Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Comprehensive Services for Visually Impaired and Blind Individuals of All Ages

The goal of vocational rehabilitation services is to help you get a job, retain or return to employment.

You could receive:


Provides training and support to manage snack bars, cafeterias and vending machine facilities on state federal and municipal properties.

Visit the Business Enterprise Program homepage for more information..


  • Adaptive skill training provides alternative skills to accomplish activities of daily living.
  • Homemaking skills training may include meal preparation, shopping, and cleaning.
  • Individuals may be trained in a variety of personal management skills, such as managing money, dialing a telephone, and telling time.
  • Mobility instruction assists individuals to travel safely through the use of alternative techniques.
  • The services are provided by our multidisciplinary staff in conjunction with vision rehabilitation therapists from The Iris Network..
  • Rules governing the Blind IL Program (Word)

Comprehensive services for children and families begin as soon as a child is identified as blind or visually impaired. Our multidisciplinary staff, in conjunction with teachers from Catholic Charities Maine, work with parents and schools to develop and implement an individualized education program. For more information please contact Catholic Charities Maine .


Orientation and mobility instruction to develop independent travel skills:


Are you committed to accessibility, but you aren’t sure where to start when it comes to vision loss?

Do you ever wonder how to help someone who is blind?

Does the idea of vision loss cause fear or discomfort?

Do you want to learn more about technology and braille?

The Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI) currently offers in-person and remote trainings and consultations for organizations, schools, businesses, medical professionals and beyond.

Some of the topics covered include

  • Accessibility
  • Accessible remote meetings
  • Descriptions for the blind and visually impaired
  • Supporting individuals with vision loss
  • Effective communication and alternative formats
  • Environmental assessments and recommendations
  • Guiding and assisting individuals with vision loss
  • Progressive employment
  • Reasonable accommodations
  • Major types of vision loss and the functional impacts
  • Vision simulator and blindfold Interactive experiences and activities

We can also design statewide trainings and provide consultations specific to your needs at no-charge.

Contact us for more info:

Sharisse Roberts Outreach & Employment Consultant

  • Email: Sharisse.G.Roberts@maine.gov
  • Tel: 1-866-DBVI-4-ME (1-866-328-4463)
  • TTY users call Maine Relay 711Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Download the informational document (PDF)

The DBVI Consumer Handbook provides a plain language explanation of the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired program for consumers.


DBVI State Plan page


The mission of the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to provide leadership and diverse viewpoints in partnership with the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired to develop and evaluate programs and services; to identify priorities that help create opportunities, increase independence and broaden access to the workplace for citizens of all ages who are blind or visually impaired.


Watch a short video about a client who sought help getting employment! (MP4 format)


DBVI Consumer Handbook

  • The DBVI Consumer Handbook provides a plain language explanation of the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired program for consumers.

Financial Services

  • Any person legally blind and in need, may apply for SSI or SSDI at the nearest Social Security Office. For information, please call: 622-8348 or 1-800-772-1213

Real Estate Tax Exemption

  • Persons who are legally blind may receive a real estate tax exemption of up to $4,000.00 on their property valuation by applying through your local town office. You must provide a medical report that states you are "legally blind"

I.D. Cards

  • A card is available to visually impaired people who do not have a driver’s license. This card is acceptable identification for cashing checks, and other transactions. It may be obtained at any Department of Motor Vehicles office. The fee is $5.00.

Library Services

  • Maine State Library Talking Book Program provides books and magazines in a recorded cassette or disc format to people who are visually impaired, blind, or physically handicapped. Applications are available from the Maine State Library and from public library service centers throughout the state, or by calling the Special Services toll-free numbers:
    • 1-800-762-7106

1-866-DBVI-4-ME (1-866-328-4463)

Telephone: or 207-623-7948
TTY users please use Maine Relay 711
FAX: 207-879-7553

DBVI Regions

DBVI Organizational Chart