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If you need to submit non-English documents to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), you may need a certified English translation that follows RMV-specific rules. Below is a practical summary of the RMV requirements, including the official certification template.
Good news:
Certling can provide certified translations for documents submitted to the Massachusetts RMV. The RMV accepts documents that are not in English if they are accompanied by a certified translation. Both the translation and certification must be printed on the letterhead of the certifying entity.
We translate into clear American English and include a certification designed to match RMV expectations. Final acceptance is always at the discretion of the RMV.
Print and bring this. It lists what must be on the translation certification and who can certify.
Massachusetts provides official guidance for driving on a foreign driver’s license. If your license is not in English, Massachusetts guidance indicates you should carry: a translation, an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the same country that issued your license, or an alternative translation document that meets the state’s criteria.
Read the official state page on driving in Massachusetts using a foreign license.
Massachusetts also provides a form titled “Translation into English of a Foreign License” for driving purposes.
Note: this form is not accepted for a permit or standard driver’s license application (see RMV note below).
Massachusetts has a dedicated RMV process for transferring a driver’s license from a foreign country. In many cases, you should expect to complete RMV requirements such as an eye exam and, depending on your situation, knowledge and/or road tests. An International Driving Permit cannot be converted to a Massachusetts permit or license.
Review eligibility, steps, and required documents on the official Massachusetts RMV page.
External link to Mass.gov.
The RMV will accept documents that are not in English if they are accompanied by a certified translation. Both the translation and the certification must be printed on the letterhead of the certifying entity.
The RMV guidance lists several types of certifying entities. Examples include:
Language Service Provider
A bilingual teacher at an accredited Massachusetts college, university, or private language school
A bilingual notary public
The local consulate for the document’s country of origin (not all consulates provide translation services)
American Translators Association (ATA)
Community-based organization
U.S. government agency (state or federal)
Massachusetts municipal agency
Non-profit organization
Printed on letterhead of the certifying entity (applies to both translation and certification)
Translator’s name (printed)
Date
Translator’s full address
Translator’s telephone number or email address
Translator’s signature
Statement of the translator’s qualifications
Statement affirming completeness and accuracy
Identification of the translated document and language (what the document is + from which language into English)
Massachusetts provides an official “Translation Certification Format” template. The template includes: a statement that the translation is true and complete, confirmation that the translator is fluent, the certifying entity type and translator position, and a legal warning about false statements (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 90, Section 24), plus fields for applicant name and translator contact details.
We provide certified translations in American English and include the certification details the RMV expects (including letterhead-ready formatting and required statements).
Massachusetts is strict. We recommend printing the RMV flyer and bringing it with your translation to your RMV appointment to prevent incorrect “extra requirements” being requested on the spot.
Getting a certified translation shouldn’t feel confusing, slow, or stressful.
We make certified translations simple with fair pricing, correct certification, and a smooth process from upload to delivery.
Upload your documents, see a fair per-word price instantly, and skip the parts you don’t need. You get official translations that work for visas, university admissions, jobs, or legal filings, delivered on time.
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Officially accepted in the UK, USA, Ireland, Canada, New Zealand and more.
Whatever your needs, we provide certified translations for a wide range of documents.
Can Certling provide certified translations for Massachusetts RMV documents?
Yes. Certling can provide certified translations for documents submitted to the Massachusetts RMV. The RMV accepts non-English documents when they are accompanied by a certified English translation, and the translation and certification must be on letterhead. Final acceptance remains at the discretion of the RMV.
What must be included on an RMV translation certification?
RMV guidance requires the translation and certification to be on the certifying entity’s letterhead and to include: the translator’s printed name, date, full address, phone or email, signature, a qualifications statement, a statement of completeness/accuracy, and identification of the document and language.
Can I drive in Massachusetts with a foreign driver’s license?
Massachusetts provides official guidance for driving on a foreign driver’s license. If your license is not in English, the state guidance indicates you should carry a translation, an IDP issued by the same country that issued your license, or an acceptable alternative translation document. Always carry your valid license as well.