How to Get Your Maine Learner's Permit (BMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Learner's Permit through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Office of the Secretary of State (BMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Learner's Permit in Maine, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Office of the Secretary of State (BMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Maine's BMV knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving — including moose collisions and winter driving — from the Maine Motorist Handbook. Teens log 70 hours of supervised practice and face a strict first-270-days passenger restriction.
Documents to bring to the BMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Two forms of identification: one showing your date of birth and one bearing your written signature; applicants under 23 must present a birth certificate.
- Proof of your Social Security number, or, if you are not eligible for one, an unexpired immigration document such as an I-94.
- Proof of Maine residency (a document showing your name and current Maine address).
- Parental or legal guardian consent for applicants under 18: a parent or legal guardian must accompany you and sign the license application.
- A driver education completion certificate is required for applicants under 18 who complete an approved course.
The knowledge test
In Maine, the knowledge test is taken in person. A multiple-choice knowledge exam covering Maine traffic laws and safe-driving rules, taken in person at a BMV branch office.
Rehearse with our free Maine practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Maine Practice Test →Fees
The BMV charges $35 for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the BMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Maine uses a graduated licensing system for drivers under 18. After earning an intermediate license, for the first 270 days you may not carry passengers other than immediate family members unless a qualifying licensed adult is with you, and you may not drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
Maine permit FAQ
How many questions is the Maine permit test?
The BMV knowledge test has about 30 questions, and you need 24 of 30 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Maine permit test online?
In Maine, the knowledge test is taken in person. A multiple-choice knowledge exam covering Maine traffic laws and safe-driving rules, taken in person at a BMV branch office.
What do I need to bring to the BMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Maine residency, plus anything required for a Learner's Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Maine permit?
You can apply for a Learner's Permit at 15 in Maine, provided you meet the BMV's other requirements.
How much does a Maine permit cost?
The BMV charges $35 for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the BMV.
What happens if I fail the Maine permit test?
After applying, you generally have up to three attempts within 90 days to pass the written test. A retake may be permitted the same day or after a short wait at the examiner's discretion, and a re-examination fee may apply.
Official sources: www.maine.gov · www.maine.gov