In Maine, the cost of your license depends on three factors: your age (under/over 65), your choice of ID (Standard vs. REAL ID), and whether you are a new applicant or transferring from another state.
Use this guide to determine the exact check amount to write before you visit the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Quick Summary: The Most Common Fees
- Standard Renewal (Class C): $30.00
- REAL ID Renewal (Class C): $55.00
- Learner’s Permit Test: $35.00
- Duplicate License (Lost Card): $5.00
Examination Fees (Permits & Testing)
You must pay these fees to take the written or road test. They are non-refundable, even if you fail.
| Service | Cost | Notes |
| Class C (Car) Written Test | $35.00 | Includes permit & first road test. |
| Motorcycle Written Test | $35.00 | Includes permit & first road test. |
| CDL Written Test | $70.00 | Commercial Class A, B, or C. |
| Endorsement Exam | $20.00 | Hazmat, Bus, School Bus, etc. |
| Re-Examination | $35.00 | If you fail the road test and need to retry. |
Important: The $35 fee covers your Permit and your Road Test appointment. You do not pay again when you schedule the driving test unless you miss your appointment or fail.
New License & Renewal Fees
Once you pass your test (or if you are renewing), you pay the “License Fee.”
- Standard: Valid for driving but not for federal flights after May 7, 2025.
- REAL ID: Valid for federal flights and military bases (marked with a gold star).
Drivers Under Age 65 (6-Year License)
| License Type | Standard Cost | REAL ID Cost |
| Class C (Passenger) | $30.00 | $55.00 |
| Commercial (CDL) | $34.00 | $59.00 |
| Motorcycle (Class M) | $30.00 | $55.00 |
Drivers Age 65+ (4-Year License)
Seniors pay a lower fee because the license is valid for a shorter period (4 years instead of 6).
| License Type | Standard Cost | REAL ID Cost |
| Class C (Passenger) | $20.00 | $40.00 |
| Commercial (CDL) | $27.00 | $47.00 |
Out-of-State Transfer Fees
If you are moving to Maine, you pay an Application Fee plus the License Fee.
- Class C Transfer: $35 (App) + $30 (License) = $65.00 Total
- CDL Transfer: $70 (App) + $34 (License) = $104.00 Total
- Note: Add $20.00 for each endorsement you transfer (e.g., Tanker, Air Brakes).
Duplicate & Replacement Fees
If you lose your license, the replacement cost depends heavily on whether you have a REAL ID.
| Card Type | Replacement Fee |
| Standard License (Non-Compliant) | $5.00 |
| REAL ID License | $30.00 |
| Standard ID Card | $5.00 |
| REAL ID ID Card | $30.00 |
Payment Methods
The Maine BMV accepts the following. Checks are preferred for mail-in applications.
- Cash
- Check / Money Order (Payable to: “Secretary of State”)
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover.
- Warning: American Express is NOT accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A REAL ID costs $55 to renew, while a standard license costs $30. If you already have a REAL ID and want to “downgrade” to a standard license to save money, you can do so at your next renewal.
Yes. If you fail the written test or the road test, you must pay another $35.00 to reschedule.
No. Updating your address in the BMV system is free. However, if you want a new plastic card with the new address printed on it, you must pay the $5.00 (Standard) or $30.00 (REAL ID) duplicate fee.
Only for Renewals and Replacements. Initial applications (like permits or transfers) must be paid in person or by check via mail.
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