What you need to do to renew in Maine
To renew your Maine driver's license, you can do it in person at any Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Maine BMV website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether Maine will let you renew without an in-person visit.
Maine allows online renewal for most people whose licenses are not expired or suspended, and whose addresses haven't changed. If you don't meet those conditions, you'll need to go to a BMV office in person. Mail renewal is also an option for some drivers, though it takes longer than the other methods.
Key Takeaways
- Maine driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
- Online renewal through the Maine BMV website is the fastest option if your license is current and your address hasn't changed.
- If your license is expired, your address changed, or you need a new photo, you must renew in person at a BMV office.
- Mail renewal takes four to six weeks and requires sending your current license and a completed form to the BMV.
- Bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment when you visit a BMV office in person.
Renewing online through the Maine BMV website
Online renewal is available at maine.gov/bmv and is the fastest way to renew if you're may be able to access. You'll need your current Maine driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The process takes about 10 minutes, and you'll receive your renewed license by mail within two to three weeks.
You can renew online only if your license is not expired, your address hasn't changed since your last renewal, and your license is not suspended or revoked. If any of those conditions don't explore to you, skip to the in-person section below.
Renewing in person at a BMV office
Visit any Maine BMV office if your license is expired, your address has changed, you need a new photo, or you want to change your name or other information on your license. Bring your current license, one form of proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations accept them to reduce wait time.
The renewal fee is $35 for an eight-year license. Processing takes a few minutes, and you'll receive your new license by mail within two to three weeks. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, ask the BMV office for a temporary paper license at the time of renewal.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired and your address hasn't changed. Complete the process form (available at maine.gov/bmv or by calling the BMV at 207-624-9000), include your current license, and mail both to the address on the form along with a check or money order for $35. Do not send cash.
Mail renewal takes four to six weeks from the time the BMV receives your materials. This method is slower than online or in-person renewal, so plan ahead if you have a important date. Keep a copy of your process and proof of mailing in case you need to follow up.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a BMV office in person and may need to retake the written test and eye exam, depending on how long it has been expired. Call the BMV at 207-624-9000 before you go to find out what documents and tests you'll need.
If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew by mail or in person using the standard renewal process. Online renewal is not available for expired licenses.
Finding a BMV office near you
Maine has BMV offices in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, and Portland. You can find the full list of locations, hours, and phone numbers at maine.gov/bmv. Some offices have longer wait times than others, especially on weekdays in the afternoon. Calling ahead can tell you which office is least busy.
If you live far from any office, mail renewal may save you a trip, though it takes longer. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access and don't need to change your photo or address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I've moved to a different address?
If you've moved, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a BMV office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. Bring your current license as well.
What if I need my new license before it arrives in the mail?
Ask the BMV office for a temporary paper license when you renew in person. This temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for your permanent license to arrive. Mail renewal and online renewal do not include a temporary license option.
How long is a Maine driver's license valid?
Maine driver's licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your license expires. Check the expiration date on your current license to see when you're may be able to access to renew.
What if I lost my current license?
You cannot renew online or by mail if you don't have your current license. Visit a BMV office in person with proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of residency. The BMV will issue a replacement license.
Do I need an appointment to renew at a BMV office?
Most Maine BMV offices do not require appointments for renewal, but some locations accept them. Call the office you plan to visit to ask whether appointments are available and whether they reduce wait time. Walk-ins are always accepted.