How to Renew Your Maine Driver's License

Maine driver's license renewal by mail or online

Maine lets you renew your driver's license by mail or online if you meet a few basic conditions. You can renew online through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website if your license is not expired, you have not had any suspensions or revocations, and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal. If you do not meet those conditions, or if you prefer to renew in person, you can mail your renewal process to the BMV or visit a branch office.

The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs $35 for a five-year license. Your new license will arrive by mail in about two to three weeks. If you choose to renew by mail, send your completed process form (DL 44) along with the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. In-person renewal at a BMV office takes the same fee and happens the same day, though you will need to bring proof of residency and your current license.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Maine BMV website is the fastest option if your license is current and you have had no suspensions or name changes.
Mail renewal requires form DL 44, your current license, and a $35 check or money order sent to the BMV address on the form.
In-person renewal at any Maine BMV office takes the same day and costs $35, but requires proof of residency and your current license.
Your new license arrives by mail within two to three weeks for online or mail renewal; in-person renewal gives you a temporary license when ready.
If your license is expired, suspended, or you have changed your name or address, you must renew in person at a BMV office.

Online renewal through the Maine BMV website

To renew online, go to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website and log into your account or create one if you do not have one yet. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information and show you whether you are may be able to access to renew online. If you are, you can complete the renewal, pay the $35 fee by credit or debit card, and submit your process in one session.

Online renewal is only open to drivers whose licenses are not yet expired and who have no active suspensions, revocations, or restrictions. If you have changed your name, moved to a new address, or want to update your emergency contact information, you cannot use the online system — you must renew in person. The same applies if you want to change your organ donor status or your gender marker on your license.

Mail renewal and what to send

To renew by mail, request form DL 44 from the Maine BMV or read it from their website. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for $35 made payable to the State of Maine. Do not send cash. Include a copy of proof of residency if you have moved since your last renewal — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works.

Mail your renewal packet to the address printed on form DL 44. Processing takes about two to three weeks from the date the BMV receives your process. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on file. If you do not receive your license within four weeks, contact the BMV to check the status of your process.

In-person renewal at a Maine BMV office

You can renew your license in person at any Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and $35 in cash or card. The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

In-person renewal is required if your license is expired, if you have an active suspension or revocation, if you have changed your name or address, or if you want to update your photo. The BMV has offices in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, Portland, and several other locations across the state. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the Maine BMV website.

License expiration dates and renewal windows

Maine driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of issue. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, which gives you time to plan. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must renew in person at a BMV office.

The BMV does not send renewal reminders by mail or email, so mark your expiration date on a calendar or set a phone reminder. If you let your license expire and then drive, you can be cited for operating with an expired license, even if you were not stopped for any other reason. Renewing early avoids this risk and gives you time to receive your new license by mail before the old one expires.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your license has been suspended or revoked — for unpaid traffic fines, DUI, accumulating points, or other violations — you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You must first resolve the issue that caused the suspension. This might mean paying outstanding fines, completing a substance abuse program, or waiting out a mandatory suspension period.

Contact the Maine BMV or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps you need to take. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew your license by mail, online, or in person, depending on your other circumstances. If you are unsure whether your license is currently suspended, call the BMV at 207-624-9000 or check your status on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Maine license if I have moved out of state?

No. If you have moved out of state and no longer live in Maine, you should not renew your Maine license. Instead, you should get a license from your new state of residence. If you still live in Maine but have moved to a new address, you can renew by mail or online as long as you have not changed your name or had any suspensions.

What if my name has changed since my last renewal?

You must renew in person at a BMV office and bring proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need your current license and proof of residency. Bring the original document or a certified copy; the BMV will not accept photocopies.

How much does a Maine license renewal cost?

A five-year license renewal costs $35. This fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. If you renew in person, you can pay by cash or card. For mail renewal, send a check or money order; do not send cash.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

If your license is lost or stolen, you must get a replacement before you can renew. Go to a BMV office with proof of identity and residency, pay a $25 replacement fee, and you will receive a temporary license on the spot. Your permanent replacement license arrives by mail in two to three weeks. Once you have your replacement, you can renew it normally.

Can I renew my license if it is suspended for unpaid child support?

No. A suspension for unpaid child support must be lifted before you can renew. Contact the Maine Department of Health and Human Services or the court handling your case to find out how to resolve the arrears. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew your license through any method that fits your situation.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.