How to Renew Your Maine Driver's License

Maine driver's licenses renew every six years, and you can do it by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation

In Maine, your driver's license expires six years from the date it was issued. You can renew it starting 180 days before the expiration date. The method you use depends on whether you need a Real ID-compliant license, whether your address has changed, and whether you have any outstanding violations or suspensions. Most people can renew by mail or online without visiting a branch of the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

Your renewal notice will arrive by mail about 60 days before your license expires. It includes your renewal number, which you'll need for any renewal method. If you don't receive one, you can still renew, but you'll need your license number instead.

Key Takeaways

Maine licenses renew every six years, and you can start the process 180 days before expiration.
Online renewal works if your license is not suspended, your address hasn't changed, and you don't need a Real ID upgrade.
Mail renewal requires a completed form, your renewal notice or license number, and payment by check or money order.
In-person renewal at a BMV branch is necessary only if you need a Real ID, have address changes, or have had violations.
The renewal fee is $35 for a standard six-year license; Real ID licenses cost $50.

Renewing online through the Maine BMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. Go to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website and select "Renew Your License" from the main menu. You'll enter your license number or renewal number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information against BMV records.

Online renewal is available only if your current license is valid (not suspended or revoked), your address has not changed since your last renewal, and you do not need a Real ID. If any of these conditions don't explore, you must renew by mail or in person. You'll pay the $35 renewal fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing by mail with a paper form

Mail renewal takes longer but requires no trip to a BMV office. Complete the process for Renewal of Driver's License form (Form 1-R), which you can read from the Maine BMV website or request by calling 207-624-9000. You'll need your renewal notice (which includes your renewal number) or your current license. Include a check or money order for $35 payable to "Treasurer, State of Maine."

Mail your completed form and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the BMV receives your process. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide on the form. If you need a Real ID or your address has changed, you cannot use mail renewal—you must go in person.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

Visit a Maine BMV office if you need a Real ID upgrade, your address has changed, your license is suspended or revoked, or you prefer to renew face-to-face. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If your address has changed, bring documents showing both your old and new addresses.

BMV branches are located in Augusta, Bangor, Lewiston, Portland, and Houlton. You can check wait times and book an appointment online through the Maine BMV website. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are faster. In-person renewal takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You'll pay $35 for a standard license or $50 for a Real ID at the time of renewal. Your new license is issued on the spot.

Real ID requirements and when you need one

A Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued identification. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID or a passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If your current Maine license is not Real ID-compliant, you should upgrade during renewal.

Real ID renewal requires an in-person visit to a BMV office. Bring your current license, proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of your Social Security number, and two documents proving your current address. The fee is $50 instead of $35. Your Real ID license will be issued when ready and marked with a gold star in the upper right corner.

What to do if your license is suspended or revoked

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license through online or mail renewal. You must visit a BMV office in person. Before you go, contact the Maine BMV to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it. Some suspensions require payment of fines, completion of a defensive driving course, or proof of insurance.

Once your suspension or revocation is cleared, you can renew in person at any BMV branch. Bring your current license, proof of the issue's resolution (such as a receipt for paid fines or a course completion certificate), and payment for the renewal fee. Processing happens on the spot, and you'll receive your new license when ready.

Renewing if your address has changed

If you've moved since your last license was issued, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must renew in person at a BMV office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment for the renewal fee. Some people also bring proof of their old address, though it is not required.

The BMV will update your address in their system and issue a new license with your current address. This happens when ready during your visit. If you move after renewing but before your new license arrives in the mail, contact the BMV to update your address so your license is mailed to the correct location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has already expired?

Yes. Maine allows renewal up to five years after expiration. However, if your license has been expired for more than five years, you must explore for a new license rather than renew. Contact the Maine BMV for the process process.

How long does it take to receive my renewed license by mail?

Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the BMV receives your process. Online renewal is faster—your license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. In-person renewal is when ready; you receive your license before you leave the office.

What if I lose my renewal notice?

You can still renew using your driver's license number instead of your renewal number. If you're renewing online or by mail, have your license and date of birth ready. If you've lost your license as well, contact the Maine BMV to request a replacement or new license.

Do I need to take a new photo for renewal?

For online and mail renewal, your existing photo is used. For in-person renewal, the BMV takes a new photo during your visit. If you prefer a new photo for online or mail renewal, you must renew in person instead.

What payment methods does Maine accept for license renewal?

Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. The BMV does not accept payment by phone or email.

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.