USA Maine Driver License

Maine Driver License: 2025 Guide for New, Renewal, and Transfer Applicants

Getting your driver license in Maine is a straightforward process when you know the steps. Whether you’re a first-time applicant, a new resident, or need to renew, this complete 2025 guide from the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will help you every step of the way.

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How to Get a Driver License in Maine

Step 1: Choose Your License Type

The most common types include:

• Class C License – Standard driver license for non-commercial vehicles
• Class M – Motorcycle license or endorsement
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) – For large or commercial vehicles
• Learner’s Permit – For new and teen drivers

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Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Whether applying for a standard or REAL ID-compliant license, you must provide:

• Proof of identity and legal presence (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate)
• Social Security number (e.g., SSN card, W-2)
• Two documents showing Maine residency (e.g., utility bill, lease)
• Proof of name change (if applicable)

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Step 3: Take the Required Tests

If you’re a first-time applicant, you must pass:

• Vision screening
• Written knowledge exam
• Road (driving) test (after passing the written test)

Tests are typically conducted at Maine BMV branch locations. Appointments are required.

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Maine Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) for Teens

Maine uses a Graduated Driver Licensing system for drivers under 18:

1. Learner’s Permit (Minimum age: 15)
   • Must complete driver’s education
   • Pass vision and written test
   • Must hold for at least 6 months and log 70 hours of supervised driving (10 at night)
2. Intermediate License (Minimum age: 16)
   • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
   • No use of mobile devices while driving
   • Passenger restrictions apply for the first 9 months
3. Full License – Granted automatically at 18 if the teen has maintained a clean record

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Maine

New residents must obtain a Maine license within 30 days of establishing residency.

To transfer:

• Visit a Maine BMV office
• Provide a valid out-of-state license
• Bring required identification and residency documents
• Pass a vision screening
• Written and road tests may be waived if your license is valid

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Renewing Your Maine Driver License

You can renew:

• Online via Maine.gov
• In person at any BMV office

Maine licenses are valid for 6 years for most drivers. Drivers over 65 may be issued a 4-year license.

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Maine REAL ID – Compliant License

Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID license or passport is required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.

To get a REAL ID:

• Visit a BMV office in person
• Bring identity, SSN, and two proof-of-residency documents
• A gold star in the upper right corner indicates REAL ID compliance

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Maine Driver License Fees (2025)

License Type	Fee (Approx.)
Standard Class C License	$30.00 (6 years)
Learner’s Permit	$35.00
Motorcycle Endorsement	$35.00
Road Test	$35.00
Duplicate License	$5.00
REAL ID Upgrade (at renewal)	No extra fee if documents are provided

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Maine BMV Services

• Driver’s license issuance & renewal
• Learner’s permits and testing
• Out-of-state transfers
• REAL ID processing
• Motorcycle and CDL licensing
• Name and address changes
• Online appointment scheduling

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. passport or certified birth certificate
• Social Security card or tax document
• Two documents proving Maine residency
• Driver’s ed certificate (if under 18)
• Out-of-state license (for transfers)

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For more details, scheduling, or online applications, visit the official Maine BMV website.