Maine driver's license renewal by mail or online
Maine allows you to renew your driver's license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions. You do not need to visit a Bureau of Motor Vehicles office unless your license has been suspended, you need to change your address, or your license expired more than five years ago. Most people renew either through the mail using a renewal notice sent by the state, or through the online portal at maine.gov/online-services.
The online renewal process is faster — you can complete it in minutes and receive your new license by mail within two to three weeks. Mail renewal takes longer because the state processes applications in the order received, typically four to six weeks. Both methods cost the same and renew your license for the same period.
Key Takeaways
- Maine sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires; use that notice to renew online or by mail without visiting an office.
- Online renewal through maine.gov/online-services is the fastest option and requires your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.
- Mail renewal requires you to complete the process form, include a check or money order, and mail everything to the address on your renewal notice.
- If you did not receive a renewal notice, lost your license, or need to change your address, you must visit a Bureau of Motor Vehicles office in person.
- Standard license renewal costs vary by license type and validity period; Real ID compliant licenses cost more and require additional documents if you are renewing in person.
What documents you need for mail renewal
For mail renewal, you need the renewal notice Maine sent you, your current driver's license, and a completed process form. The renewal notice includes the process form or directs you to print one from maine.gov. You do not need to provide proof of residency or other supporting documents unless you are changing your address on your license.
If you are changing your address, include a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Mail your completed form, license, and payment to the address listed on your renewal notice. Do not mail your original license unless the notice specifically instructs you to; some renewal notices ask you to keep it.
Online renewal through Maine's portal
To renew online, go to maine.gov/online-services and select the driver's license renewal option. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and show you the renewal fee before you pay.
Online renewal does not allow you to change your address. If your address has changed, you must renew by mail or visit a Bureau of Motor Vehicles office. After you complete the online transaction, the state mails your new license to the address on file. You can track your process status through the same portal using your license number.
When you must visit a Bureau of Motor Vehicles office
You cannot renew by mail or online if your license expired more than five years ago, if it has been suspended or revoked, or if you need to change your address and did not receive a renewal notice. You also must visit in person if you did not receive a renewal notice and your license is expiring within 30 days.
If you are renewing a Real ID compliant license in person, bring your current license, proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and proof of Maine residency (utility bill or lease). The office will take a new photo and process your process on the spot. Standard non-Real ID licenses require fewer documents; ask your local office what to bring.
Renewal fees and license validity periods
Maine driver's licenses are valid for either four or six years depending on your age and license type. Standard licenses cost less than Real ID compliant licenses. The renewal fee is the same whether you renew by mail, online, or in person. Fees vary slightly by license type, so check maine.gov or your renewal notice for the exact amount.
If your license is expiring and you have not received a renewal notice, contact your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles office or call the central office at 207-624-9000 to confirm your address is correct in the system. Renewal notices are mailed to the address on file, so if you moved without updating your license, the notice may not have reached you.
What happens after you submit your renewal
After you renew by mail, the state processes applications in the order received. You can continue to drive on your expired license while your renewal is being processed. Your new license will arrive by mail; the state does not issue temporary licenses during renewal.
If you renew online, you receive a confirmation number when ready. The state mails your new license to your address on file within two to three weeks. If more than three weeks pass and you have not received it, contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles with your confirmation number to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Maine license if I moved out of state?
No. Maine only renews licenses for people who still live in Maine. If you moved, you must get a license from your new state. You can surrender your Maine license by mail or in person at any Bureau of Motor Vehicles office.
What if I lost my license before it expired?
You cannot renew by mail or online if your license is lost. Visit a Bureau of Motor Vehicles office and request a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and residency. The office will issue a new license with the same expiration date as your lost one.
Do I need a Real ID compliant license to renew?
No. You can renew a standard license by mail or online without upgrading to Real ID. Real ID is required only for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight. If you want to upgrade during renewal, you must do so in person and bring additional documents.
How long does mail renewal take?
Mail renewal typically takes four to six weeks from the date the state receives your process. Processing time varies depending on the volume of applications. You can drive on your expired license while waiting.
What if my renewal notice has the wrong address?
Contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles before you renew to update your address in the system. If you renew by mail with the wrong address on the notice, your new license will be mailed to that address. Online renewal does not allow address changes, so you must update it before renewing online.