Check your license status directly through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) maintains a public database where you can look up your own license status without calling or visiting an office. You can check whether your license is currently suspended, revoked, or valid by going to the BMV's online license status tool at maine.gov/bmv. You will need your driver's license number and date of birth to search.
The online tool shows your status when ready and tells you whether any suspensions are active. If your license is suspended, the result will indicate the reason — whether it is related to unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, medical reasons, or another cause. This information helps you understand what step to take next to restore your driving privileges.
Key Takeaways
- The Maine BMV's online license status tool at maine.gov/bmv lets you check your suspension status using your license number and date of birth.
- A suspension result will show the reason — unpaid fines, failure to appear, medical suspension, or another cause — which determines how to restore your license.
- If the online tool does not work or you need more detail, you can call the BMV at 207-624-9000 during business hours or visit a local BMV office in person.
- Some suspensions lift automatically once the underlying issue is resolved, while others require you to file paperwork or pay fees to restore your license.
What happens if the online search shows a suspension
Once you know your license is suspended, the next step depends on the reason. If the suspension is due to unpaid traffic fines or court costs, you will need to pay the amount owed to the court that issued the ticket. Contact the court listed in your suspension notice to confirm the exact amount and payment method.
If the suspension is for failure to appear in court, you must contact that court to reschedule or resolve the case. Some courts allow you to appear by phone or mail to handle the matter without traveling. Once the court case is resolved or the fine is paid, notify the BMV so they can lift the suspension — this does not always happen automatically.
Medical suspensions (issued when the BMV receives a report that you are medically unfit to drive) require a doctor's clearance. You will need to submit a medical form signed by your physician stating that you are safe to drive again, then file it with the BMV.
Calling the BMV if you need more information
If the online tool does not give you enough detail or you cannot access it, call the Maine BMV at 207-624-9000. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Have your license number and date of birth ready when you call.
The BMV staff can tell you the exact reason for your suspension, what amount you owe (if applicable), and which court or agency you need to contact to resolve it. They can also tell you whether your suspension will lift automatically once the underlying issue is fixed or whether you need to file a restoration request.
Visiting a BMV office in person
If you prefer to check your status face-to-face, you can visit any Maine BMV office. Bring your driver's license or state ID. Staff can print your driving record, which shows your suspension status and the reason for it, and can answer questions about what you need to do to restore your license.
Maine has BMV offices in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, and Portland, as well as several smaller branch locations. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check maine.gov/bmv for office hours and locations near you.
Understanding the difference between suspension and revocation
A suspension is temporary — your license is taken away for a set period or until you meet certain conditions, after which it can be restored. A revocation is more serious and typically permanent or long-term. If your license is revoked, you may need to wait a minimum number of years before you can reapply for a new one, and you may face additional requirements like a written test or driving test.
The online status tool and BMV staff will clearly state which one applies to you. If your license is revoked, ask the BMV what the waiting period is and what steps you will need to take when you become may be able to access to reapply.
What to do while your license is suspended
Driving with a suspended license in Maine is illegal and carries criminal penalties, including fines and possible jail time. Do not drive until your suspension is lifted. If you need transportation, use a ride-sharing service, taxi, public transit, or ask someone with a valid license to drive.
Once you have resolved the issue that caused the suspension (paid fines, appeared in court, submitted medical clearance, or whatever applies), contact the BMV to confirm the suspension has been lifted before you drive again. Some suspensions lift automatically within a few days of resolution, but others require you to request reinstatement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a suspension to show up online after the BMV issues it?
Suspensions typically appear in the online system within one to three business days of the BMV processing them. If you were recently notified of a suspension but do not see it online yet, wait a day or two and check again, or call the BMV to confirm it has been entered into the system.
Can I drive to work if my license is suspended?
No. Maine law does not allow any driving during a suspension, even for work or essential errands. Driving with a suspended license is a criminal offense. You must wait until the suspension is lifted before you drive.
What if I lost my license number and cannot search online?
Call the BMV at 207-624-9000 with your full name and date of birth, and staff can look up your status without your license number. You can also visit a BMV office in person with a photo ID, and they will search your record for you.
Do I have to pay a fee to restore my license after a suspension?
It depends on the reason for the suspension. Some restorations are free once the underlying issue is resolved. Others require a reinstatement fee, which the BMV will tell you about when you contact them. Ask specifically whether a fee applies to your situation.