Vehicle Registration

How to Register & Title a Vehicle in Maine

3 min read

Registering and titling a vehicle in Maine is required for both new and used vehicles and applies to purchases from dealers or private sellers. The process ensures your vehicle is legally recognized by the state and can be operated on public roads.

Step 1: Title the Vehicle

In Maine, vehicles from model year 1995 or newer must be titled, unless exempt. Title requirements vary depending on where you bought the vehicle:

If You Bought from a Maine Dealer:

The dealer typically handles the title and registration process.
You will receive a temporary plate and registration while waiting for your official documents.

If You Bought from a Private Seller:

Obtain the signed title from the seller.
Ensure the seller completed the "Assignment of Title" section.
Complete a Bill of Sale, which must include the VIN, purchase price, date, and buyer/seller details.

If the vehicle comes from a state that doesn't issue titles, provide the most recent registration and a bill of sale.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To register and title your vehicle, you'll need the following:

Completed MVT-2 Title Application
Bill of Sale
Signed-over Certificate of Title
Proof of insurance (Maine requires liability insurance)
Odometer disclosure (for vehicles less than 10 years old)
Valid government-issued ID
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection (required for vehicles from out-of-state)
Excise tax payment receipt from your local town office

Step 3: Pay Excise Tax at the Town Office

Before visiting a BMV branch, you must pay the excise tax at your local municipal office. Bring:

Proof of ownership (title or bill of sale)
Vehicle information (year, make, model, VIN)
Your Maine address and ID

The town office will stamp your documents, indicating the tax has been paid.

Step 4: Register the Vehicle at a BMV Branch

After paying the excise tax, go to a Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office. Submit:

All required documents
Excise tax receipt
Registration fee (varies based on vehicle type and weight)

Visit Maine BMV Office Locations & Walk‑in vs Appointment Guide to find your nearest location and learn whether you need an appointment.

Best Times to Visit Maine BMV to Avoid Waits can help reduce your wait time.

Step 5: Get Your License Plates and Registration

Once the registration is processed, you will receive:

Two license plates (one for the front and one for the rear)
Registration certificate
Maine title (mailed separately if it's a new title)

Inspection Requirements

After registering, you must get a safety inspection from an authorized inspection station within 10 days. All vehicles in Maine must pass an annual inspection.

Learn more about the Maine Annual Safety Inspection Process.

Out-of-State Vehicle Transfers

If you're moving to Maine and bringing a vehicle registered elsewhere:

You must register your vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency.
A VIN inspection and title transfer are required.
Follow the same steps listed above, including paying excise tax and providing proof of insurance.

Address Changes and Duplicate Documents

If you change your address, notify the BMV to update your registration and title. Here's how: Changing Address on Your Maine License or Registration

Need a replacement title or registration? View fees and required forms here: Maine DMV Fees & Forms for Duplicate Documents

For further questions, visit the official Maine BMV site.