How to Pass Your Maine Road Test: A Complete Guide

Passing your Maine road test is a vital step on the way to obtaining your license. If you’re not prepared, this exam can be extremely difficult – and if you fail, it can delay your progress by multiple weeks (or even months).

Luckily, we have you covered! In this blog, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the road test and how you can get a passing score the very first time.

Maine Road Test Requirements

Like all parts on the licensing process, there are multiple requirements before you’re allowed to take the road test. Make sure that you have completed all of the following before scheduling your test.

1 – Written Exam

The first thing you need to do is pass the written exam. The test consists of 30 questions and you’ll be required to answer 24 correctly to pass. If you’re having trouble studying for the exam using more traditional methods, try an interactive learning solution like Zutobi.

2 – Learner Permit

After passing the written exam, you’ll be granted your learner permit. This will allow you to practice driving and prepare for the road exam.

• If you are under 21, you will need to hold your permit for at least six months.
• Those over the age of 21 do not have a minimum holding period and can request a road test whenever they feel prepared.

3 – Road Test Request Card

Unlike most states, the Maine BMV requires drivers to submit a road test request card before they’ll be allowed to take it. If you are under 21, you must include a completed driving log with your card. Once this request is received, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles will schedule your test at a location next to you on the next available date.

Send your request card to the following address:

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles

29 State House Station

Augusta, Maine 04333-0029

Exceptions to Prerequisites

If you are a new resident moving to the state of Maine, you are exempt from the above requirements. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles will grant you a license transfer if you provide the necessary documentation, pass a vision screening, and turn in your out-of-state license. Detailed information about the process is available here.

Getting Your Car Ready for the Maine Driving Test

To take the road test in Maine, you will be required to bring your own vehicle. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles will not provide you with one. In addition to a valid license and registration, the car you bring to the exam will have to be in good working condition and safe for both the driver and its passengers.

The BMV clerk will also assess the vehicle to make sure it has the following:

• Properly inflated tires
• Operable brake lights
• Clear and unobstructed windows/windshields
• Working seat belts
• Working speedometer
• Working braking system
• No safety warning indicator lights on dashboard

Overall, it is important to ensure your vehicle is in good working order. If it is deemed unsafe by the BMV, you will not be permitted to take the driving test and will have to reschedule.

What to Bring to the Test

Like all visits to the BMV, there are certain documents you’ll need to prepare ahead of time to ensure a smooth appointment. You’ll need to bring a vehicle with valid insurance and registration, your road test appointment notice, and learner’s permit.

To ensure a prompt start to your exam, it is important to show up about 15 minutes early. Late arrivals could result in you having to request a new appointment, which could take multiple weeks or months.

What Maneuvers are Tested on Road Test in Maine?

On the exam, you will be tested on your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and perform key driving maneuvers.

Below we have compiled a checklist of maneuvers that are frequently tested on the driving test in Maine. Make sure to read through the list carefully and practice these maneuvers at home until you feel comfortable doing them.

• Reversing back in a straight line
• Right and left turns
• Maintaining lane position
• Keeping following distance
• Obeying traffic laws
• Observing traffic signs and signals
• Checking blindspots
• Three point turns

After Your Maine Driving Test

If you passed your road test, congratulations! The BMV staff will issue you a temporary license on-site. Be sure to double-check this credential to ensure all of the personal information listed is correct. If it is not, be sure to warn a staff member immediately. Your new license will be sent to the address on file.

If You Fail Your Test

If you fail your exam – there’s no need to worry. Make sure to pay close attention to the feedback offered by your test examiner. Those will be the main things to practice while preparing for your next attempt. When you’re ready, submit a new road test request card and you’ll be scheduled for the next available exam.

That’s it!

Now you know how to pass your Maine road test! As you can see, it is not nearly as difficult as it may seem. Be sure to reference this guide early and often to ensure you have all the information you need to successfully pass.

If you need any help studying for your upcoming exams, then Zutobi is the perfect study guide with online practice tests, a summarized handbook, and practical driving tips that will help you immensely during the actual road exam.