How to Register Your Car in Maine

Save time by being prepared with all the necessary information when you register your car in Maine.

Difficulty Level: Easy      Time Required: 30 minutes

Here's How:
  1. Go to the town office of the town you live in. Portland residents go to the City Clerk's office at City Hall at 389 Congress Street.
  2. Pay the excise tax.
  3. For cars purchased from a dealer, give the town clerk your green Dealer's Certificate (sales tax paid), blue title application, evidence of insurance, and registration application and excise tax receipt.
  4. For privately purchased cars, provide a signed bill of sale, the title (signed over to new owner), evidence of insurance, and registration application and excise tax receipt.
  5. Choose the type of plate you want (loon, chickadee, vanity, etc) and pay the appropriate fee.
  6. Place the stickers on your license plates according to the instructions.
  7. Don't forget to have your car inspected after registering it. You won't receive a reminder from the State.
Tips:
  1. If the vehicle is new, you'll have to provide the manufacturer's suggested retail price, or a copy of the sticker.
  2. If your town doesn't participate in the state's New Registration program, you'll have to visit one of the branch offices of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to register your car.

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