Maine car registration renews every two years, and you can renew by mail, online, or in person at your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles office

Maine registration is valid for two years from the date it was issued. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 30 days before your current registration expires—this notice contains your renewal fee and instructions. You have three ways to renew: online through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website, by mail using the renewal notice, or in person at any BMV office. The online method is fastest and requires your vehicle identification number (VIN), current registration number, and a valid payment method.

Your registration sticker goes on your windshield, and driving with an expired registration is a violation that can result in a fine. Maine does not require a vehicle inspection as part of registration renewal, though you must have a valid inspection if your vehicle is subject to inspection requirements under state law. If you've moved, changed your name, or made changes to vehicle ownership, you'll need to update your registration information when you renew.

Key Takeaways

  • Maine registration lasts two years, and you'll receive a renewal notice about 30 days before expiration.
  • You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles office.
  • Online renewal is the fastest option and requires your VIN, registration number, and a payment method.
  • Driving with expired registration is a violation; keep your sticker visible on your windshield.
  • If you've moved or changed your name, update your information during renewal.

Renewing Online Through the Maine BMV Website

Online renewal is available through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website and takes about 10 minutes. You'll need your current registration number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and a credit or debit card. The system will calculate your renewal fee based on your vehicle's weight and type, show you the total amount due, and process payment when ready. Once approved, you can print your temporary registration or have your new sticker mailed to you.

Your new registration sticker will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before the sticker arrives, print the temporary registration from the confirmation page and keep it in your vehicle. Online renewal is open 24 hours a day, so you can renew at any time that's convenient for you. If the system rejects your payment or you encounter an error, you can try again or contact the BMV for help.

Renewing by Mail Using Your Renewal Notice

If you prefer to renew by mail, use the renewal notice you received from the BMV. Fill out the form, include your payment (check or money order), and mail it to the address shown on the notice. Include your current registration card with your mailed renewal. The BMV processes mail renewals within 10 to 15 business days of receipt, though processing time can vary depending on mail delivery and office volume.

Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your registration expires to avoid driving with an expired registration. Keep a copy of your renewal notice and payment confirmation for your records. If you lose your renewal notice, you can request a duplicate by calling the BMV or visiting their website. Mail renewal is useful if you don't have internet access or prefer not to pay online, but it takes longer than online renewal.

Renewing in Person at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles Office

You can renew your registration at any BMV office in Maine during business hours. Bring your current registration card, proof of vehicle inspection (if required), and a valid payment method—cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The office will verify your information, calculate your fee, process your payment, and issue your new sticker on the spot. In-person renewal typically takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

BMV offices are located in most towns and cities across Maine. You can find the office nearest you and check their hours on the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website. Going in person is useful if you need to update your address, change vehicle information, or have questions about your registration. If you have a complex situation—such as a recent ownership change or a vehicle with a lien—the staff can help you sort it out when ready rather than having to mail documents back and forth.

What You Need to Renew Your Registration

For any renewal method, you'll need your current registration card or the renewal notice the BMV sent you. You'll also need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which appears on your registration card, your vehicle's dashboard, and your title. If you're renewing online or by mail, have a valid payment method ready—credit card, debit card, or check. If you're renewing in person, bring your current registration card and a payment method.

If your vehicle requires an inspection, you must have a current inspection sticker before you renew. Maine requires inspections for most passenger vehicles, though some older or specially registered vehicles are exempt. Your inspection sticker shows the month and year it expires. If your inspection has expired or will expire before your new registration takes effect, get a new inspection before you renew your registration. If you've moved to a new address, have your new address ready when you renew.

Registration Fees and What Affects the Cost

Maine registration fees are based on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), not its actual weight. The GVWR is listed on your vehicle's door jamb or in your owner's manual. Passenger cars typically cost between $35 and $50 for a two-year registration, though the exact amount depends on weight. Trucks, vans, and heavier vehicles cost more. Trailers, motorcycles, and specialty vehicles have different fee structures.

If you own an electric vehicle, you may be may be able to access for a reduced registration fee under Maine's EV incentive program. Check the BMV website or ask when you renew to see if your vehicle qualifies. If you're renewing late—after your registration has already expired—you may owe a late fee in addition to your regular renewal fee. The renewal notice you receive will show your exact fee before you pay, so you'll know the total cost upfront.

If Your Registration Expires or You Miss the Renewal Date

If your registration expires before you renew, you cannot legally drive your vehicle on public roads in Maine. Driving with an expired registration is a traffic violation that can result in a fine. If you're pulled over, the officer will issue a citation. The fine amount varies but can be substantial, and you may also face additional penalties if you're involved in an accident while driving with expired registration.

If you realize your registration has expired, renew it when ready using any of the three methods. Online renewal is the fastest option if you need to drive right away. If you renew online, print your temporary registration and keep it in your vehicle until your new sticker arrives. If you've been driving with an expired registration and received a citation, you can still renew your registration, but the citation must be handled separately through the court system. Contact the court listed on your citation for information about paying the fine or contesting it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration if my vehicle has a lien on it?

Yes, you can renew your registration even if your vehicle has a lien. The lien holder's name may appear on your registration card, but that does not prevent you from renewing. Renew using any of the three methods—online, by mail, or in person. If you're unsure whether a lien affects your renewal, contact the BMV before you renew.

What happens if I move to a different state while my Maine registration is still valid?

You must register your vehicle in your new state within a certain timeframe, usually 30 to 60 days depending on that state's rules. You do not need to renew your Maine registration if you're moving out of state. Contact your new state's motor vehicle department to learn about their registration requirements and fees.

Can I renew my registration if my inspection sticker has expired?

No, your inspection must be current before you renew your registration. Get a new inspection at any authorized inspection station in Maine, then renew your registration. The inspection sticker is valid for one year, so make sure it won't expire before your new two-year registration takes effect.

How do I renew if I lost my renewal notice?

You can still renew online or in person without the renewal notice. Online, enter your registration number and VIN. In person, bring your registration card and ID to any BMV office. If you want to renew by mail, call the BMV to request a duplicate renewal notice before you mail your payment.

Do I need to renew my registration if I sell my vehicle?

No, you do not renew a registration for a vehicle you no longer own. When you sell your vehicle, notify the BMV of the sale and transfer the registration to the new owner. The new owner is responsible for renewing the registration when it expires. If you buy a used vehicle, you'll need to register it in your name rather than renewing an existing registration.