Getting your Maine learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can say who is eligible for a Maine learner's permit.
• You can gather the documents and fee the BMV asks for.
• You can explain how the BMV books your written test.
• You can describe the vision screening and your alternative to it.
• You can follow the rules that apply once you hold a permit.

What you need to know and understand

• You must be at least 15. If you are 15 to 17 you must complete an approved driver education course before applying.
• The Class C permit examination fee is $35.
• Applicants under 18 need a parent or legal guardian to sign the application.
• A birth certificate is required if you are under 23. A copy with the issuing agency's embossed seal is accepted, but a notarized copy is not.
• The permit is valid for 2 years and cannot be renewed.
• You must carry the permit whenever you drive.

What to send the BMV

You can take the paperwork to a BMV branch office or mail it to the Examination Section in Augusta. You may mail copies, but you must show the originals at your exam. Some approved driver education schools can also collect your application and fee, so ask yours.

• A completed learner's permit application form (from the BMV forms page).
• The $35 fee.
• Two forms of identification, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.
• Proof of Maine residency, such as a utility bill or pay stub. A post office box is not enough.
• Your driver education completion certificate if you are under 18.
• A birth certificate if you are under 23.

From application to permit

1. The BMV processes your application and schedules a written test at the branch nearest your mailing address.
2. Your appointment notice arrives by mail, usually within three weeks. You can reschedule without a penalty fee up to 48 hours before.
3. At the appointment you get a free vision screening that checks how clearly you see and your side vision. You can instead bring an eye exam form completed by your own doctor.
4. You take the 30-question knowledge test.
5. Once you pass, you are issued your learner's permit.

Rules while you hold a permit

Always drive with a licensed supervisor who is at least 20, has held a license for at least 2 years, sits beside you and is licensed for the vehicle. Driving alone on a permit can lead to a 30-day suspension.

Do not use a phone or handheld device while driving, even at a red light. Permit holders may not use hands-free calling either. If your permit expires, you must reapply and retake the vision and written tests, but your logged practice hours carry over.

Common mistakes

• Bringing a notarized copy of a birth certificate. It must be the original or a copy with the issuing agency's embossed seal.
• Applying at 15 before finishing driver education. The BMV will not accept it.
• Forgetting proof of residency or using a P.O. box address.
• Driving to the test alone or leaving the permit at home once you have it.

Test yourself: Getting your Maine learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Maine Permit Test
• Learning to Drive in Maine
• Maine 70 Hour Driving Log