Maine requires registration for most ATVs, and you'll handle it through the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife rather than the Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Any ATV you operate on Maine public land or roads must be registered with the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (DIFW). This is separate from car registration — ATVs don't go through the standard vehicle registration system. You'll need proof of ownership, a completed process form, and payment of the registration fee, which varies based on the ATV's engine size and your residency status.
The registration process takes about two weeks by mail, though you can also register in person at any DIFW regional office. Once approved, you'll receive a registration certificate and decals to display on your ATV. Registration is valid for one year from the date of issue, and you'll need to renew it annually if you continue to operate the machine.
Key Takeaways
- Maine ATVs register through the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, not the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and registration fees depend on engine size and whether you're a resident.
- You'll need proof of ownership (title, bill of sale, or manufacturer's statement), a completed process form, and payment before DIFW will issue your registration certificate and decals.
- Mail-in registration typically takes about two weeks; in-person registration at a DIFW regional office is faster if you need it sooner.
- Registration is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed annually if you plan to operate the ATV on public land or roads in Maine.
What documents you need to bring or send
Start with proof of ownership. If you bought the ATV new, you'll have a manufacturer's statement of origin. If you bought it used, a bill of sale signed by the seller works, or the previous registration certificate if the ATV was already registered in Maine. A title document (if one exists for your machine) also counts. DIFW will ask for the ATV's vehicle identification number (VIN), which you'll find on the frame — usually near the steering column or on the left side of the frame.
You'll also need a completed process for ATV Registration form, available on the DIFW website or at any regional office. The form asks for your name, address, the ATV's make and model, engine size, and VIN. If you're registering someone else's ATV (for example, as a gift), you'll need the owner's signature on the process. Finally, bring payment — cash, check, or money order. DIFW does not accept credit cards by mail, though some regional offices may accept them in person.
Registration fees by engine size and residency
| Engine Size | Maine Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Under 90cc | $19 | $29 |
| 90cc to 250cc | $26 | $36 |
| Over 250cc | $33 | $43 |
Fees are based on your residency status and the ATV's engine displacement in cubic centimeters (cc). You can find the engine size in your ATV's manual or on the manufacturer's label on the machine itself. Non-residents pay a higher fee than Maine residents. If you're unsure of your engine size, call a DIFW regional office and provide your ATV's make and model — they can look it up for you.
How to register by mail
Mail your completed process form, proof of ownership, and payment to the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, ATV Registration, 41 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want DIFW to return your proof of ownership documents. Processing takes about two weeks from the date DIFW receives your packet.
Keep a copy of everything you send. If your registration doesn't arrive within three weeks, call the DIFW registration office at 207-287-8000 to confirm they received your process. They can tell you the status and whether they need any additional information from you.
In-person registration at a DIFW regional office
If you want to register faster, visit one of Maine's seven DIFW regional offices with your documents and payment. Bring your proof of ownership, completed process form, and the ATV itself (or at least be prepared to provide the VIN and engine size). Staff can process your registration on the spot, and you'll leave with your certificate and decals the same day.
Regional offices are located in Bangor, Gray, Greenville, Houlton, Rangeley, and two in the southern part of the state. Hours vary by location, so check the DIFW website or call ahead before you visit. Some offices have limited hours on certain days, and a few close for lunch.
Renewal and what happens if you let it lapse
Your registration is valid for one calendar year from the date of issue. DIFW does not send renewal notices by mail, so it's your responsibility to track when your registration expires. You can renew by mail or in person using the same process as initial registration — submit the renewal process form, proof of ownership, and the renewal fee.
Operating an unregistered ATV on Maine public land or roads is illegal and can result in a fine. If your registration has lapsed, renew it before you ride. If you've lost your registration certificate or decals, contact DIFW to request a replacement — there is a small fee for duplicates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my ATV if I only ride it on private land?
No. Registration is required only if you operate the ATV on public roads, public land, or land you don't own. If you ride exclusively on your own property, registration is not required. However, many riders register anyway for liability protection and to have an official record of ownership.
What if my ATV doesn't have a VIN?
Older ATVs sometimes lack a VIN. Contact DIFW directly with your ATV's make, model, and year — they can work with you on registration. You may need to provide additional proof of ownership or have the machine inspected by a DIFW officer.
Can I register an ATV that's titled in someone else's name?
Yes, but the person whose name is on the title must sign the process form. If you're buying an ATV from someone, have them sign the bill of sale or title transfer before you submit your registration. DIFW will not process an process without the owner's signature.
How long does registration take if I mail it in?
Expect about two weeks from the date DIFW receives your packet. Processing time can be longer during peak seasons (spring and early summer). If you need it faster, register in person at a regional office instead.
What if I move to a different state — do I need to cancel my Maine registration?
You don't have to formally cancel it, but you should register your ATV in your new state if you plan to ride there. Maine registration is valid only in Maine. If you move back to Maine later, you can use your old registration if it hasn't expired, or register again if it has.