Permit vs. Driver’s License in Maine

1. What is the difference between a driver’s license and a permit in Maine?


A driver’s license is an official document that proves a person has permission to drive in the state of Maine and is typically obtained after completing a driver’s education course. A permit is a document that allows a person to learn to drive a vehicle in Maine before they are issued a driver’s license. It is typically obtained after passing a written test and is only valid for a certain period of time.

2. How old must a person be to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


In Maine, you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to obtain a driver’s license or permit.

3. What documents are required to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Maine, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. Proof of identity:
– Certified birth certificate
- Pasaporte válido
– Valid immigration document
– Valid out-of-state driver’s license or ID card
2. Proof of Social Security number:
– Social Security card
– W-2 form
– SSA 1099 form
3. Two proofs of Maine residency:
– Utility bill (less than 90 days old)
– Bank statement (less than 90 days old)
– Voter registration card
4. Five proofs of signature:
– Credit card
– High school diploma or GED certificate
– Car title/registration
– Lease agreement or mortgage statement
5. Vision test results from a licensed optometrist or an eye specialist in the state of Maine.

4. Is a permit required to drive in Maine?


Yes, a valid driver’s license issued by any U.S. state or territory is required to drive in Maine.

5. How long is a driver’s license valid for in Maine?


A driver’s license in Maine is valid for 4 years.

6. How long does it take to get a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


It typically takes a few weeks to get a driver’s license or permit in Maine. The exact time frame will depend on the type of license or permit you are applying for, as well as your personal circumstances.

7. What tests must be passed to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


To obtain a driver’s license or permit in Maine, applicants must pass a vision test, a written knowledge test, and a road test. Applicants must also present documents that prove their identity, Social Security number, and Maine residency. Applicants under the age of 18 must also provide a consent form signed by a parent or legal guardian.

8. What restrictions are placed on holders of a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


Holders of a driver’s license or permit in Maine must abide by state laws and regulations, including those that govern: driving under the influence (DUI), driving with a suspended license, restricted or limited access to roadways, vehicle registration, and seat belt use. They must also comply with speed limits, stopping at stop signs, yield signs, and traffic signals, and obey all other traffic laws. Additionally, all drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Finally, minors may be subject to additional restrictions such as nighttime driving curfews.

9. What are the fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


The fee for an original learner’s permit in Maine is $35. The fee for a Class C (non-commercial) driver’s license is $40. Applicants under 21 must pay a $5.50 fee for the Road and Traffic Safety Course if they wish to obtain a driver’s license before their 21st birthday.

10. Are there any additional requirements to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Maine for certain age groups?


Yes. In Maine, drivers under the age of 18 must have a valid Learner’s Permit for at least 12 consecutive months and have held the permit for at least six months prior to applying for a license. They must also complete a Driver Education Course, complete 40 hours of supervised driving with an adult over the age of 21, and pass the vision screening, written test, and road test before becoming eligible for a license.

11. Is there an age limit for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


Yes, the minimum age to obtain a driver’s license in Maine is 16 years old.

12. Are any special privileges given to holders of a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


Yes. Holders of a driver’s license or permit in Maine are allowed to vote, open a bank account, and obtain a passport.

13. What is the process for renewing a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


In order to renew a driver’s license or permit in Maine, the applicant must visit a local Bureau of Motor Vehicles office with their existing license or permit. They must also bring proof of identity, address, and Social Security number. The applicant will also need to pay the required fee for the renewal. Once all requirements are met, the applicant will be issued a new license or permit.

14. Are there any restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


Yes, there are some restrictions. Drivers under the age of 18 must complete a driver education course and have a school-issued Driver Education Permit before they can apply for a driver’s license or permit in Maine. Drivers under the age of 21 must have a learner’s permit for at least six months before they can apply for a license or permit.

15. Are there any additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in Maine?


No, there are no additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in Maine.

16. What are the penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in Maine?


In Maine, driving without a valid driver’s license or permit is a criminal offense. The penalties for this offense vary, but can include a fine of up to $500 and/or imprisonment for up to 6 months. In addition, your vehicle may be impounded and your license may be suspended.

17. Is there an age requirement for obtaining an instruction permit in Maine ?


Yes. In Maine, you must be at least 15 years old in order to obtain an instruction permit.

18. Are there any special considerations given to holders of an instruction permit in Maine ?


Yes. Holders of an instruction permit in Maine can operate a motor vehicle without a supervising driver, as long as they are accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a valid driver’s license for at least two years. Additionally, if the permit holder is under 18, they must complete 30 hours of driving practice with a supervising driver.

19. Can holders of an instruction permit drive outside of their home state with their instruction permit in Maine ?


No, holders of an instruction permit are not allowed to drive outside of their home state with their instruction permit in Maine.

20. Are there any restrictions on drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in Maine ?


Yes, drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in Maine must have a licensed adult over the age of 20 in the front seat with them at all times.