Maine.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Note: PDF files require the free Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you need an alternate format, please contact the BMV office by email at: license.bmv@maine.gov.

Who is eligible to use the rapid renewal on-line licensing system?

Please be advised if you receive an error message, it may mean that additional information is needed as it relates to the address on your current credential and you will need to proceed to a Motor Vehicle branch office to complete this transaction. As of April 18, 2008, you are required to show proof of your Maine residential address to BMV branch office personnel before your license or State ID request can be completed. For more information about this requirement, please visit our website at (http://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/licenses/residency.html) or call 624-9000, ext. 52114.

For a state ID card:

  • Anyone purchasing a replacement identification card if all legal residency and legal presence requirements have been met. If not, you will receive an error message.

    Note: You will be able to update your address, height, and weight and hair color.

For a driver's license:

  • Anyone purchasing a replacement license if all legal residency and legal presence requirements have been met. If not, you will receive an error message.
  • Anyone renewing their license that is not required to have a vision screening and who has provided all legal residency and legal presence requirements. If not, you will receive an error message.
  • A vision screening is required at the first license renewal after attaining age 40 and at every 2nd license renewal after that. A vision screening is required at every license renewal after attaining age 62.
    Note: Members of the military with a 'K' or '2' endorsement on their license are required to have an eye exam at certain ages over 40.

    Note: You will be able to update your address, height, and weight and hair color.

How do I change my address only?

  • Maine law requires you to notify the Secretary of State within 30 days of any change in your name or address. As of April 18, 2008, you are required to show proof of your Maine residential address, if this has been provided, you will be able to use this service to obtain a new credential and update your mailing and/or residential address if it has changed since your last credential was issued. For more information about this requirement, please visit our website at (http://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/licenses/residency.html) or call 624-9000, ext. 52114.

Why do I need to disclose my social security number to use the online service?

  • This statement is made in accordance with the Federal Privacy Act of 1974, Section 7(b). Disclosure of your social security number is mandatory and is required by 29-A MRSA ยง 1301(5) and (6) to apply for or renew a driver's license or non-driver identification card. Your social security number will be used solely for identification purposes and will be kept confidential.

How long will it take to receive my credential in the mail?

  • Your credential may take up to three weeks to arrive in the mail, however, most requests are fulfilled in less than two weeks. Your temporary credential is effective for 60 days.

You may not use this service to order a driver's license if any of the following condition apply:

  • Your privilege to operate is suspended.
  • You hold a commercial driver's license.
  • You hold a driver's license from another jurisdiction.
  • You changed your name since your last renewal; please visit a motor vehicle office to process a name change.

I have developed a medical condition or my present condition has changed since my last renewal, can I use this service?

I need an eye exam, can I use this service?

  • No, vision screenings are required at the first license renewal after attaining age 40 and at every 2nd renewal after that. A vision screening is required at every license renewal after attaining age 62. This screening may be done at a motor vehicle office or by your eye doctor. Please visit a motor vehicle office to renew your license. The following document will provide you with more information:

    Eye Form and Information (PDF)

  • Note: Please be advised if you receive the following error message it may mean that additional information is needed and you will need to proceed to a Motor Vehicle branch office to complete the transaction. The following link will provide information for what you will need to bring with you in order to complete the process.

Additional information for members of the military

  • The renewal fee will be waived if your license includes the 'K' or '2' endorsement. You may still renew on-line without the endorsement but payment of the fee will be required. To have the 'K' or '2' endorsement added to your record, please contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for additional information.

Questions about this Service? Contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles at: (207) 624-9000 Ext: 52114 or email license.bmv@maine.gov