MA DMV Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield MA DMV facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When driving in a roundabout in Massachusetts, you must yield to: → Vehicles already circulating inside the roundabout
2. How can Massachusetts drivers transfer license plates from one vehicle to another? → By notifying the RMV and completing the transfer paperwork
3. Which of the following vehicles does NOT require registration in Massachusetts? → Golf carts used on private property only
4. When must you yield to pedestrians in Massachusetts? → At all crosswalks, marked or unmarked, when pedestrians are crossing
5. Which of the following types of license plates is available to Massachusetts drivers? → All of the above
6. What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign indicate? → A warning of a potential hazard ahead
7. What does a red octagonal sign always mean in Massachusetts? → Stop completely before proceeding
8. What does a green sign typically indicate on Massachusetts roadways? → Directional or distance information
9. What is the consequence of failing an emissions inspection in Massachusetts? → The vehicle must be repaired and retested
10. An ignition interlock device (IID) requires a driver to: → Blow into a breathalyzer — if alcohol is detected, the car will not start
11. How often are Massachusetts drivers required to have their vehicles undergo emissions inspections? → Every year
12. On a two-lane, two-way road, a _________ allows you to cross over into the opposing lane temporarily to pass a vehicle if it is safe to do so. → Broken Yellow Line
13. What is the name of Massachusetts' insurance penalty system that raises premiums for drivers with surchargeable violations? → Safe Driver Insurance Plan (SDIP)
14. When the road is marked with a solid yellow line and a broken yellow line, with the broken line next to your lane, you may pass: → If traffic is clear.
15. In Massachusetts, what is the proper way to enter a curve at excessive speed? → Brake before the curve, not during it, to maintain control through the turn
16. Under which circumstance is a driver allowed to legally exceed the posted speed limit in Massachusetts? → Under no circumstances — posted limits are absolute maximums
17. How long is a standard Massachusetts vehicle registration valid? → 2 years
18. Which of the following vehicles is exempt from emissions inspections in Massachusetts? → New vehicles less than 1 year old
19. What should you do when you approach a yield sign in Massachusetts? → Slow down and give the right-of-way to crossing traffic, stopping if necessary
20. Unlike many other states, Massachusetts does NOT use a point system for traffic violations. Instead, it uses: → A surcharge system that increases auto insurance premiums
21. At a four-way stop in Massachusetts, who goes first? → The vehicle that arrived first; if simultaneous, the vehicle on the right
22. How long do you have to register a newly purchased vehicle in Massachusetts? → 10 days
23. How long should you wait to drive after consuming alcohol? → Until your BAC falls below the legal limit — time is the only remedy
24. On a two-lane Massachusetts road with a 50 mph posted limit during dense fog, what speed should you drive? → A reduced speed that lets you stop within your sight distance
25. What is the maximum posted speed limit on most Massachusetts interstate highways, including the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90)? → 65 mph
26. When should you use hazard lights (four-way flashers) in Massachusetts? → When your vehicle is stopped or disabled and poses a hazard to other traffic
27. What is the proper technique for braking on a vehicle without ABS (anti-lock brakes) on a slippery surface? → Pump the brakes rapidly to prevent wheel lockup
28. What is the speed limit in a Massachusetts school zone when children are present? → 20 mph
29. What does a steady green arrow traffic signal mean? → You have a protected turn — proceed in the arrow's direction, yielding to pedestrians
30. On the highway, if you miss your exit, do not stop or back up. Instead, → Proceed to the next exit