Renewal Frequency and Age Requirements
- Maine drivers aged 65 and older must renew their driver’s license every four years. This is more frequent than the six-year renewal period for those under 65.
- The renewal process is designed to help ensure that older drivers remain safe on the road, while still maintaining their independence and mobility.
Vision Test Requirements
- A vision test is mandatory at the first renewal after age 40, then at every second renewal until age 62.
- After age 62, a vision test is required at every renewal. The minimum acceptable vision is 20/40 or better.
- You can take the vision test for free at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office, or you may have it performed by your own eye doctor within a year of renewal; if so, your doctor must complete a specific Eye Form.
Renewal Process Options
- In Person: Seniors can renew their license at any BMV branch office or mobile unit. You must bring:
- Proof of Maine residency (if your address has changed)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence
- Your current Maine driver’s license
- Social Security number
- Online: Online renewal is possible for eligible applicants, but not if you need a vision test or if you have developed a new medical condition since your last renewal. If you are required to take a vision test, you must renew in person.
- By Mail: Maine does not currently offer license renewals by mail.
Fees
- The renewal fee for seniors (65+) is $20 for a four-year license.
- Payment can be made by cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card at the BMV office.
Medical and Driving Ability Concerns
- If you have developed a medical condition, it must be reported to the BMV. Your physician will need to complete a Driver Medical Evaluation form, which you must submit in person.
- The BMV accepts reports of concerns about a driver’s ability from friends, family, or medical professionals. Special restrictions may be placed on a license based on medical or vision results.
Additional Information
- During the renewal process, you can register to vote or join the organ and tissue donation registry.
- If your license is suspended or revoked, it cannot be renewed until your driving privileges are restored.
- If you do not have a Social Security number, you must provide an unexpired immigration document or a statement from the Social Security Administration.
Summary Table: Senior License Renewal in Maine
| Requirement | Age 65+ |
|---|---|
| Renewal period | Every 4 years |
| Vision test | Required at every renewal |
| Renewal fee | $20 for 4 years |
| Online renewal | Possible if no vision test/medical change |
| In-person renewal | Always available |
| By mail renewal | Not available |
| Medical evaluation | Required if new/changed condition |
Key Takeaways
- Seniors in Maine must renew their license every four years and pass a vision test at each renewal after age 62.
- In-person renewal is required if a vision test or medical evaluation is needed.
- Prepare all necessary documents and start the process early to avoid delays.
- The BMV offers support for seniors, including free in-office vision tests and the ability to report medical conditions or concerns.
Sources:
- https://www.maine.gov/online/bmv/dlr/
- https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals
- https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/licenses/renewal.html
- https://www.progressive.com/lifelanes/on-the-road/senior-driving-laws-by-state/
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/maine-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://helloskip.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-renewing-your-maine-driver-license
