Maine Driving Records

Maine's driving records are maintained by the Secretary of State (SOS), specifically by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). As mandated by Maine Revised Statutes (MRS), Title 29-A, Section 252, these records provide a comprehensive history of drivers' interactions with traffic laws. This history includes violations, license suspensions, and accidents.

The importance of these records extends to various stakeholders. Individuals can use these records to obtain insurance, apply for driving-related jobs, and contest traffic tickets. Businesses in transportation and logistics rely on these records to assess employee safety standards. Law enforcement, courts, and insurers use driving records to evaluate individuals' driving behavior.

Moreover, Maine's commitment to transparency allows residents to request and review their driving records, which promotes accuracy and accountability in the system. This approach shows the state's dedication to road safety and legal responsibility. 

Types of Driving Records Available in Maine

The Maine BMV provides residents access to various driving records, each covering different timeframes of an individual's driving history. These records are categorized as follows:

Three-Year Non-Certified Record

This record provides a snapshot of the driver's recent history, covering the past three years. It includes information such as:

• Current driver's license status
• License issue and expiration dates
• Traffic violations
• Accumulated demerit points

Ten-Year Non-Certified Record

Similar to the three-year record, but extends the coverage to a decade of driving history. This driving record offers a more comprehensive view of long-term driving patterns and behaviors.

Certified Records (3 or 10 years)

These are the only records accepted for official purposes. They contain the same information as non-certified records but are legally recognized. Certified records include details on:

• License suspensions
• Traffic violations
• Demerit points
• License issuance dates

The key difference between certified and non-certified records lies in their official recognition. While non-certified records are suitable for personal review, certified records are required for legal or official proceedings.

How To Request a Maine Driving History Report?

To request a Maine driving history report, individuals have several options: 

Online

For online requests, drivers can only obtain non-certified copies. The three-year driver record is available for $7, while the ten-year driving record costs $12. Individuals can send their requests through the BMV's Driver Record Check portal. Users can instantly view, save, or print their records after completing the transaction. 

By Mail

To obtain driving records by mail, individuals can send their written request to:

Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Driver License Services Division
29 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0029

The request must include the following:

• Legal name (matching driver's license)
• Birth date
• Current residential address
• Desired record span (3 or 10 years)
• Payment via check or money order to "Secretary of State" ($5 for three years, $10 for ten years)
• Additional $1 for certified copies

Individuals must include their fax number and an extra $2 fee for faxed delivery.

In Person

Driving records are available at any Maine DMV location. Bring identification and be prepared to pay $5 for a 3-year record or $10 for a 10-year record. Certified copies can be obtained for an additional fee.

Uses of Maine Driving Records

Driving histories in Maine play a crucial role across multiple domains, such as:

• Businesses: These documents are essential for evaluating job applicants, particularly for positions that involve operating vehicles. 
• Insurance providers: Insurers rely on this data to determine appropriate premium rates. 
• Judicial system: These records serve as unbiased evidence in traffic-related legal proceedings and disputes concerning accident liability.

Despite their undeniable importance, the use of Maine's driving records is subject to stringent regulations. Both state laws and the Federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) govern the access and application of this information. These legislative measures aim to safeguard individual privacy while preventing unauthorized use.

The regulatory framework clearly outlines permissible uses for driving records. Breaching these regulations can result in severe consequences, including hefty monetary penalties and potential criminal prosecution. 

Understanding Maine Driving Laws

Maine has strict driving laws that all drivers must follow. There are also specific ones that vary based on residency status.

Key Driving Laws

Here are some of the key driving laws implemented across Maine:

Seat Belt 

Maine's seat belt law, as outlined in MRS Title 29-A, Section 2081, requires all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts, regardless of their seating position. The law includes specific provisions for children:

• Children under two years must be in a rear-facing child restraint system.
• Children under eight, weighing less than 80 pounds or shorter than 57 inches, must use a child restraint system.
• Children under 12 years should be seated in the rear seat when possible.

Law enforcement officers can stop vehicles solely for seat belt violations, with fines ranging from $50 for first offenses to $250 for third and subsequent violations. 

Using Personal Communication Devices 

Maine law prohibits drivers from using or interacting with handheld electronic devices or mobile phones while operating a vehicle on public roads. However, drivers aged 18 and older with valid licenses can use devices in hands-free mode if properly mounted. 

The law specifically bans manual texting, instant messaging, and emailing while driving. Exceptions are made for emergency communications with law enforcement or emergency services. 

As outlined in MRS Title 29-A, Section 2121, penalties include fines of $85 for first offenses and $325 for second offenses, with potential license suspension for repeat violations. 

Vehicle Liability Insurance

Maine law mandates that all drivers maintain minimum liability insurance coverage as specified in MRS Title 29-A, Section 1601. The minimum amount should be the following as per MRS Title 29-A, Section 1605:

• $50,000 for injury or death of one person
• $100,000 for injury or death of two or more people
• $25,000 for property damage in an accident

Driving without this mandatory insurance is an infraction, resulting in fines between $100 and $500 and suspension of the driver's license and vehicle registration until proper coverage is obtained and a $50 reinstatement fee is paid.

Requirements for Residents, New Residents, and Foreign Nationals

Maine's driving laws set specific requirements for different groups:

Residents (Old and New)

Residents must obtain a Maine driver's license to operate a motor vehicle, with those under 18 needing to complete additional steps, including a driver education course and supervised driving practice. 

New residents must transfer their out-of-state license to a Maine license within 30 days of establishing residency, providing proof of identity and Maine address. 

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals can use their valid foreign driver's license for up to 90 days, after which they must apply for a Maine license if they become residents. This application process involves providing proof of legal U.S. presence, identity, and Maine residency and passing the required tests. 

The Points System in Maine

Maine uses a point system for moving violations. Here is an overview:

• Drivers receive a warning letter at six points within a year. 
• At 12 points, a license suspension notice is issued, typically for up to 15 days per violation. 
• Three suspensions within three years can lead to a 120-day suspension for future violations. 
• Drivers can request an administrative hearing to argue their case within ten days of the suspension date.

The SOS records all traffic violation convictions, such as:

• Driving while suspended: 8 points
• Speeding 15-30 mph over the limit: 6 points
• Leaving accident scene (property damage): 6 points
• Excessive acceleration: 4 points
• Failure to obey stop sign or light: 4 points
• Headlight or signal violation: 2 points

Note that points expire after one year. Drivers earn one point credit for each year without a traffic conviction, up to four credits. Completing an approved driver improvement course earns three credit points, available once per year.

Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Maine

Maine classifies traffic violations as either criminal or civil offenses. Knowing the difference between these offenses and their penalties can help Maine drivers avoid committing them.

Criminal Driving Offense

Criminal driving offenses are major violations in Maine, with penalties ranging from large fines, jail time, suspension, and other severe penalties. One example of a criminal driving offense in Maine is operating under the influence (OUI).

Maine law takes a firm stance against impaired driving, classifying it as a serious criminal offense. The state's OUI statute is detailed in MRS Title 29-A, Section 2411. An OUI offense occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or when intoxicants impair them to any degree.

The consequences for OUI convictions in Maine are tiered, increasing in severity based on prior offenses and specific aggravating circumstances. First-time offenders face a minimum 150-day license suspension and a $500 fine. 

Penalties escalate significantly for repeat offenders, with fourth or subsequent convictions potentially resulting in eight-year license suspensions, six months of jail time, and fines exceeding $2,000.

Aggravating factors, such as high BAC levels or having a minor in the vehicle, can lead to enhanced penalties. Refusing a chemical test also triggers automatic license suspensions and increased jail time.

OUI penalties include mandatory participation in the Driver Education Evaluation Program (DEEP). This program focuses on alcohol and drug education, though courts may waive this requirement if the defendant has already completed a qualifying treatment program. Individuals must call the DEEP office at 207-626-8600 to register for the program.

Civil Driving Offense

In Maine, most speeding incidents are civil violations, as outlined in MRS Title 29-A, Section 2073. While serious, these infractions don't result in criminal charges or a criminal record.

Civil speeding occurs when a driver exceeds the posted limit by up to 29 mph. For instance, traveling 55 mph in a 45 mph zone would be a civil speeding violation.

The consequences of these infractions are primarily financial and administrative. Fines are calculated based on the extent of the speed limit breach, with penalties starting at $114 for speeds 1-9 mph over the limit and increasing for higher speeds. While these violations don't risk jail time, they impact a driver's record through a point system.

Points are assigned to a driver's license based on the severity of the speeding offense, ranging from two points for minor infractions to six points for more significant speed limit violations. Accumulating 12 or more points within a year can result in license suspension, with the duration determined by the total points accrued.

Drivers have the right to challenge these citations in court. If successful, either due to the citing officer's absence or insufficient evidence, the ticket may be dismissed or the charges reduced.

Maine Driving Statistics and Goals

Maine has been addressing traffic fatalities through various strategies, showing a generally lower fatality rate compared to many U.S. states. 

Recent data from various sources, including the SOS and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), indicates a decrease in traffic deaths from over 180 in 2022 to about 130 in 2023. Key factors contributing to accidents include speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving.

Maine's traffic strategies have contributed greatly to the reduction of traffic fatalities. These strategies include the following:

Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP)

This plan targets specific areas based on crash trends, such as:

• Lane departure incidents
• Intersection-related accidents
• Safety of vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists)

The SHSP develops tailored strategies to address these focus areas effectively.

Enhanced Traffic Enforcement

Maine's approach includes:

• Targeted patrols in high-traffic areas
• Use of technology like automated speed enforcement
• Focus on deterring dangerous driving behaviors

Driver Education Programs

Maine prioritizes driver education, particularly for new and young drivers. These programs emphasize defensive driving techniques and the risks of impaired and distracted driving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine Driving Records

Here are the most commonly asked questions about driving records in Maine:

Can Someone Obtain Another Person's Driving Record?

A person seeking another individual's driving record must provide a valid reason and may need to obtain consent or a court order, depending on the circumstances and intended use of the record.

How Can a Person Contest an Inaccuracy on Their Driving Record?

If someone believes their Maine driving record contains inaccuracies, they can contest the information by contacting the state BMV. The ME BMV will review the request and supporting evidence, making necessary corrections if inaccuracies are verified.

How Often Should an Individual Review Their Driving Record?

Maine residents are advised to review their driving records at least annually to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of information. Regular reviews help identify potential errors in convictions, suspensions, or accidents, allowing for prompt corrections.

Helpful Links and Resources

Here are some helpful links and resources for Maine drivers:

• Check this example of a three-year and ten-year driving record in Maine: https://apps1.web.maine.gov/bmv/drc/example.html 
• Read more about Maine's Driver Education and Evaluation Programs (DEEP): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/obh/support-services/impaired-driving 
• Read the full data on the traffic fatality rates in the U.S., including Maine, for 2023: https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813561 

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Counties in Maine

• Androscoggin
• Aroostook
• Cumberland
• Franklin
• Hancock
• Kennebec
• Knox
• Lincoln
• Oxford
• Penobscot
• Piscataquis
• Sagadahoc
• Somerset
• Waldo
• Washington
• York