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To Get a Driver's License
In Maine, our BMV branch offices issue driver's licenses. When ordered, licenses take 2-3 weeks to arrive.
Licensing fees vary based on the age of the applicant and the type of license requested.
When obtaining a driver's license in Maine you will need:
- Proof of Maine residency
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or your legal presence in the U.S.
- Two different forms that prove your identity; and
- One form must have your date of birth.
- Another must have your written signature.
- A completed vision screening
Should your Social Security Number not be on file, you must know and provide it. If you believe you are ineligible for one, you must instead submit an unexpired immigration document, such as an I-94.
For those younger than 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you for the signing of your license application and awarding of your license.
If your name has been legally changed you will need to show documentation regarding this. This includes but is not limited to:
- Court documents,
- Divorce decree, or a
- Marriage certificate.
If you’re seeking additional licensing information or looking for a service such as an out-of-state license conversion or a renewal, you can find that here!
New Driver Requirements
There are three groups of Drivers in Maine with varying requirements and restrictions. Simply click which describes you!
Driver's Permit
Obtaining a learner’s permit is the first step in the licensing process. To obtain a permit, you must be at least 15 years old and need to complete a written driving exam. These exams are completed through the application process.
Copies of identity documents may be sent via mail, but originals must be shown at the time of an examination.
To begin the process to obtain a learner’s permit, you must submit:
- An application form (PDF)
- $35 fee
- Two forms of identification
- Proof of Maine residency
- Driver education completion certificate, and a
- Only for applicants who are under 18 years old)
- Birth Certificate
- Only for applicants younger than 23 years old.
- A photocopy with an embossed stamp of the issuing agency is acceptable, while a notarized copy is not.
You can bring these documents to a BMV branch office or mail them to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Driver License Services Division
Examination Section
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
Once processed, the BMV will schedule the written test at the closest location to your mailing address. The appointment notice will come through the mail within three weeks.
Should a test need to be rescheduled, please use the contact information on the notice mailed to you. There is no penalty fee if tests are rescheduled up to 48 hours prior to their start.
Once you arrive for your written exam, you will be given a free vision screening. You may also have your doctor perform this exam and fill out an eye examination form (PDF). The completed form should be given to the examiner when you arrive.
Once earned, a driver’s permit allows you to operate a vehicle, but you must be accompanied by a licensed driver above the age of 20 years old who has held a valid license for at least two years.
Driver’s permits are not renewable and only last for two years. Upon expiration, you must file a new application then retake the vision screening and written exam.
Required logged driving hours do carry over from your first permit to any following permits. There is no additional wait time required on subsequent permits before applying to take the road test.
If you are ready for your road test, visit our exams page! Here you can find a study guide and video that gives you a look at the road test experience.