Maine License Plate Lookup
Enter a license plate number and perform a free Maine license plate search
How to Do a Maine License Plate Search
The most frequently asked question with regards to license plates within Maine is how one actually does a license plate search. Individuals and businesses do this for a few reasons: to verify the owner of a vehicle, to report suspicious activity, or to validate that a private transaction is indeed legitimate. The State of Maine has specific laws against license plate search for the protection of privacy and misuse of information about a person. Most of the detailed searches require access by the law enforcement, but some of these are available to the public.
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles or BMV in short maintains a registry of vehicle and license plates on record. However, personally identifiable information such as the vehicle owner’s name, address, and contact information is exempt from public disclosure by the DPPA. Typically, a typical public search discloses only non-identifying information, which includes the type, model, and make of the vehicle, including if the vehicle is registered or not. Official searches have extensive records and are sought through a court order by police departments, as well as by other agencies which have proper authority from the BMV.
Custom and Vanity Plates in Maine
Many residents take pride in making a statement with their license plates-be it interests, hobbies, or affiliations. The State of Maine offers a wide variety of plates-from those dedicated to particular causes, such as conservation, veterans, and wildlife protection.
In order to apply for a vanity plate, one needs to make an application with the Maine BMV. An applicant has to observe certain rules in relation to what shall be on the vanity plate not to be offending or misleading.
Vanity plates also carry some extra charges; these vary with the type of plate. The popularity of these plates speaks volumes about Maine residents’ love of personalization and creativity, thus making it a very much in-demand feature in car registration.
Maine License Plates Laws and Regulations
There are a lot of stipulations on display, condition, and renewal of license plates in this State. For example, Maine requires that owners of vehicles must have front and rear plates; however, motorcycles need to display only the rear plate.
License plates should always be clean and functional, displaying all information in a readable fashion, not being damaged or obscured in any way. Certain illegible license plates may be subject to fines or other penalties.
License plates in Maine also need to be renewed annually or biennially depending on the registration period the vehicle owner has decided to go with. Renewal can be made by using online services, by mail, or in person at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles Branch office. These measures are put in place to ensure vehicle identification is appropriate and current to aid in highway safety and to assist law enforcement efforts.
History and Design of Maine License Plates
History and design go to make the Maine license plates very interesting not only to its native residents but also to the collector. Over these many decades since the turn of the 20th Century, the Maine plates have seen many changes. Noted for some of the most distinctive plates, its plate images represent its natural beauty well. One very well-recognized plate was with the Chickadee and Pine cone design and this was issued for the first time in 1999.
Generally speaking, Maine license plates are a badge of state pride and its natural scenery and wildlife. The state also offers specialty plates that represent causes such as environmental protection, tribute to veterans, and state universities. Collectors, of course, love older plates for their historical value, but for Mainers, modern plates are a continued source of pride, too.
Specialty Plates for Causes and Organizations
Specialty plates in Maine rank among those subjects that have taken the interest of many people, so they allow vehicle owners to see how they will be able to support different causes and organizations. In essence, the specialty plates are for functional purposes: they raise money for causes besides increasing awareness. For example, Maine does issue conservation-themed specialty license plates; an example is the “Conservation” plate that goes toward state parks and other environmental programs.
Veterans and military members may also apply for license plates reflecting their service; these have a unique design and several benefits associated with them, such as lower registration fees. Specialty plates are also available for universities, sports teams, and charitable organizations. With a specialty plate, Mainers can show support for something dear to their hearts while making their car uniquely their own.
Renewal and Replacement of Maine License Plates
One of the most asked about processes involves license plate renewals and replacements. In order to keep them current and valid, license plates are required to go through periodic renewal. Renewals for vehicle tags in Maine are permitted to take place either every year or every other year, and the process to do so can be completed online, by mail, or in person through a BMV office.
Replace it as soon as possible in case it gets lost, stolen or destroyed to avoid being on the wrong side of the law. The process for replacement would require one to file a request with the Maine BMV and make a payment. One is also encouraged to inform the police about stolen plates to avoid misuse. The result of proper renewal and replacement procedures will be license plates remaining in good condition and continuing to serve their purpose in vehicle identification and road safety.