What to Bring to the Maine DMV for Your Permit Test
Don't get sent home. Here's the complete checklist — documents, fees, forms, and what to leave at home.
Before You Go
- →Schedule an appointment online to skip the long lines
- →Download and fill out the MV-1 form ahead of time (but don't sign it)
- →Call ahead to confirm if your specific office accepts credit cards
- →Have your parent/guardian ready to go with you
- →Bring your study guide or practice test app on your phone (for the waiting room, not the office)
- →Double-check that your residency documents have your current address
- →Arrive 15 minutes early to check in
Required Documents
Proof of Identity (Primary Document)
- ✓U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- ✓Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- ✓Permanent Resident Card
- ✓Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization
- ✓Valid Maine Driver License or ID Card (if renewing)
Bring the original document only; Maine does not accept photocopies or digital images on your phone for identity proof.
Proof of Social Security Number
- ✓Social Security Card
- ✓W-2 Form with full SSN
- ✓Pay stub with full SSN
- ✓SSA-1099 Form
- ✓Non-SSA-1099 Form
If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 or pay stub showing your full number. If you have never been issued an SSN, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are ineligible.
Proof of Maine Residency
Bring 2 of these:
- ✓Utility bill (electric, water, gas, landline phone) in parent's name
- ✓Bank statement
- ✓Mortgage or lease agreement
- ✓School report card or transcript with home address
- ✓Maine vehicle registration or title
Maine requires two different documents to prove residency if you are applying for a REAL ID. If you are under 18, your parent's documents usually count if you live with them.
Parental / Guardian Consent (applicants under 18)
- ✓Parent or legal guardian must sign the application in person at the BMV office
- ✓Parent must present their own valid photo ID
- ✓Legal guardians must bring court documents proving guardianship
- ✓If parents are divorced, the custodial parent must sign unless court orders state otherwise
- ✓Foster parents must bring specific agency documentation
The parent or guardian MUST be physically present with you when you apply. They cannot sign the form at home and mail it in.
Fees & Payment
$35
This fee covers the learner's permit application and testing. If you fail the written test, there is a small fee to retake it (usually $10-$15 depending on the location).
Accepted payment:
Forms
Application for Driver's License or ID Card (Form MV-1)
Available at: Maine BMV website or in-person at any BMV office
Do not sign the form until you are standing in front of the BMV clerk; they need to watch you sign it.
What NOT to Bring
- ✗Your cell phone (turn it off or leave it in the car)
- ✗Large bags or backpacks (storage is limited)
- ✗Friends or siblings who aren't applying (they can't wait inside)
- ✗Food or drinks
- ✗Your own pen (use the one provided)
- ✗Photocopies of documents (they won't be accepted)
- ✗Pets (service animals only)
At the Office
- →The written test is computer-based and takes about 30 minutes
- →You need 20 out of 25 correct to pass (80%)
- →If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day for a small fee
- →You will get a temporary paper permit immediately; the plastic card arrives by mail in 2-3 weeks
- →Bring your learner's permit with you every time you drive (even if you have the temporary paper one)
Official Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles info: www.maine.gov/sos/bmv
Take the Free Maine Practice Quiz →