Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine

1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in Maine?


Maine has been approved to issue both Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) compliant with the requirements under the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. All Maine driver’s licenses, including those issued by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) are considered Real ID compliant. The EDL is an option for individuals who would like additional security benefits associated with a driver’s license.

2. Is Maine compliant with the Real ID Act?


Maine is currently not compliant with the Real ID Act. For this reason, Maine residents are not able to use their driver’s licenses for certain activities, such as boarding domestic flights.

3. Does Maine offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?


Yes, Maine offers a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program. The program is run by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles and allows residents to apply for a secure driver’s license or state ID card. The license or card is compliant with the new federal Real ID Act and also serves as an acceptable form of identification for domestic air travel and entering federal facilities. The Enhanced Driver’s License also serves as a valid passport for entry into Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and some Caribbean countries.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in Maine?


No, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Maine.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


To obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine, you must present documentation that verifies your identity, Social Security number, and proof of residency. The documents must be original or certified copies. Acceptable documents include a valid passport or passport card, a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization, a Social Security card, and two proofs of Maine residency (utility bills, bank statements, etc.).

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


The fee for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine is $60. This fee includes a $4 surcharge for the Maine Emergency Management Agency. In addition, there is an additional $2 fee to be paid when renewing your driver’s license.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in Maine?


A Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine is valid for eight years.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


Yes. To obtain a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine, you must provide proof of identity, U.S. citizenship or legal presence in the U.S., proof of Social Security number, two proofs of Maine residency, and payment for applicable fees. Acceptable documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of residence such as bills or leases.

9. Does Maine accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?


Yes, Maine does accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


No, only persons with valid US citizenship or permanent residency can obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Maine?


Yes, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License can be used as identification for domestic air travel in Maine.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


Yes, in order to renew a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine, the following documents must be presented at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles: proof of identity, proof of legal presence in the US, proof of your Social Security number (your SSN card or a W-2 form), two proofs of Maine residency (utility bills, mortgage or lease agreements, etc.), and payment for the renewal fee.

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


In order to apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine, you must visit a local Bureau of Motor Vehicles office and provide documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Maine residency. You will also need to provide documents that prove your legal name change, if applicable. You will also need to pass a vision test and pay the associated fees. For more information about applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine, please visit the Maine BMV website.

14. Does Maine have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?


Yes, Maine requires applicants to provide proof of residency and identity. Applicants must also provide documents that verify their Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form. Additionally, applicants must provide two documents that show their Maine address, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Maine?


Yes. Maine’s Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License are both approved forms of ID for international travel.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


Maine’s Enhanced Driver’s License is available for anyone 16 years of age and older. Residents must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a Real ID.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


No, a vision test is not required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


Yes, there is a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine. Applicants must wait up to 10 business days (two weeks) for their license to be issued.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine?


When applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine you can use cash, check, money order, or a credit/debit card.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Maine for military personnel and veterans?


Yes. The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers special considerations for military personnel and veterans when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. Active duty members and veterans of the United States Armed Forces who possess a valid Common Access Card (CAC) or Department of Defense Form 214 (DD214) can use it as proof of identity when applying. Additionally, veterans can apply for free identification cards by presenting a DD214 and a copy of their DD214 to a BMV office.