Mass. RMV Adds Online Scheduling Of Road Tests

Young wannabe drivers in Massachusetts can now schedule a driver's license road test online.

To make the leap previously from learner's permit to driver's license, 16 1/2 year-olds completed driver's ed classes and called a state hot line to schedule the road test. But that process generated thousands of calls and slowed other call-center business.

Now, young drivers can book the road test on the Registry of Motor Vehicles website. If they feel lucky, they can pay the $20 exam fee upfront and the $50 license cost, saving a visit to a Registry branch once they've completed the road test.

The license is sent by mail, using the driver's learner's permit photograph.

Transportation Secretary Jeffrey Mullan says the change is part of the governor's push to make the department services more efficient.