the test in two weeks. Each time, make sure you have a licensed driver and car for your road test. In the meantime, keep practicing and reschedule your road test when you feel ready. 🙂
