Who must submit to a vision screening?
- Anyone applying for an initial license,
- Applicants with a valid out-of-state license,
- Anyone changing their license classification, and
- Applicants between the ages of 40-45, 52-57, and 62 and older must have a vision screening (Title 29-A, §1303)
Where do I obtain a vision screening?
You can have the vision screening done at no fee when you appear for your driver's examination, or if you choose, you can have your vision screening done at your expense by visiting an eye care specialist. The eye care specialist will need to fill out the MVE-103: Eye Examinations Form located on the BMV website under Forms and Applications.
What does the vision screening consist of?
The main elements of vision necessary for safe driving are adequate visual acuity and peripheral vision. The vision screening will measure your visual acuity (how clearly you see) and your peripheral vision (how far you can see to either side while looking straight ahead).
Rules (PDF) governing medical conditions and the operation of motor vehicles may be obtained online or by sending a written request to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Medical Section
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
What do I do with my vision screening document if it is completed at my doctor's office?
***Unfortunately, even with a favorable vision form in your record, you cannot renew your license using our online service.***
Most eye care specialists in the State of Maine are familiar with the eye exam form and the process to get the document to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
After the clinician has completed the vision form, they can fax it to the medical unit 207-624-9319 or if they prefer to email it, they can send it to medical.bmv@maine.gov. Once the medical unit receives it, they will update your record with the most recent vision exam. You should retain the document for your records in case it is needed in the future.
You could also mail in a copy of the vision screening to the address below:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Medical Section
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
Your third option is to bring the vision form with you to renew your license at any of the 13 branches located throughout the state.
***Unfortunately, even with a favorable vision form in your record, you cannot renew your license using our online service.***
If you have further questions you can use the Contact Us form located in the upper right-hand corner of this page or email us at medical.bmv@maine.gov or contact the Medical unit directly at 207-624-9000 ext. 52124.