Maine License Plate Search: License Plate Lookup in Maine

In 1905, the American state of Maine first mandated its citizens to register their cars and display license plates on their vehicles. 

In the Department of the Secretary of State's office, as of 2022, the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles is responsible for issuing license plates. 

License plates in Maine are made of metals and consist of letters, numbers, and other symbols attached to cars by the state for identification and registration purposes. 

According to the state Laws of Maine, most vehicle classifications require both front and back plates, whereas motorcycles and trailers only need the rear plates. 

Porcelain license plates were the first sets of License Plates Maine issued, and they are now sought-after collectibles. 

However, aluminum is now the only material used for Maine license plates.

Since 1936, Maine license plates' sole and original tagline has been "Vacationland," which is also Maine's state motto. 

There is, of course, a purpose for this motto or phrase: thousands of tourists from around the globe visit the New England state annually. 

Visitors can take in the beautiful surroundings and leisurely pace of life here.

How to Get a Maine License Plate?

The Maine state laws make it mandatory for all vehicle users to have only one set of Maine License Plates for one vehicle. 

Before you decide to get a License plate in Maine, you should engage your Local Municipal office to make more inquiries on the registration. 

This is necessary as the registration process varies due to local municipal office laws, the vehicle, and the type of plate to be registered. Then, you need to provide the necessary documents as stated below.

* Dealer's Bill of Sale Agreement
* Blue Title application in blue (Applicable to vehicles from 1995 or newer)
* Proof of insurance (ID card, binder, or policy)
* The registration copy in white and yellow
* Receipt for excise tax

You should note that there are some exceptional cases where the local municipal office nearest you isn't involved in the registration program. 

In this case, you will need to apply for the License Plate through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Branch office closest to you. 

Once all the necessary documentation for the license plate application has been approved, you then go on to pay the required registration fees. 

These fees differ based on the type of License plate type and the type of vehicle. 

For example, a standard License Plate in Maine costs about $35 for registering or renewing license plates for vehicles, whereas standard plates for motorcycles cost about $21. 

On the other hand, the state requires an extra $25 to be paid for vanity plates asides from the mandatory registration fees.

How Can I Look Up a Maine License Plate?

A license plate lookup in Maine is the process of using the license plate number of a vehicle to access more details on the vehicle associated with the number plate using a lookup tool that is frequently found online. 

You can look up license plates in Maine by going to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website. In addition, the Maine BMV often provides accurate and up-to-date information regarding car records. 

Alternatively, you can use one of the several 3rd party internet service providers to conduct a license plate lookup. 

While some external agencies offer free license plate lookup services, others do it for a specified fee. 

Frequently, free providers only provide basic vehicle reports that might not be accurate or satisfy the requester's needs. 

Therefore, you are more likely to get current and adequate vehicle records and details when using a premium service, which you have to subscribe for. 

Some of these providers include Docusearch, Licensesearch, and Search Quarry.

A license plate lookup can also be conducted in Maine using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 

In public vehicle records, the license plate of a vehicle is linked with its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 

Whenever the Bureau of Motor Vehicles in Maine receives applications for car registrations in the state, it acquires vehicle information such as plate numbers and VINs. 

The records are then stored in a database and can be accessed by visiting any of the state's BMV branch offices.

How Can I Renew my Maine License Plate?

You can renew your Maine License plate in person or online. For online renewals, you can proceed within 60 days before your existing registration expires. 

This process occurs on the Rapid Renewal System, where you fill in necessary details such as your town, control number, full name, evidence of insurance, and registration number. 

Then, you go on to pay the renewal fee as required.

Meanwhile, for the physical renewal of the Maine License plate, you must pay a visit to the Local Maine DMV Municipal office closest to you to pay your excise tax. 

Afterward, visit the nearest BMV Office to submit your proof of insurance and excise tax receipt, vehicle registration application, and required payment for the renewal. 

Conclusion

If you misplace, damage, or have your license plate stolen, you should request a replacement within a day. 

But, first, submit a physical application at a BMV office or participating Municipal Office, then pay the required fee of $5.