Have you ever heard of the Liquor ID card or do you still use your passport as a document? In Massachusetts, the RMV offers 2 types of MA state identification cards: Massachusetts ID and Massachusetts Liquor ID. Both are similar to a driver’s license, but do not give permission to drive.

Both cards serve as official forms of identity and proof of signature, age and photo. However, the Massachusetts Liquor ID, in addition to being an official ID, allows you to buy and consume alcoholic beverages.

How do you obtain a Mass Liquor ID card?

What you need to apply for a Liquor ID card:

  1. You must be at least 21 years of age.
  2. You cannot have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license

All Liquor ID applicants (21 years of age or older) must submit the following documents:

  • 1 document that proves your social security number (SSN) or a notification of denial of the SSN (Denial Notice), passport, visa and I-94.
  • 1 document that proves your date of birth
  • This completed application
  • $25 payment fee

On the Massachusetts Gov website, you can access more information about acceptable documents for identification.

How to request your Liquor ID in person:

The bad news is that you can’t do the entire process online. However, there are a few things you can do to get started. Start booking through the website.

On the scheduled day, remember to take the completed application and gather all the required documents listed above, including the fee, and go to the Service Center defined above.

Most RMV service centers accept cash, check, money order, and credit or debit cards. As payment methods vary by location, please check what is accepted at the location you will be visiting.

Next Steps

You will receive a temporary Massachusetts Liquor ID, valid for 30 days, directly at the service center. Your permanent Liquor ID will be sent to your home within 5-7 days.

More Information

Your Massachusetts Liquor ID is valid for 5 years. When it expires, you will need to start the process from scratch as there is no renewal of this document.

If your Liquor ID is lost or stolen, notify the RMV and replace it as soon as possible, which can be done online. Just head over to this website and provide the following information:

  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Identification number or the last 4 digits of your social security number
  • Email address
  • Another $25 payment fee

IMPORTANT: All documents must be original. Photocopies will not be accepted. RMV regulations require visa holders to have proof of at least 12 months of total US legal presence to be eligible to apply for a Liquor ID. You must also have a minimum of 30 days remaining in the US to be eligible.