What you need to know about Maine driver licenses
A Maine driver license is issued by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles and serves as your legal permission to drive in Maine and most other states. The license is valid for six years for drivers under 65, and four years for drivers 65 and older. You will need to renew it in person at a BMV office or an approved third-party agent when it expires — you cannot renew by mail or online.
Maine offers a standard driver license for regular driving, a commercial driver license (CDL) if you drive certain large vehicles for work, and an enhanced license that can be used for some federal purposes like entering military bases. Most people need the standard license. The process differs depending on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost or damaged card.
Key Takeaways
- You must appear in person at a Maine BMV office or approved agent to get or renew a driver license; online and mail renewal are not available.
- Bring a valid form of identification, proof of Maine residency, and your Social Security number or proof you do not have one.
- Standard licenses are valid for six years; you will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before expiration.
- The fee for a six-year license is $35; a four-year license for drivers 65 and older is $25.
- If your license is expired, you can still renew it at any BMV office, but driving with an expired license is illegal.
Documents you need to bring
Before you go to a BMV office, gather the documents listed below. Having everything ready will speed up your visit and prevent you from having to return a second time.
You need one form of valid identification. This can be a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or an out-of-state driver license. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents from a secondary list, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or school ID.
You also need proof of Maine residency. This means a document showing your current Maine address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or property tax bill. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.
Bring your Social Security number or a document proving you do not have one. If you have a number, you can straightforward state it; you do not need to bring a card. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming that.
Getting your first Maine driver license
If you have never held a Maine driver license, you will need to pass a written test and a driving test before the license is issued. The written test covers Maine traffic laws and road signs. You can study using the Maine Driver's Manual, which is available free on the BMV website and at BMV offices.
Schedule your written test appointment online through the Maine BMV website or by calling the BMV. You will take the test at a BMV office. Once you pass, you will receive a learner's permit that is valid for one year. With this permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver 21 or older is in the front seat with you.
After you have held the learner's permit for at least 30 days, you can schedule a road test. During the road test, an examiner will watch you drive and evaluate your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. If you pass, you will receive your driver license on the spot. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test.
Renewing an expiring or expired license
About 60 days before your license expires, Maine will mail you a renewal notice. This notice tells you the expiration date and reminds you to renew. You do not have to wait for this notice to renew; you can go to a BMV office anytime in the 60 days before expiration.
To renew, bring the documents listed above and your current license (or a copy if it is lost). You will not take another written or road test unless you are renewing after a suspension or revocation. The BMV will take a new photo and issue a new card. You can usually pick up your new license the same day, though some offices may mail it to you.
If your license has already expired, you can still renew it at any BMV office using the same process. However, driving with an expired license is illegal in Maine, even if you have already scheduled a renewal appointment. Renew as soon as possible.
Where to go and what it costs
The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles operates offices in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, and Portland. You can find the address, phone number, and hours for each office on the BMV website. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require appointments. Check the website or call ahead to see whether you need an appointment.
Maine also has approved third-party agents in many towns. These agents can issue licenses, handle renewals, and replace lost or damaged cards. They charge the same state fee as BMV offices, though some may add a small service fee. Search for agents near you on the BMV website.
A six-year standard driver license costs $35. A four-year license for drivers 65 and older costs $25. A commercial driver license has a different fee structure depending on the class and endorsements. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at most locations.
Replacing a lost or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, go to a BMV office or approved agent and request a replacement. Bring your identification and proof of residency as you would for a renewal. You do not need to take any tests.
The replacement fee is the same as the renewal fee: $35 for a six-year license or $25 for drivers 65 and older. You will receive a new card with a new number. If your license was stolen, consider reporting it to the police so there is a record in case someone tries to use it.
Enhanced licenses and commercial licenses
An enhanced driver license (EDL) can be used to enter certain federal facilities, military bases, and some border crossings without a passport. It costs $60 and is valid for six years. You must explore in person and bring the same documents as a standard license, plus proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport).
A commercial driver license (CDL) is required if you drive a truck, bus, or other large commercial vehicle for work. The requirements are more complex and include a medical examination, written tests on vehicle operation and safety, and a road test. Contact a BMV office for details on CDL requirements and testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Maine license online or by mail?
No. Maine requires all driver license renewals, replacements, and new licenses to be done in person at a BMV office or approved agent. You cannot renew by mail or online.
What happens if I drive with an expired license?
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Maine and can result in a fine. If you are stopped by police, you may receive a citation. Renew your license before it expires to avoid this penalty.
How long does it take to get a new license after I pass the road test?
You will usually receive your license the same day you pass the road test. Some BMV offices may mail it to you instead, which takes a few days. Ask the examiner what to expect at your office.
Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?
Yes. Maine allows you to renew an expired license at any BMV office, no matter how long ago it expired. However, you cannot legally drive until your new license is issued, so renew as soon as you can.
Do I need an appointment at a Maine BMV office?
It depends on the office. Some accept walk-ins, while others require appointments. Check the BMV website or call the office you plan to visit to find out their policy and to schedule if needed.