Passing the tests is only the start. Your license has an expiration date, the BMV must always have your current name and address, and the Secretary of State can call you back for testing at any time.
The license tests:
- Written test: traffic laws, regulations, driving skills, vehicle handling and highway signs
- The written test places special emphasis on Maine's drinking and driving laws
- Vision screening: visual acuity (how clearly you see) and peripheral (side) vision
- Road test: an examiner judges vehicle control and how you react to road users, signs and signals
Know the rule
The road test is not given until all other tests have been passed. You will not be asked to do anything extraordinary or illegal.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Who must take the examinations:
- Anyone applying for an initial license takes all examinations
- Anyone changing license classification takes all required examinations
- Motorcycle, bus and school bus drivers take special tests
- Applicants with a valid out-of-state license may have the written and road tests waived
Know the rule
Transferring an out-of-state license: you must be at least 16, you may need proof of driver education if you're 16 or 17, and you surrender the out-of-state license when the Maine license is issued.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Know the rule
A minor's application must be signed by a parent or legal guardian with custody, or by a spouse who is 18 or older. That signer may later file a notarized written request to have the minor's license or permit suspended.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Know the rule
Any misstatement on a license application brings immediate revocation of your license and privilege to drive in Maine, and possible court action.
Handbook p. 10 ↗How long a picture license is valid
| Your age | Valid until |
|---|---|
| Under 65 | Your 6th birthday after the date of issue |
| 65 or older | Your 4th birthday after the date of issue |
Your license rules:
- Carry your license at all times when driving
- Show it to any police officer who asks to see it
- Never lend your license to anyone; it is illegal
- Altering a license can cost you the license
- If it is lost or destroyed, notify the BMV and apply for a duplicate
- Under 18? A parent or guardian must come with you to sign for the picture license
Before expiration, when the BMV mails a renewal notice to your address on file
Handbook p. 11 ↗Time you have to tell the BMV about a change of name or address
Handbook p. 11 ↗Know the rule
The Secretary of State may restrict your license (for example, requiring corrective lenses, or limiting time of day or location), call you in for an exam or hearing at any time, and require a doctor's statement.
Handbook p. 12 ↗The examiner may refuse to give the road test if:
- The vehicle fails Maine inspection criteria (for example, an expired inspection sticker)
- Front seats aren't available for the examiner or aren't secured to the floor
- The vehicle isn't equipped for the weather, such as snow treads or chains
- The glove compartment isn't properly secured
- You refuse to remove pets from the vehicle
Put it into practice
You move across town in March. Update the BMV by April: Maine law gives you 30 days. If you don't, your renewal notice, mailed about 45 days before expiration, goes to your old address, and driving on an expired license is unlawful.