Pine Tree State Driver: Your Complete Guide to a Maine Driver's License

Earning a driver's license in the Pine Tree State is a major rite of passage, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the rocky coast to the northern woods. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Maine's Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the BMV confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Under 18): The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Maine has a GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: Start with Driver's Education

The journey in Maine begins with driver education. This is a mandatory first step for all applicants under 18.

• Eligibility: You must be at least 15 years old to enroll in a state-approved driver education course.
• Course Requirements: The course must include 30 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor. Upon completion, you will receive an official completion certificate.

Step 2: The Learner's Permit

Once you've completed your driver's ed course, you can apply for your learner's permit.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 15 years old and have completed driver's ed.

How to get your Learner's Permit:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the BMV, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), your Social Security card, and two proofs of Maine residency. This is a crucial step for getting a REAL ID.
2. Visit a BMV Branch: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents, including your driver's ed completion certificate.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to provide written consent.
   • Pay the required permit fee.
   • Pass a vision screening.
3. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a written test based on the "Maine Motorist Handbook and Study Guide." The test covers Maine traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

Rules of the Road with a Learner's Permit:

• You must hold the permit for a minimum of six months before you can apply for a road test.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 20 years old, has held their license for at least two years, and is seated in the front passenger seat.
• You must log 70 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. This must be documented and certified by your parent or guardian.

Step 3: The Intermediate License

After holding your permit for six months and logging your practice hours, you are eligible for an intermediate license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years old.
• You must have held your learner's permit for at least six months, conviction-free.

How to get your Intermediate License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test). Once you pass, you will be issued your intermediate license.

GDL Restrictions on an Intermediate License:

• Passenger Restrictions: You are not permitted to have any passengers other than immediate family members unless accompanied by a supervising driver.
• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 12:00 a.m. (midnight) and 5 a.m.
• Cell Phone Ban: You are prohibited from using a mobile phone while driving.

These restrictions remain in place until you have held the intermediate license for 270 days.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Maine license, the process is more direct. Driver's education is not required.

1. Visit a BMV Branch: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID.
2. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a learner's permit.
3. Practice Driving: There is no minimum holding period for an adult permit. You can schedule your road test as soon as you feel competent.
4. Take the Road Test: Once you pass the driving test, you'll be issued your full license.

New to Maine? Transferring Your License

If you move to Maine and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Maine license within 30 days of establishing residency.

• Make an appointment at a BMV branch.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in the Pine Tree State.