U.S. STATE · DRIVER LICENSE
Maine Driver License Photo Requirements
Find out whether you need to make a photo, where the state takes it, and what is known about online renewal and photo upload.
Sources reviewed: October 12, 2026 · photo law reviewed: October 18, 2026
Do you need to make a photo?
Do not prepare a separate photo unless the state agency or your transaction instructions specifically ask for one. The agency procedure below describes where a photo is captured and what is known about remote renewal.
This page covers a driver license. It does not automatically apply to learner permits, state identification cards, commercial endorsements, or every exception.
Photo law and requirements
Maine Revised Statutes Title 29-A § 1401(2) requires every license except a temporary license to bear a full-face photograph or digital image of the licensee, with limited exemptions (including a person in active military service stationed outside the State and others approved by the Secretary of State). § 1401(6) treats digital images used to produce a license as confidential and lets the Secretary of State store and retain them. The reviewed statutes do not say who takes the photo or set conditions for reusing a photo on online renewal; § 1406-A(4) addresses renewal notices only. The controlling photo statute was reviewed; the Bureau of Motor Vehicles administrative-rule audit remains pending.
Where the photo is taken
Maine BMV takes a photo for an in-office REAL ID application. An office visit is needed when a new photo is required.
Online renewal, photo reuse, and upload
Online renewals are available to eligible applicants; the reviewed material does not state every online photo-reuse condition. AAA renewal service excludes transactions requiring a new photo.
New photo upload: Only treat upload as allowed when the linked official instructions explicitly say so.
Scope and limitations
This entry reports the issuing agency’s current public procedure. It does not by itself establish the full legal rule for every permit, state ID, exception, or transaction.
Official laws, rules, and agency sources
Check your exact application
Renewal eligibility and photo handling can depend on your record and transaction.
Open the interactive photo checker