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The Yankee Express

Chief's Corner Reminder that driver’s license expires on your birthday

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar 
Dudley Police Department
I recently had a discussion with a resident about driver’s license renewals.  The question involved the “on-line” or in person renewal process, particularly, as it pertains to drivers aged 75 and older.  I was asked to provide some further information.
It is important to note all licenses will expire on your birthday in a given year. They are valid for five years from the birthday in the year of issue. Renewing your license can be done at any registry office, a AAA office for members, and on-line when applicable. Currently, on-line renewals are allowed once every 10 years. If you can renew on-line, you should receive your license in the mail within 7-10 days. Anyone seeking the “Real ID” license, to use for travel etc., must appear in person and bring the correct documentation (proof of residency, etc.).  There is no initial on-line process for this. Due to the pandemic, the deadline to obtain your Real ID was extended until May of 2023.  If you are age 75 or older, you cannot renew “on-line.” This must be done in person. This is required primarily for vision and other screening. Good news for all driver is, whether you renew your license on the computer or in person, you can do this any time within one year of expiration. This enables people to take care of this at a time when it is convenient. The pandemic has impacted RMV operation hours in some ways, so it is important to check with the Registry to make the proper arrangements.    
Drivers age 75 and over can find more information on this process at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/older-drivers, by email at [email protected], or by calling 857-368-8005.  Special hours for seniors aged 65 and older are designated by the RMV on Wednesdays.  Check with them for more details.
Remember your license will expire on your birthday in a given year. It is important as that date approaches to check your license as well as other important documents (passports, etc.). You do not want to experience the unfortunate situation of not having a valid license at a critical time, say when an accident occurs. If you need a reminder to check the date for your license expiration, consider this it.  
Elder driver decisions
A person’s decision to give up their driver’s license, particularly for seniors, is a very difficult one. Family members, medical professionals, and police officers are often involved in these cases. This is one of the most difficult aspects of my job; filing a petition to take a person’s license away.  One possible option to consider is the voluntary surrender of a license.  Someone who plans to discuss this situation with a family member, was seeking information to assist them with the process.  There are several reasons why a voluntary license surrender is a good option, and many people may not be aware of this program.  
In addition to the obvious travel restrictions, the two greatest concerns that I hear when it comes to surrendering a license is (1) not having a valid government issued ID and (2), if personal circumstances change, being unable to regain their license once it is turned over. The positive is a person who gives up their license voluntarily, can reapply. They will be most likely asked to provide medical documentation stating they are competent to receive a license.  The Registry may also require a road test if the situation warrants.  Therefore, a voluntary surrender of your license is not permanent unless it is necessary.  Information can be found on the Registry web site at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-registry-of-motor-vehicles or any RMV branch.   
As far as the concern of having no formal identification, there is an answer for that as well. Since this is needed for medical care, banking, and other functions, it is important to maintain a valid ID. According to the Registry, anyone who voluntarily surrenders their driver’s license can receive a Massachusetts Identification card free of charge.  A person can complete what is called a Voluntary Surrender Affidavit form located at any Registry branch or online at https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/03/21/MAB110%20-%20Voluntary%20Surrender%20Affidavit.pdf. By completing this process, a person who voluntarily surrenders their license, is entitled to a free identification card.  This is a valid, state issued ID.  Two important reminders.  Many AAA branches handle a variety of Registry functions.  Unfortunately, they do not provide this service. It will need to be done at a Massachusetts RMV location. Also, with the COVID-19 restrictions, an appointment may be necessary. More information on this process can be found at the web sites listed above.  If you live in Connecticut, or other states, check with those departments for similar programs.
People who have difficulty driving face the tough decision of giving up their license.  This is not easy, as people sacrifice a great deal of freedom when this privilege is lost. Many people need to self-assess their ability to safely drive a motor vehicle. This is especially true as we age and if medical restrictions are present. No one wants to be a danger to themselves or others while traveling on the roads.  If a person has any apprehension about maintaining proper identification without a driver’s license, they have this valuable program to assist them in making the decision to surrender their license, just a bit easier. 
Cell phone servuce
Several questions continue to be asked about the shutdown of some cellular networks.  Several months ago, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reported some important information about your mobile phones and devices.  I provided information on this near the end of last year.  Changes in the technology will make some phones obsolete and they could even be incapable of dialing 911.  I wanted to remind everyone of the FCC information and encourage you to reach out to your provider to determine what, if anything, you many need to do in your situation.
 As mobile carriers seek to upgrade their networks to use the latest technologies, they periodically shut down older services, to free up infrastructure to support new services.  As a result, mobile carriers are shutting down their 3G networks, which rely on older technology, to make room for more advanced services, including 5G.  As a result of this shut down, many older cell phones, and other mobile devices, will be unable to make or receive calls and texts, including calls to 911, or use data services. This will affect 3G mobile phones and certain older 4G mobile phones that do not support Voice over LTE (VoLTE or HD Voice).  According to the FCC, the transition can impact many other industries and technologies, such as medical devices, home, and commercial, security systems, monitored fire alarms, personal emergency alert devices, and vehicle SOS systems, and other technologies.  
This process has begun as early as January 1 of this year, depending on your service provider.  It is recommended you consult with your mobile provider or their website for the most up-to-date information.  AT&T announced that it will finish shutting down its 3G network by this month (February).  Verizon will be complete by December 31.  T-Mobile / Sprint’s 3G may have already occurred.  Many carriers, such as Cricket, Boost, Straight Talk, and several Lifeline mobile service providers, utilize AT&T’s, Verizon’s, and T-Mobile’s networks, so it is important to check with your provider.
It is important to act now so that you don’t lose connectivity, including the ability to call 911.  Some carrier websites provide lists of devices that will no longer be supported after 3G networks are shut down.  You may need to upgrade to a newer device, or possibly install a software update to enable VoLTE (HD Voice) or other advanced services, to ensure that you can stay connected.  Some carriers may be offering discounted or free upgrades to help consumers.  Visit the FCC website https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/plan-ahead-phase-out-3g-cellular-networks-and-service for more information about the 3G phase out, suggested next steps for consumers, and resources to help stay connected.
The increase in COVID cases remains a concern.  For those still seeking vaccination information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling 508-949-8036.  We encourage everyone to be safe.  Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.  During these challenging times, we, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community.  
Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at [email protected].  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.