The Massachusetts
driver handbook.
Use the handbook as your source of truth. This page helps you find it, understand what to look for, and turn reading into focused practice.
Open the official handbookYour reading path.
- 01Road signs & signals
Recognize the message before you reach the sign.
- 02Right of way
Work through intersections, turns, and shared spaces.
- 03Safe driving
Build space, awareness, and good decisions.
- 04Parking & stopping
Know where and how to leave your vehicle safely.
- 05Rules of the road
Understand lane choices, passing, and road markings.
Before your appointment.
A Massachusetts Class D learner-permit applicant must be at least 16 and meet the residency and credential conditions on the application page.
The permit exam has 25 questions and requires 18 correct answers; topics include road rules, impaired driving consequences, Junior Operator Law, pedestrians, bicyclists, and visually impaired people.
Use the manual’s sharing-the-road sections to practice anticipating pedestrians, bicyclists, and visually impaired road users rather than memorizing isolated answers.
Permit eligibility, documents, fees, and appointment details can change. Confirm those details with Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles before you go.