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How Out-of-State Violations Can Affect Your Massachusetts Driver’s License
Many Massachusetts drivers are surprised to learn that a traffic violation, DUI, or license suspension in another state can result in a suspension of their driving privileges in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is authorized to suspend your license based on offenses that occur outside of the state, even if you’re licensed only in Massachusetts.
If you’ve received notice from the RMV regarding an out-of-state violation, it’s important to understand how these suspensions work, what your legal rights are, and how to protect your ability to drive in Massachusetts.
Why Out-of-State Offenses Trigger RMV Suspensions
Massachusetts is part of the Driver License Compact (DLC)—an interstate agreement through which participating states share information about traffic offenses, DUI convictions, and license suspensions. When a Massachusetts resident commits a serious driving offense in another state, that offense is reported to the Massachusetts RMV.
The RMV may then suspend your Massachusetts license based on its own laws, regardless of how the case was handled in the other state. For example, a DUI conviction in another state may result in a license suspension under Massachusetts OUI laws, which can carry stricter penalties.
Common Out-of-State Violations That Lead to Suspension
The most common types of out-of-state offenses that trigger RMV action include:
- Operating Under the Influence (OUI/DUI)
- Drug-related driving offenses
- Refusal to submit to chemical testing
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Vehicular homicide or serious injury
- Accumulation of surchargeable events
- Operating with a suspended or revoked license
- Out-of-state license fraud or identity theft
Even if the other state imposed a lesser penalty or classified the charge as a non-criminal offense (such as a DWAI in New York), Massachusetts may treat it as a full criminal offense and suspend your license accordingly.
You May Still Be Suspended Even If You Don’t Hold a Massachusetts License
Massachusetts can also suspend your right to operate within the state, even if you are not a Massachusetts license holder. For example, if you’re licensed in New Hampshire and have a DUI there, the Massachusetts RMV can suspend your ability to drive in Massachusetts. This can happen even if New Hampshire allows you to continue driving.
These suspensions can be difficult to predict, and the RMV often relies on information from the National Driver Register (NDR) and other interstate reporting systems.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspension Notice
If you receive a suspension notice based on an out-of-state violation, don’t ignore it. A suspension in Massachusetts can lead to serious consequences, including increased insurance premiums, employment issues, and potential arrest if you continue driving without resolving the matter.
You may have legal options to challenge the suspension or pursue a hardship license depending on your circumstances. These cases often involve complex documentation and specific legal arguments about the nature of the out-of-state offense and how it is classified under Massachusetts law.
Can You Get a Hardship License?
In many cases, individuals facing suspension due to an out-of-state violation may be eligible for a hardship license. However, you must meet strict eligibility criteria, provide detailed documentation (including a valid work letter if driving is necessary for your job), and demonstrate that the suspension is causing genuine hardship.
Because these situations often involve complicated legal issues, it’s strongly recommended that you consult with an attorney who regularly handles RMV hearings and understands the nuances of out-of-state violations.
Protecting Your Driving Privileges
Out-of-state violations don’t stay in another state—they can follow you home and threaten your ability to legally drive in Massachusetts. Understanding the RMV’s authority, how your case is being treated, and what steps to take next is crucial.
If you’re facing a suspension related to an out-of-state offense, take action quickly to preserve your rights, avoid further penalties, and potentially restore your ability to drive, whether through a hardship license or a successful appeal.