Maine driving questions, answered
What a new driver in Maine asks, answered in two or three sentences from Maine’s own manual, code, court schedule or licensing pages, and kept only after every figure in it was found in the source it cites. How the answers are made
What happens if I get pulled over and I don't have my license on me?
Under Maine law, the officer can give you a ticket for not producing your license. The fine is $152, and you can pay it without going to court. If you show that you held a valid license at the time, the ticket is dismissed.
Sources: 29-A M.R.S. § 1408 · MAINE JUDICIAL BRANCH VIOLATIONS BUREAU — Schedule of Amounts Due, for traffic infractions occurring on or after September 24, 2025 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught texting while driving?
Under Maine law, you get a ticket for a traffic infraction. A first offense is $325, and you can pay it without going to court. A second within 3 years is $625 plus a license suspension of at least 30 days.
Sources: 29-A M.R.S. § 2119 · MAINE JUDICIAL BRANCH VIOLATIONS BUREAU — Schedule of Amounts Due, for traffic infractions occurring on or after September 24, 2025 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I'm driving past my curfew with a provisional license?
On a provisional license in Maine, you can't drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
Sources: Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (Secretary of State) — Graduated Drivers License · as of 11 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How many friends can I have in the car when I first get my license?
If you're under 18, none, except immediate family. Friends can ride only if a licensed driver at least 20 years old, licensed 2 years, sits beside you.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 9 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How long do I have to hold my permit before I can take the road test?
If you're under 21, you must hold your learner's permit for 6 months before you can apply for the road test.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 8 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What car insurance do I need to drive?
In Maine, any car you drive must be insured, even if you don't own it. Maine law says it must be covered by a liability insurance policy before it can be registered.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 19 · 29-A M.R.S. § 402 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I crash my parents' car?
If you're responsible for the damage and have no liability insurance, your license and registration are suspended until proof of insurance is filed. Maine law also makes your parents liable with you for damage you cause, if they knowingly let you drive. If you damage someone's property, you must tell the owner and give your name, address, registration number and, if asked, proof of insurance.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 15 · 29-A M.R.S. § 1651 · 29-A M.R.S. § 2255 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How far from a fire hydrant do I have to park?
Local rules in Maine commonly ban parking within 10 feet of a fire hydrant.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 70 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Can I use my phone at a red light?
No, Maine law says you can't hold or use your phone while driving, even when you're stopped at a red light. Pull over somewhere safe and stop first.
Sources: 29-A M.R.S. § 2121 · Maine driver’s manual p. 27 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How much is the fine for speeding in a school zone?
Speeding in a school zone costs twice the usual fine. It's $203, $233, $315, $435 or $531, depending on how far over you are. You can pay it without going to court.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 82 · MAINE JUDICIAL BRANCH VIOLATIONS BUREAU — Schedule of Amounts Due, for traffic infractions occurring on or after September 24, 2025 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught driving alone on my permit?
You can get a ticket for violating your learner's permit, which is $152 and can be paid without going to court. A conviction for driving alone on a permit may also bring a 30-day suspension.
Sources: Maine driver’s manual p. 13 · MAINE JUDICIAL BRANCH VIOLATIONS BUREAU — Schedule of Amounts Due, for traffic infractions occurring on or after September 24, 2025 · as of 4 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Any question about Maine driving law can be asked in the box, not only these: each answer comes from Maine’s own manual or code, cited. Ask a question