To get your Maine DMV learner’s permit, you must be at least 15 years old and pass a vision screening and the written permit knowledge test. The permit test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions covering state laws, safe driving practices, driving under the influence, handling emergencies, sharing the road, emergencies, and vehicle maintenance, as outlined in the state’s Maine DMV 2025 Driver’s Manual. To pass, you must score at least 80% (24 out of 30 questions). If you fail, you must wait until the next business day and may need to pay a retest fee. Using our practice tests makes sure that doesn’t happen.
Our free online Maine DMV Permit Practice Test is updated for February 2025 and mimics real exam conditions based on the state manual. Immediate feedback is provided on any missed questions instead of at the end of the assessment.
The Learner’s Permit is the first phase of Maine’s Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program for drivers under 21. At ages 15–17, you can apply for a learner’s permit, but you must pass the written knowledge test and vision screening. With a permit, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 20 years old and has held their license for two or more years. Once you’ve turned 16, have held the permit for at least six months, have completed an approved driver education course, and logged 70 hours of additional driving (10 at night), you can take the road skills test and apply for an intermediate license (upon passing). For the first 270 days, you may not carry passengers other than immediate family members unless supervised as above. After turning 18 with no violations within the past year, you can upgrade to an unrestricted license.
If you’re 18 – 21 years old, you must pass through the GDL phases, including the six-month permit holding phase, before taking the skills test.
Once you’re ready to apply for the permit, go to the DMV with proof of identity (birth certificate, passport), Social Security card (or W2 with number listed), proof of residence (utility bill, bank statement), and signed consent (in person) from a parent, guardian, adult spouse, or adult boss if you’re under 18. Submit the documents, pass a vision screening, pay the fee, and pass the official written test.