Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Maine

1) Choose Your License

Whether you're an adult who has never learned to drive, a teenager ready to get behind the wheel for the first time, or you just moved to The Volunteer State, you must obtain a driver’s license to legally operate a motor vehicle on Maine roads. The state offers the following types of licenses:

• Class C (regular driver's license)

• Class A and B (commercial)

If you're between 15-17 years old, you must complete a driver's education class and obtain a permit before applying for your driver's license.

2) Take a Driver's Education Course

Younger than 18―People in this category must take a driver's education class before applying for a license.

18 and Older―While those in this category aren't required to take a driver's education class, doing so just makes good sense. These classes offer valuable information about driving laws and driver skills that could save your life―or the life of others.

3) Prepare for the Test

Studying the driver manual is the best way to get ready for the written test you'll need to pass to obtain your license. Taking a few of our practice tests is also a smart move.

4) Locate a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Office

You'll need to go to a BMV office at the time assigned by the agency to take your written and vision test.

5) Make Test-Day Preparations

Be sure to have with you:

• Two acceptable forms of identification.

• If you're under 23, one of those documents must be the original copy of your birth certificate.

• Driver education completion certificate.

6) Take the Written Test

After thoroughly studying the Maine Motorist Handbook and Study Guide, completing the driver's ed course, and showing up at your appointed time, the next step is to take your written test.

7) Get a Car

You must provide a car that's safe to operate in order to take the road exam. If you need to find such a car and are considering buying a used vehicle, it's smart to obtain a vehicle history report prior to purchasing the vehicle.

8) Get Car Insurance

All drivers in Maine must be covered by motor vehicle liability insurance. If you're looking for an insurance carrier, check out our Insurance Center for the best rates.

9) Take the Driving Test

Those with a valid, out-of-state driving license can skip both the written and road tests, and instead just take the vision test.

Everyone else, though, needs to take the road test to gain their Maine driver license. Be sure to show up at the BMV branch at your appointed time.

If You Pass

If you pass the test, you'll receive your license at the BMV branch. Six-year photo licenses cost $30; four-year licenses (issued to those ages 65 and over) cost $21.

If You Fail

You'll be given instructions on how and when to take the test again after you've failed the test.

Non-Citizens

Visitors

If you're a currently licensed driver from another country and are visiting Maine, you may drive for up to one year within the state. You should also have an International Driver Permit, issued by your home country. The permit basically translates your foreign-issued license to make it understandable to U.S. officials.

Be sure to carry your license and permit with you whenever you're driving.

Residents

If you become a resident of the state, you'll need to obtain a Maine driver's license within 30 days of your residency in order to retain your driving privileges. For information on how to apply for a license in your specific situation, contact a motor vehicle branch office or call (207) 624-9000.

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