(MAINE) Maine will issue a REAL ID‑compliant driver’s license or state ID to many visa holders who have temporary lawful status, as long as the BMV can confirm that status through the federal SAVE system. Plan for about 4 weeks after your in‑person visit for the card to be processed and mailed.
This matters most for people who fly domestically or enter federal facilities after May 7, 2025, when a standard, non‑REAL ID license stops working for federal identification purposes. It also matters for noncitizens because Maine ties the card’s expiration date to the end date of your lawful status.
What “REAL ID” changes — and what it doesn’t
A Maine REAL ID is a state‑issued license or ID that meets federal identity standards for federal purposes, such as TSA airport screening. Maine marks a compliant card with a gold Maine outline with a white star.
A noncompliant card is still a valid Maine license for driving, but it shows “NOT INTENDED FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES.” Until May 7, 2025, that standard card can still work for domestic flights and many federal settings, but that window closes after that date.
REAL ID remains optional for state purposes. You do not need a REAL ID to:
– drive
– vote
– apply for many state services
For the federal rule itself and accepted alternatives (like passports), see the Department of Homeland Security’s official REAL ID page: DHS REAL ID.
Who can qualify in Maine as a noncitizen
Maine issues REAL ID cards to people with temporary lawful status when the BMV can verify status through the SAVE system, the federal database used to confirm immigration status for benefits and licenses.
Common categories included in Maine guidance:
– Employment‑based visa holders (e.g., H‑1B, L‑1)
– Students and exchange visitors (e.g., F‑1, J‑1)
– TPS holders
– People granted asylum and refugees
– DACA recipients
VisaVerge.com reports that Maine does not have a state‑specific rule blocking visa holders as a group from receiving a REAL ID, unlike some states that have imposed tighter limits.
Timing decisions that save headaches later
Match your application timing to your immigration timeline before booking an appointment. Maine generally sets the REAL ID expiration date to the end date of your lawful status, such as the end date on a visa classification document or an EAD.
If your status ends in the middle of a heavy travel year, you may need to renew sooner than expected. For example, a work visa that ends in December can produce a license that expires in December as well.
If you expect an extension, a change of status, or an EAD renewal, bring the most current proof you have. The SAVE system check can confirm many updates, but your paperwork still matters at the counter.
The four‑step path from preparation to receiving the card
- Choose REAL ID or standard, then book a visit.
- Apply in person at a Maine BMV branch or mobile unit.
- Maine offers an online appointment system across 13 locations; appointments reduce wait times.
- Gather originals or certified copies that match exactly.
- Bring the full set of documents listed below.
- Name and address mismatches are the top reason applicants are turned away.
- Attend the appointment and complete verification.
- Plan for a short visit if you are prepared. Maine says many visits take under 20 minutes when documents are complete.
- Wait for mailing after processing.
- Expect about 4 weeks for the card to be processed and mailed after the in‑person transaction.
Documents the Maine BMV expects for a REAL ID from visa holders
Maine requires documentation for identity, lawful status, Social Security, and Maine residency. The BMV scans and stores copies securely; the copies are not sent to the federal government as part of your license transaction.
1) One document that proves identity, date of birth, and lawful status
Bring one of the following in the forms Maine lists as acceptable:
– An unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa plus an I‑94 arrival/departure record, or
– A valid Employment Authorization Document (Form I‑766), or
– A Permanent Resident Card (Form I‑551), if that applies to you
Official form references:
– Employment Authorization Document: Form I-766 (EAD) information, USCIS
– Permanent Resident Card: Form I-551 (Green Card) information, USCIS
2) Social Security Number proof, or proof you’re not eligible
- If you have an SSN, Maine allows you to provide the number verbally; the physical Social Security card is not required in routine cases.
- If you do not have an SSN, bring proof of ineligibility as Maine requests. Some applicants can use alternatives (e.g., W‑2 or pay stub) when appropriate.
3) Two proofs of Maine residency with your current address
You must show two documents proving you live in Maine. Name and address must match across paperwork. P.O. Boxes are not accepted as a residency address.
Common examples:
– Utility bill
– Mortgage statement
– Lease agreement
– Bank statement
4) Name‑change document, if your documents don’t match
If your passport, I‑94, lease, or other records show different names, bring a linking document such as:
– Marriage certificate
– Divorce decree
– Court order
The BMV visit: what to expect from the clerk and the SAVE system check
At the counter, a clerk reviews your documents and confirms identity details. For noncitizens, the BMV uses the SAVE system to verify lawful status at application or renewal.
Most applicants never see the SAVE query itself, but its effects are evident:
– A SAVE confirmation supports issuance to people with temporary lawful status.
– The end date of your lawful status often drives the license expiration date.
If your status is near expiration, the clerk may scrutinize dates. Bring your most recent evidence so your record reflects your current situation.
Processing, mailing, and renewals for noncitizens
- Expect about 4 weeks from the in‑person visit to processing and mailing. This timeline matters for business travel, school trips, or family emergencies.
- Renewals and upgrades require an in‑person transaction and another SAVE system verification for noncitizens.
- If you are upgrading an existing credential, bring the expiring card with you.
- Maine’s public guidance here does not list a single statewide fee for every applicant. Confirm the cost during booking or at the branch.
Practical fixes for common document problems
Small document gaps cause most delays, especially for newcomers, students, and workers who moved recently. Use these fixes before your appointment:
– If your bank statement shows a different address, update it and print a fresh statement.
– If your lease lists roommates, ask the landlord for a statement that includes your full name and the address.
– If your passport name differs from your lease, bring the marriage certificate or court order that links the names.
– If you rely on a printed I‑94, bring the clearest copy you have, plus your passport and visa page.
Maine publishes acceptable document examples and edge cases in its official checklist. Download the REAL ID Checklist (PDF) here: Maine BMV REAL ID Checklist.
Getting answers before you take time off work or class
If you want to confirm documents before you go, contact Maine BMV License Services:
– Phone: 207‑624‑9000 ext. 52114
– Email: [email protected]
This is especially helpful for first‑time applicants unsure which residency papers count. For the latest Maine‑specific REAL ID instructions and appointment access, use the state’s official page: Maine BMV REAL ID information.
Key takeaways:
– Bring accurate, matching documents and expect an in‑person visit.
– Plan for about 4 weeks for processing and mailing.
– After May 7, 2025, a standard non‑REAL ID Maine license will no longer be accepted for federal purposes (domestic air travel, federal buildings).
Maine is urging residents, including visa holders with temporary lawful status, to obtain REAL ID-compliant identification before the May 2025 federal deadline. This change affects domestic air travel and access to federal buildings. Noncitizens must undergo status verification through the SAVE system, and the license expiration often mirrors their immigration documents. The process requires an in-person BMV visit and approximately four weeks for mail delivery.
