How to Replace a Motorcycle License in Maine
Replacing motorcycle license credentials in Maine is necessary for several reasons. For example, a lost motorcycle license must be replaced before the rider can continue operating on any public roadway. Furthermore, damaged, stolen or destroyed licenses need replacing as well. It is illegal for any Maine driver to operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, including motorcycles.
The replacement process is regulated by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or BMV. All riders must request duplicate licenses using one of the approved replacement methods issued by the BMV.
Drivers can replace motorcycle license credentials in one of a few ways. Those who currently reside in the state may be eligible for online replacement, which is the most convenient process available.
Alternatively, they may replace their license in person at one of the many BMV branches located across Maine. Residents who currently live outside of the state but require a duplicate license may be eligible for a mail-in replacement procedure.
No matter which method they choose, riders must provide a handful of documents and pay a replacement fee before they can receive a duplicate license. To learn more about replacing a motorcycle license in Maine, continue reading the topics discussed below.
When is a motorcycle license replacement required in Maine?
Maine riders must request a duplicate motorcycle license when they are no longer in possession of their original credential. For example, any driver whose motorcycle license becomes lost, stolen or damaged must complete a replacement process approved by the Maine BMV.
Driving without a license is illegal and may result in fines and penalties. Riders must replace the credential immediately if they wish to continue operating on Maine roadways.
A motorcycle license replacement is mandatory for all drivers who lose their licenses. Maine law requires drivers to request a replacement before they get back on the roads.
The BMV provides many replacement options, including in-person, online or even by mail. To receive a duplicate, drivers must submit the necessary documents and pay the reinstatement fee.
It is important to note that replacing motorcycle license documents is different from the process necessary to renew these documents. License renewals are reserved for drivers whose motorcycle licenses are about to expire.
Documents Required to Replace a Motorcycle License in Maine
To apply for a duplicate motorcycle license in Maine, riders must complete and submit a handful of documents to the BMV. To receive the motorcycle license replacement, riders are required to provide two types of identification.
One must include the driver’s date of birth while the other must show the driver’s signature. Some may be asked for their Social Security number, depending on their driving and renewal history.
Motorists must also submit the Request for Duplicate Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or Identification Card (form MV-10). This indicates the specific reason for requesting a replacement and why the original license is no longer available.
To replace motorcycle license credentials with the BMV, riders must also provide proof of residency. Motorists who have already provided this information to the BMV are exempt from providing proof, but if they have changed their address recently, they must update it.
Drivers must provide one of the following proofs of residency:
- Maine Vehicle Registration
- Utility Bill (including electric bills, water/sewer bills or cell phone bills)
- Maine Resident Hunting and or Fishing License
- Contract in the driver’s name (such as a mortgage agreement, lease or insurance policy)
- Tax bill
- Tax return
- Paycheck stub
- W-2
How to Replace a Maine Motorcycle License Online
Maine drivers replacing motorcycle license credentials may choose to complete the process online. It is the most convenient option offered to Maine motorists, as they can do this from the comfort of their own home. The BMV allows any individual who holds a valid driver’s license, motorcycle license or ID card to use the online renewal and replacement system.
However, the following conditions prohibit certain drivers from using the online system to replace a license:
- Having driving privileges suspended or revoked
- Holding a commercial driver’s license
- Holding a driver’s license from another state
- Failing to provide proof of residency
- Not previously providing proof of residency
- Changing their name since the last renewal
- Have recently developed a medical condition
- Needing an eye exam
To complete the motorbike license replacement process online, drivers must have their Social Security cards on hand. They must also provide a valid credit or debit card to pay the replacement fee. Furthermore, thy should have access to a printer so they can print their receipt and keep it for their records.
How to Replace a Maine Motorcycle License in Person
Many Maine drivers know how to replace a motorcycle license online, but do not know that they are able to complete the process in person as well. The BMV gives drivers the option to schedule a replacement appointment at their local branch office. Alternatively, drivers may choose to complete this process at a mobile unit.
To perform a motorcycle license replacement in person, riders must find their local office location. It is always recommended to call ahead to schedule an appointment to avoid long wait times.
Riders must bring all required documents with them to the BMV, including the Request for Duplicate Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or Identification Card (form MV-10). Drivers with missing or incomplete documents will not have their applications processed. Furthermore, motorists must bring a form of payment for the replacement fee.
BMV branches accept credit cards, debit cards, cash, money orders and checks. Personal checks are not accepted.
How to Replace a Maine Motorcycle License by Mail
Drivers may apply for a duplicate motorcycle license by mail, though they will need to prepare a written request to do so. The Request for Duplicate Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or Identification Card (form MV-10) requires drivers to provide the following information:
- Driver’s full name
- Driver’s date of birth
- Driver’s current mailing address
- A brief summary of why the driver needs a replacement
Riders must pay the duplicate motorcycle license fee in addition to completing form MV-10. Everything should be sent to:
Secretary of State Bureau of Motor Vehicles License Services 29 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333-0029
Once the BMV receives this information and verifies the driver’s identity through their system, the application will be processed. Drivers will receive their duplicate license by mail. Those currently living out-of-state may also follow this procedure to replace their lost licenses by mail.
Maine Motorcycle License Replacement Fees
If you are asking yourself, “How much does it cost to replace a motorcycle license?” you may be relieved to learn that there is a flat rate to replace your missing credential. Unlike other states, the cost does not vary based on age or license class.
The current motorcycle replacement fee in Maine is $5, though prices are subject to change. Submitting payment is the final step in the process; as soon as the BMV verifies all information, you can get back to driving as normal.
Maine Motorcycle License Replacement Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Things you will need to renew your driver’s license from Maine.gov
- Frequently Asked Questions from Maine.gov