Get your first driver's license in Maine

Online or in person

No, by mail or at a branch · At least two visitsYou can bring the permit application and documents to a branch or mail them to the BMV Examination Section; the BMV then mails you a written exam appointment. Copies of identity documents can be mailed, but originals must be shown at the exam. The BMV's online services listed are for renewals, duplicates, records and tickets, not a first license. The written exam (with a free vision screening) at a BMV branch, then the road test at the testing location nearest you. The BMV schedules both and mails the appointment notice. Under 18, a parent or guardian must be present at the signing and award of the license.

Cost

$35 permit exam + $30 license"Class C and Motorcycle Permit Examination (Written Test)" $35. Class C license under 65, 6 years: $30 ($55 as a REAL ID). The fee page lists no separate road test fee.

You leave with

Learner's permit, then a provisional licenseUnder 21 the first license is provisional for two years; at 21 or older, for one year. You get a temporary license when you pass the road test; ordered licenses arrive in 3-4 weeks.

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • Permit application form · all that apply
     The learner's permit application from the BMV forms page, with the $35 fee.
   • Proof of identity · 2 different documents
     Two documents: one showing your date of birth and one with your signature. A birth certificate is required if you are under 23 (a photocopy with the issuing agency's embossed stamp is acceptable). Copies can be mailed, but originals must be shown at the exam. For a minor, a parent or guardian can appear in person and prove their identity.
     Show accepted documents (bring 2)

     • Birth certificate
     • Passport
     • Social Security card
     • Military ID
     • Baptismal record
     • Adoption papers
   • Social Security number · all that apply
     If your number is not on file, you must know it and provide it. If you are not eligible for one, bring an unexpired immigration document such as an I-94.
   • Proof of Maine residency
     One document with your physical address (two for a REAL ID). If you can't provide one, you can submit the BMV's residency affidavits from two people who know you; under 18, one affidavit is enough if signed by your parent or guardian.
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • Utility bill
     • Paycheck stub
     • W-2
     • Tax bill or tax return
     • Document issued by a government entity
     • Contract in your name
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence · all that apply

2. Apply for the learner's permit

   Send or bring the permit application, $35 fee and documents. The BMV schedules your written exam at the location closest to your mailing address and mails the notice within three weeks. You can reschedule without penalty up to 48 hours before.

   How to Obtain a License (Maine BMV) ↗

3. Pass the written exam and vision screening

   30 questions; you need at least 24 right. It covers rules of the road, signs, pedestrian and bicycle safety, OUI laws and distracted driving. The vision screening is free at the exam, or your doctor can fill out the eye form.

   Driver's License Exam (Maine BMV) ↗

4. Practice with a supervisor

   At 21 or older there is no six-month wait and no practice log. Drive only with a licensed driver at least 20 who has held a license at least two years, beside you. No use of a mobile telephone or handheld electronic device while driving on a permit.

5. Request and pass the road test

   Mail the road test request card from the back of your permit to the BMV in Augusta (under 21: mail the completed driving log instead). You're scheduled at the testing location nearest you. Bring your permit and the appointment notice, and a vehicle that is not on an antique registration. If you pass, you get a temporary license.

   Driver's License Exam (Maine BMV) ↗

6. Drive carefully during the provisional period

   The first license is provisional for two years if issued before 21 (even past your 21st birthday), or one year at 21 or older. A moving violation in that time results in suspension.