What you need to do to renew in Maine
In Maine, you renew your driver's license through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You can renew by mail, online, or in person at a BMV office — which route works depends on how much time you have left and whether your address or other details have changed. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office.
Your license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. Maine sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and works if your address has not changed and you have a valid Social Security number on file.
- Mail renewal requires the renewal notice, a check or money order, and takes two to three weeks from the time the BMV receives your packet.
- In-person renewal at a BMV office is fastest if you need your new license the same day, but you must bring your current license and proof of residency.
- If your address changed, you cannot renew online — you must renew by mail or in person and bring a document showing your new address.
- The renewal fee is $35 for an eight-year license, and you can pay by check, money order, or credit card depending on your method.
Renewing online through the BMV website
Online renewal is the fastest and most convenient option if you meet the requirements. Go to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website (maine.gov/bmv) and look for the "Renew Your License Online" link. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Online renewal works only if your address has not changed since your license was issued. If you moved, you must renew by mail or in person instead. The system will tell you when ready whether you are able to renew online or whether you need to use a different method.
Once you complete the online form and pay the $35 fee with a credit or debit card, the BMV mails your new license to the address on file. Delivery takes about one to two weeks. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Renewing by mail with the renewal notice
If you received a renewal notice in the mail from the BMV, you can renew by mail without visiting an office. The notice includes a form you fill out, your current license number, and instructions for payment. Write a check or money order for $35 payable to "State of Maine" and mail both the form and payment to the address shown on the notice.
Mail your packet at least three weeks before your license expires to allow time for processing and delivery. The BMV typically processes mail renewals within two to three weeks of receiving them, but mail delivery itself adds time on both ends. If your expiration date is sooner than three weeks away, renew in person instead.
If you did not receive a renewal notice, you can request one by calling the BMV at 207-624-9000 or visiting a BMV office. You can also renew by mail without the notice if you include a photocopy of your current license with your payment.
Renewing in person at a BMV office
Visit any Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office to renew in person. Bring your current driver's license and proof that you live at the address you want on your new license. Acceptable proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and current address.
If your address has changed since your last license, bring a document showing your new address. If your name changed (through marriage, divorce, or legal change), bring the court order or marriage certificate along with your current license.
Processing takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and you can receive your new license the same day you visit. You pay $35 by cash, check, money order, or credit card. The BMV office will take a new photo for your license unless you renewed within the last four years and your photo is still acceptable.
Finding a BMV office near you
Maine has BMV offices in most towns and cities. The main office is in Augusta, but you can renew at any regional office. Visit maine.gov/bmv and use the office locator to find the nearest location, hours, and phone number. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments during busy times.
Call ahead before you visit to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning or mid-week visits are usually faster than afternoons or Saturdays.
What happens if your license expires before you renew
If your license expires before your new one arrives, you can still drive legally if you have proof that you submitted a renewal request. Keep your renewal notice, confirmation email from online renewal, or a copy of your mailed renewal packet in your vehicle. If you are stopped by police, show them this proof along with your expired license.
However, it is safer to renew well before expiration. If you are pulled over and cannot show proof of a pending renewal, you may receive a ticket. If your license has been expired for more than a few days and you have not yet renewed, visit a BMV office in person to speed up the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding ticket or fine?
Yes. Maine does not hold up license renewals for traffic violations or unpaid fines. You can renew your license regardless of outstanding tickets, though you will still owe the fine and may face additional penalties if you do not pay it.
Do I need a new photo for my renewal?
If you renew online or by mail, the BMV uses your existing photo from your current license. If you renew in person and your photo is more than four years old, the BMV will take a new one. You can request a new photo at any in-person renewal even if your old one is recent.
What if my name changed since my last license?
Bring the legal document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change. You must renew in person or by mail; online renewal does not work for name changes. The BMV will issue a new license with your updated name.
How long does it take to get my license after I renew online?
Online renewals are mailed within a few business days and typically arrive within one to two weeks. Delivery time depends on your location and postal service. You can drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Can I renew my license if I moved out of state?
No. If you no longer live in Maine, you cannot renew a Maine license. You must obtain a driver's license from your new state. Contact your new state's motor vehicle department to learn about their licensing process.