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How to Get ID & Documents in Maine

Maine issues state identification cards through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), which is part of the Secretary of State's office. At just $5, Maine has one of the lowest-cost state IDs in the entire country.

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Quick Answer

To get a state ID in Maine, visit a BMV branch office with a birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and two proofs of Maine residency. A standard state ID costs only $5, making it one of the most affordable in the nation. Cards are typically mailed within 2-3 weeks.

Maine ID Agency

Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

Website: maine.gov/sos/bmv

Phone: (207) 624-9000

State ID Card

Cost: $5

REAL ID: $5 (REAL ID compliant included at no extra charge)

Processing: Temporary document issued same day; permanent card mailed within 2-3 weeks

Online renewal: No

Requirements:

  • One primary identity document (U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization)
  • Social Security card or document showing full SSN
  • Two proofs of Maine residential address (utility bill, bank statement, lease, government mail)
  • Proof of legal name change if applicable (marriage certificate, court order)

Maine's $5 state ID fee is among the lowest in the country, making identification highly accessible. State ID applications are processed at BMV branch offices located across the state. In-person visits are required for initial applications. Some BMV services are available at municipal offices in certain towns.

Birth Certificate

Agency: Maine Office of Vital Records

Cost: $15 (certified copy)

Online ordering: Yes

Processing: Walk-in: same day at Augusta office. Mail: 4-6 weeks. Online through VitalChek: 5-10 business days

Order online: maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/public-health-systems/data-research/vital-records

Maine birth certificates can be ordered in person at the Office of Vital Records in Augusta, by mail, or online through VitalChek. Town clerks in the municipality where the birth occurred may also issue certified copies and may be a faster option. Some municipalities offer same-day service.

Special Programs & Fee Waivers

Reentry ID Program

The Maine Department of Corrections (MDOC) operates reentry programs that assist individuals with obtaining identification before release. Reentry coordinators help inmates gather necessary documents and work with the BMV to facilitate ID applications upon release.

Homeless Provisions

Maine does not have a formal statewide homeless ID fee waiver program. However, at $5, the state ID is extremely affordable. Local organizations such as Preble Street and homeless shelters in Portland, Bangor, and other cities often help cover ID costs for homeless individuals.

Fee Waivers

Maine does not offer general fee waivers for state IDs. The $5 cost is already among the lowest in the nation. Some community organizations provide financial assistance for document fees on a case-by-case basis.

Recommended Order to Get Your Documents

If you have no documents at all, this is the order most reentry specialists recommend. Each document makes the next one easier to get.

  1. 1
    Birth certificate -- This is the foundation document. You can usually order it by mail with minimal ID. It unlocks everything else. Cost in Maine: $15 (certified copy).
  2. 2
    Social Security card -- Always free. With your birth certificate, you can get a replacement SS card at any SSA office or online at ssa.gov. You can replace up to 3 cards per year, 10 in a lifetime.
  3. 3
    State ID card -- With your birth certificate and SS card, you have everything needed for a state ID at the BMV. Cost: $5.
  4. 4
    Other documents -- Once you have a state ID, you can open a bank account, apply for benefits, get a job, register to vote, and apply for a driver's license, passport, or other documents.

Pre-Release Document Planning Timeline

If you or someone you know is currently incarcerated, start the document process as early as possible. Many states allow document applications from inside the facility.

6-12 months out

Request a birth certificate by mail from your birth state. Contact your case manager or reentry coordinator about ID assistance programs. Ask if your facility has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Social Security Administration for in-facility SS card processing.

3-6 months out

Apply for your Social Security card replacement. If your facility has a partnership with the BMV, begin the state ID application. Gather any educational transcripts, vocational certificates, or GED documentation earned during incarceration.

1-3 months out

Confirm your documents are ready or in process. If your facility issues a DOC/prison release ID card, make sure it will be provided on release day. Identify the nearest BMV office and SSA office to where you will be living.

Release day

Get your prison release ID card, any documents your facility has prepared, and your personal property. Your release ID is a valid form of identification at many government offices. Visit the BMV as soon as possible to get your state ID.

Federal Release Identification Card (BOP)

If you or someone you know was incarcerated in a federal prison, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) issues a Federal Release Identification Card with REAL ID-level security features. This card is accepted by TSA for domestic air travel and by many state BMV offices as a valid form of identification. Over 16,700 cards have been issued since October 2023.

The federal release ID is nota REAL ID, but it can be used as proof of identity when applying for a state ID or driver's license. It includes your photo, date of birth, and federal inmate number. Ask your unit team or case manager about the Federal Release Identification Card program before your release date.

Note: This program is for federal (BOP) facilities only. State prison release IDs vary by state -- see the reentry program section above for Maine-specific information.

County Jail vs. State Prison: Different ID Situations

State prison releases typically have access to pre-release ID programs and reentry services. Many state corrections departments partner with the BMV to issue state IDs before release. Your facility case manager or reentry coordinator can help navigate this process.

County jail releases often get little or no document assistance. Jail stays are shorter, and most county jails do not have formal reentry ID programs. If you are released from county jail without ID, your best resources are:

  • Call 211 for local reentry and ID assistance programs
  • Contact your local Legal Aid office for help with documents
  • Ask your parole/probation officer about ID assistance
  • Visit a local shelter or reentry center -- many help with document recovery
  • Some BMV offices accept jail release paperwork as a secondary form of ID

Born in a Different State?

If you were born in a state other than Maine, you will need to order your birth certificate from the state where you were born. Every state has a vital records office that processes mail-in requests. You can also use VitalChek.com (official partner for most states) to order online, though they charge a processing fee on top of the state fee.

If you are currently incarcerated in Maine but were born elsewhere, your case manager or reentry coordinator can often help you request your birth certificate by mail from your birth state. Start this process at least 6 months before your release date, as out-of-state requests can take 4-8 weeks.

Born outside the U.S.? You will need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (for U.S. citizens born overseas), a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Permanent Resident Card (green card). Contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or a local immigration legal aid organization for help.

Social Security Card -- Key Facts

Replacing your Social Security card is always free -- do not pay anyone for this service. You can get a replacement online at ssa.gov/myaccount, by mail, or in person at any SSA office. You are limited to 3 replacement cards per year and 10 in your lifetime.

Prison-SSA partnership: Many federal and state correctional facilities have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Social Security Administration that allows inmates to apply for replacement cards using their prison ID as proof of identity. Ask your case manager if your facility participates. The SSA processes these applications and mails the card directly to the facility or to a designated release address.

No ID at all? If you have no other identification, the SSA may accept alternative evidence of identity. Visit an SSA office in person and explain your situation. Bring any documents you have, including prison release papers, medical records, or school records. See our guide for getting ID with no documents.

Other Important Documents

U.S. Passport -- A valid federal photo ID that can also serve as proof of citizenship. Useful as a backup ID. Costs $130 (book) or $30 (card). Apply at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office). See our felon passport guide.
Criminal Record / RAP Sheet -- You have the right to request your own criminal history. This is useful for expungement applications, job interviews, and housing applications. Contact the MaineState Police or use the FBI's Identity History Summary (costs $18, submitted via fingerprint card). See our guide to checking your own record.
Military Discharge Papers (DD-214) -- Veterans need their DD-214 for VA benefits, healthcare, and employment preferences. Request a copy from the National Personnel Records Center (free). Many county recorders also keep copies on file.
Selective Service Registration -- Males 18-25 are required to register. Registration is needed for federal financial aid (Pell Grants), federal jobs, and citizenship applications. Register or verify status at sss.gov.
Educational Transcripts & Vocational Certificates -- If you completed a GED, vocational training, or college courses during incarceration, contact the facility's education department for official transcripts before or soon after release. These documents help with employment and education applications. See our education & training guide.
Voter Registration -- Check your voting eligibility in Maine and register to vote. See our Maine voting rights guide.

Step-by-Step Guides

More Maine Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get a Maine state ID?
State ID applications are processed at BMV branch offices throughout Maine. Major offices are located in Augusta, Portland, Bangor, and other cities. Some municipal offices also provide limited BMV services. Find your nearest location on the BMV website.
How much does a Maine state ID cost?
A Maine state ID costs just $5, making it one of the most affordable in the entire country. This includes REAL ID compliance at no additional charge.
Can I renew my Maine state ID online?
Maine does not currently offer online renewal for state ID cards. You must visit a BMV branch office in person to renew your ID.
How do I get a replacement birth certificate in Maine?
You can order a certified copy from the Maine Office of Vital Records in Augusta ($15), by mail, or online through VitalChek. You can also request copies from the town clerk in the municipality where the birth occurred, which may be faster and sometimes less expensive.
Does Maine DOC help inmates get ID before release?
Yes, the Maine Department of Corrections has reentry programs that help inmates obtain identification documents before release. Reentry coordinators assist with ordering birth certificates and Social Security cards and coordinating with the BMV for state ID applications.
What if I am experiencing homelessness in Maine?
While Maine lacks a formal homeless ID program, the $5 state ID fee is very affordable. Organizations like Preble Street in Portland and other shelters can help with documentation and may cover costs. Contact your local shelter or 211 Maine for assistance connecting with ID resources.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Requirements and fees change frequently. Contact your local BMV, vital records office, or Social Security office for exact current requirements. For help, call 211 or visit 211.org.
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