How to Renew Your Maine Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Maine driver's license in person at any Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes once you're called; mail renewal takes two to four weeks from the day the BMV receives your process. The BMV has offices in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, Portland, and Presque Isle, plus several satellite locations in smaller towns.

For either method, bring your current license and proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form works. If your address has changed since your last renewal, bring a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

You do not need to bring proof of residency if your address hasn't changed. You do not need to retake the written test or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than three years, or unless the BMV has a specific reason to require it.

Key Takeaways

You can renew in person at any Maine BMV office or by mail if your license is not expired and you have no medical or legal holds.
Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of address if it has changed since your last renewal.
In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes; mail renewal takes two to four weeks after the BMV receives your process.
Your new license will be mailed to you after in-person renewal — you cannot take it with you that day.
Renewal fees vary by license type and age; a standard adult license costs less than a REAL ID-compliant license.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired, you have no medical suspensions or legal holds, and you are not changing your name or address. You cannot renew by mail if you are under 21 or if your license will expire while you are out of state for an extended period.

To renew by mail, contact the BMV at 207-624-9000 or visit the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website to request an process. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail everything to the address on the form. The BMV will process your process and mail your new license to the address on file. Do not mail your current license — keep it until your new one arrives.

If you are renewing a REAL ID license by mail, you will need to include a copy of proof of identity and proof of Social Security number with your process. Standard licenses do not require these documents by mail.

Renewing in person at a BMV office

Walk into any Maine BMV office during business hours — no appointment is required, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring the documents listed above, fill out the renewal form at the office, pay the fee, and have your photo taken. Your new license will be mailed to your address within two weeks.

If you are renewing a REAL ID license in person, bring the same documents as for mail renewal: your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address if it has changed. The BMV will verify your identity and Social Security number on the spot.

The BMV offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations staying open until 6 p.m. on certain days. The Presque Isle office has different hours; check the BMV website for the exact schedule at your nearest location.

Understanding license types and fees

Maine offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. A standard license costs less but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. A REAL ID license meets federal standards and can be used for these purposes, but costs more.

The renewal fee for a standard license depends on your age and how many years you are renewing for — typically three, five, or eight years. REAL ID licenses cost more per year but last the same length of time. Fees change periodically; call the BMV or check their website for the current amount.

If you are over 65, you may be able to renew for a longer period at a lower cost. Ask the BMV about senior renewal rates when you explore.

What to do if your license is expired

If your license expired more than three years ago, you cannot renew by mail. You must go to a BMV office in person and retake the written test and vision test, just as you would for a first-time license. Bring the same documents as for a standard renewal, plus a completed process form.

If your license expired fewer than three years ago, you can renew by mail or in person without retesting. The BMV considers your license "expired" but still valid for renewal purposes during this window.

If you have been driving with an expired license, you may face a fine if stopped by police. Renewing as soon as possible protects you from this risk.

Changing your address or name during renewal

If your address has changed, bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. You can update your address in person at a BMV office or by mail if you are renewing by mail. You cannot change your address online.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person and bring the legal document proving the change. The BMV will not process a name change by mail. After you renew, your new license will show your new name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired license while I wait for my new one?

No. Once your license expires, you cannot legally drive. If you are renewing in person, your old license is still valid until the new one arrives, so you can drive home from the BMV office. If you are renewing by mail, make sure your license does not expire before your new one arrives — plan ahead to avoid a gap.

What if I lose my license before it expires?

You need to replace it, not renew it. Contact your local BMV office or call 207-624-9000 for instructions on getting a duplicate license. A duplicate costs less than a renewal and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

Do I need a REAL ID license to fly within the United States?

Yes, starting May 7, 2025, a standard Maine driver's license will not be accepted for domestic flights. You will need a REAL ID license or another federal ID like a passport. If you fly before then, a standard license still works. When you renew, ask the BMV about upgrading to REAL ID.

How long does my new license take to arrive?

After in-person renewal, your license is mailed within two weeks. After mail renewal, the entire process takes two to four weeks from the day the BMV receives your process. Do not expect your license to arrive on a specific date — mail delivery varies.

Can I renew online?

Maine does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew by mail or in person at a BMV office.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.