Getting a Maine learner's permit
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Department of the Secretary of State page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
If you are under 18, complete an approved driver education course first.
Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Fill out the Learner's Permit application from the BMV Forms and Applications page.
Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Bring or mail the application with the $35 fee, two IDs, proof of Maine residency, your driver ed certificate and birth certificate if required.
Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Wait for BMV to mail your written test appointment, then study the Motorist Handbook and Study Guide.
Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026At the appointment, take the free vision screening and pass the 30-question written test with at least 24 correct.
Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Minimum age for a learner's permit
- 15.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Parent or guardian
- Applicants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to sign the application and receive the license.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit validity
- 2 years and not renewable; after it expires you reapply and retake the vision screening and written exam. Logged hours carry over.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit restrictions
- Must drive with a licensed driver over age 20 who has held a license for at least two years; no mobile phone use while driving on a permit.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long to hold the permit
- Applicants under 21 must hold the permit 6 months before applying for a road test; 21 and older do not have to wait.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Written test questions
- 30 questions on rules of the road, signs, pedestrian and bicycle safety, OUI laws and distracted driving.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Passing score
- At least 24 of 30 correct (80%).Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Written test languages
- The digital test is offered in Arabic, Canadian French, English, French, Lingala, Portuguese, Somali, Spanish and Swahili; since Feb. 1, 2026 BMV provides a free interpreter for other languages (scheduling may take 4+ weeks).Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Documents for a permit
- Learner's permit application, $35 fee, two forms of ID (one with date of birth, one with signature), proof of Maine residency, driver ed certificate (under 18) and birth certificate (under 23). Originals must be shown at the exam.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- After failing the road test
- The examiner explains what to practice and gives you a receipt to mail in to request your next test. No minimum wait is stated.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Appointments
- Not required for renewals, including REAL ID; all 13 branches accept walk-ins, and appointments can be booked online.Source: maine.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Maine guide
Official Maine links
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