What Maine requires on your plate and how to order one

Maine issues standard passenger plates with the state name, a lobster graphic, and a registration number. Your plate must be visible from the front and back of your vehicle, with characters at least 3 inches tall. When you register a new vehicle in Maine, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) assigns you a plate number automatically — you do not choose it unless you request a vanity plate, which costs extra and takes longer to process.

Standard Maine plates are valid for the life of your vehicle registration, which renews every two years. When you renew your registration, you keep the same plate unless it is damaged or you request a replacement. If your plate is lost, stolen, or unreadable, you can request a duplicate from the BMV for a fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Maine plates are issued automatically when you register a vehicle, and you keep the same plate for the life of your registration unless it is damaged or lost.
  • Vehicle registration renews every two years in Maine, and your plate renewal happens at the same time as your registration renewal.
  • Vanity plates are available but cost more than standard plates and require a separate request through the BMV.
  • You can order a duplicate plate if yours is damaged, lost, or stolen by visiting a BMV office or submitting a request by mail.
  • Maine requires plates to be visible and readable from both the front and back of your vehicle at all times.

How to register a vehicle and receive your first plate

When you buy a vehicle in Maine, you must register it with the BMV within 10 days. Bring your proof of ownership (title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and a completed process for Registration (Form MV-3). You will also need a Maine driver's license or ID and proof of residency if your address is not on your license.

The BMV will assign you a plate number and issue your registration certificate. Your plate will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. Until it arrives, you can drive with a temporary registration document that the BMV provides at the time of registration. Display this temporary document in your rear window so it is visible from outside the vehicle.

Renewing your registration and plate every two years

Maine registration expires on your birthday in the year shown on your certificate. You can renew starting 30 days before your expiration date. The BMV sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before expiration, but you are responsible for renewing on time even if you do not receive the notice.

You can renew online through the Maine BMV website if your vehicle has no outstanding violations or liens. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. If you renew by mail or in person, bring your renewal notice, proof of insurance, and a check or money order. Your new registration certificate will be mailed to you, and you keep your existing plate unless you request a replacement.

Ordering a vanity plate with a custom message

Maine vanity plates let you choose up to seven characters — letters, numbers, or a mix. You cannot use spaces, and the plate must not be obscene or offensive. The BMV reviews all vanity plate requests and can reject ones that violate these rules.

To request a vanity plate, submit Form MV-3VR (Vanity Registration Request) to the BMV along with your registration paperwork. Vanity plates cost more than standard plates and take four to six weeks to arrive. If your requested combination is already taken, the BMV will suggest alternatives. You can also check availability on the Maine BMV website before you submit your request.

Getting a replacement plate if yours is damaged or lost

If your plate is damaged, faded, or unreadable, you can request a duplicate from any BMV office. Bring your registration certificate and a form of ID. The replacement plate will have the same number as your original and costs a set fee. Duplicates are usually ready within one to two weeks.

If your plate is stolen, report the theft to local police and get a report number. Bring the police report to the BMV along with your registration certificate. The BMV will issue you a new plate with a different number to prevent misuse of your original plate number. This process also takes one to two weeks.

Maine's special and commemorative plate options

Beyond vanity plates, Maine offers specialty plates that support specific causes or organizations. These include plates for veterans, conservation efforts, and various professional or hobby groups. Each specialty plate costs more than a standard plate, and some require proof of membership or status (such as military service).

You can view all available specialty plates on the Maine BMV website. To order one, submit the appropriate process form along with your registration paperwork and proof of may be able to access if required. Processing time varies by plate type but usually takes four to six weeks. You can switch back to a standard plate at any time during your registration period.

What to do if your plate is unreadable or obscured

Maine law requires both front and back plates to be clearly visible and readable from at least 50 feet away. You cannot cover your plate with a frame, tint, or any material that makes it harder to read. Mud, snow, or debris that obscures your plate must be cleaned off regularly. Police can stop you for an obscured plate and issue a citation.

If your plate becomes faded or the characters are no longer clear, request a duplicate from the BMV. If a frame or cover is blocking your plate, remove it. If you are cited for an obscured plate, you can show proof that you have since corrected the problem, which may result in the citation being dismissed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my Maine plate if I move out of state?

No. When you move, you must register your vehicle in your new state within the timeframe that state requires, usually 30 to 60 days. Your Maine plate becomes invalid once you establish residency elsewhere. You will need to surrender it and register with your new state's motor vehicle agency.

What happens if I let my registration expire?

Driving with an expired registration is illegal in Maine. You can be stopped and cited. If your registration has been expired for more than a few months, you may need to pass a vehicle inspection before the BMV will renew it. Renew as soon as possible to avoid fines and the risk of having your vehicle impounded.

How much does a Maine license plate cost?

Standard plate fees vary based on vehicle type and weight. Vanity plates cost more than standard plates. The BMV website lists current fees, or you can call your local BMV office. Fees change periodically, so check the official BMV site for the most current pricing.

Can I transfer my plate to a different vehicle?

No. Each plate is tied to a specific vehicle registration. When you sell or trade in your vehicle, the plate stays with that registration and cannot be transferred. Your new vehicle will receive a new plate number when you register it.

What if I never received my plate in the mail?

Contact the Maine BMV with your registration number and vehicle information. They can check the status of your plate and reissue it if it was lost in the mail. Bring your registration certificate to a BMV office, or call the BMV to request a replacement by mail.