Getting or renewing a driver’s license in Maine involves various costs that depend on your age, license type, and specific needs. To make the process transparent, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of the complete 2025 fee schedule. Here, you will find clear information on written test fees, costs for standard and REAL ID licenses, senior discounts, and the specific charges for transferring a license from out-of-state, ensuring you have all the financial details you need for a successful trip to the BMV.
| Service / License Type | Description / Details | Cost |
| Examination Fees | ||
| Class C & Motorcycle Written Test | For passenger vehicle and motorcycle learner’s permits. | $35 |
| Commercial (CDL) Written Test | For Class A, B, or C commercial licenses. | $70 |
| New License & Renewal Fees: Under Age 65 | ||
| Standard Class C License | Valid for 6 years. | $30 |
| REAL ID Class C License | Valid for 6 years. Meets federal ID requirements. | $55 |
| Standard Commercial License (CDL) | Valid for 5 years. | $34 |
| REAL ID Commercial License (CDL) | Valid for 5 years. Meets federal ID requirements. | $59 |
| New License & Renewal Fees: Age 65 and Older | ||
| Standard Class C License | Valid for 4 years. | $20 |
| REAL ID Class C License | Valid for 4 years. Meets federal ID requirements. | $40 |
| Standard Commercial License (CDL) | Valid for 4 years. | $27 |
| REAL ID Commercial License (CDL) | Valid for 4 years. Meets federal ID requirements. | $47 |
| Out-of-State License Transfer Fees | ||
| Class C (Passenger) Transfer | $35 Application Fee + $30 License Fee | $65 Total |
| Motorcycle License Transfer | Application fee for converting a motorcycle endorsement. | $35 (+ standard license fees) |
| Commercial (CDL) Transfer | $70 Application Fee + $34 License Fee | $104+ (+ endorsement fees) |
| Other Fees & Services | ||
| Add Endorsement | For adding a motorcycle, school bus, etc., qualification. | $20 per endorsement |
| License Replacement | For a lost, stolen, or damaged license. | Contact BMV for current fee |
Detailed Fee Breakdown
Fees are typically paid in two parts: the examination fee for your test and the license fee for the physical card.
1. Examination Fees
This fee covers your knowledge test and must be paid whether you pass or fail.
- Class C (Passenger Car) & Motorcycle Written Test: $35
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Written Test: $70
- Each Additional Endorsement (e.g., Hazmat, School Bus): $20
Important Note: If you need to retake a test, you must pay the examination fee again.
2. License Issuance & Renewal Fees
After passing your tests, you’ll pay a separate fee for your license. The cost depends on your age and whether you choose a Standard ID or a REAL ID.
For Drivers Under Age 65
- Standard License (6-Year): $30
- REAL ID License (6-Year): $55
- Commercial License (CDL) (5-Year Standard): $34
- Commercial License (CDL) (5-Year REAL ID): $59
For Drivers Age 65 and Older
Seniors receive discounted rates for shorter, 4-year license terms.
- Standard License (4-Year): $20
- REAL ID License (4-Year): $40
- Commercial License (CDL) (4-Year Standard): $27
- Commercial License (CDL) (4-Year REAL ID): $47
REAL ID vs. Standard License: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between these two cards is crucial.
- Standard License: A basic driving license. It’s cheaper but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights after the May 7, 2025, deadline.
- REAL ID: Costs an additional $25. It meets federal security standards and will be required for air travel and entry into secure federal facilities. For most people, the extra $25 is a worthwhile investment.
Other Important Fees & Services
Out-of-State License Transfer Fees
If you’re moving to Maine with a valid license from another state, the fee structure includes both an application fee and a license fee.
- Converting a Class C (Passenger) License:
- $35 Application Fee + $30 License Fee = $65 Total
- Converting a Motorcycle License:
- A $35 application fee is required. This is in addition to the standard license fees if you are converting your primary driver’s license.
- Converting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL):
- $70 Application Fee + $34 License Fee = $104 (plus $20 for each endorsement you transfer).
License Replacement & Endorsements
- License Replacement: For a lost, stolen, or damaged license, contact your local BMV office for the current replacement fee and procedure.
- Adding Endorsements: Adding a new qualification (like for a motorcycle) to an existing license costs $20 per endorsement.
Planning Your BMV Visit: FAQs & Tips
What Payment Methods Are Accepted?
The Maine BMV accepts:
- Cash
- Check (payable to “Secretary of State”)
- Money Order
- Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover)
- Note: American Express is not accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Initial license and transfer fees must be paid in person. Some renewal services may be available online through the official BMV website.
The BMV cannot issue a license without full payment. Always confirm fees on the official website before you go.
The fee structure can be updated. Always trust the official Maine BMV website as the most current source of information.
For the latest updates, document requirements, or to schedule an appointment, please visit the Maine Secretary of State website or call 207-624-9000.
Let’s be honest, a trip to the BMV can be a headache, especially when you’re not sure what it’ll cost. That’s why we’ve sorted through the rules to give you a simple breakdown of Maine’s 2025 fees. Whether you’re a new teen driver, just moved to Maine, or it’s simply time to renew, you’ll find the numbers you need right here in this guide. Our goal is to help you walk in prepared and avoid any surprises at the counter.
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