The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) oversees driver licensing, vehicle registration, titles, and license plates for the state of Maine. Here is an overview of key services and information:
Forms
The Maine BMV provides forms for license and registration needs, including:
- Driver’s License or ID Application (MVD-1)
- Vehicle Registration Application (MVT-2)
- Duplicate Title Request (MVT-21)
- Change of Address Notification (MVD-4)
Online services
Download official ME BMV forms from the BMV website for accuracy.
Registration Renewal Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Maine vehicle registrations must be renewed every 1 or 2 years. Renewal reminders are mailed out 6-8 weeks prior to expiration.
Registrations can be renewed online, by mail, in person, or via third-party agents like AAA offices. Have your registration, insurance, and mileage available.
Appointment Scheduling
The ME BMV offers appointments for select services such as road tests, REAL ID applications, and some license exchanges.
Book appointments online in advance to save time. Be sure to verify what documents to bring. Appointments fill up quickly.
Driver Exam Stations
There are 12 BMV branch offices and 9 mobile units offering knowledge and road exams across Maine. Both tests are by appointment only.
Study the driver’s manual, bring proper ID, and your completed application. Road tests are conducted using the applicant’s vehicle.
2024 Maine Driver’s Manual
The 2024 Maine Driver’s Manual covers laws, safety, road signs, license procedures, and more.
Read the entire manual before taking your learner’s permit knowledge test. Review road signs, signals, and markings before your road test.
License Renewal Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Maine driver’s licenses are valid for 6 years and expire on your birthday. Renewal reminders are mailed out 6 weeks before expiration.
Licenses can be renewed up to a year prior to expiration online, by mail, or in person. Updated identity documents are required.
License Plates
Maine requires all motor vehicles to display a valid rear license plate only. Standard plates have green letters/numbers on a white background.
To get ME plates, apply at the BMV or a third-party agent like a town office. Specialty plates cost extra fees.
Contact BMV
Find contact information for your local ME BMV office on their website. You can also call the BMV at (207) 624-9000.
BMV branch hours vary, but are typically open Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. Some locations offer extended hours until 5pm.
5 Key Maine BMV Questions
1. How do I transfer my out-of-state license to Maine?
Apply for a ME license within 30 days of residency. Bring your old license, proof of identity, and residency docs.
2. Does Maine require emissions or smog testing?
No, Maine does not require any emissions testing for vehicle registration.
3. What’s the penalty for late registration renewal?
Registrations renewed after expiration incur a $25 late fee plus $1 per day late.
4. Can I hold both a Maine driver’s license and ID card?
Yes, Maine allows holding both a license and ID card simultaneously.
5. How much are replacement license plates?
It costs $5 to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Maine license plate.
