Official Maine Guide

Maine SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying Maine BMV requirements. Compare rates, understand high liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

Min. Liability
50/100/25
$50k BI / $100k Total / $25k PD
Mandate Term
3 Years
From date of reinstatement
Filing Fee
~$15 - $25
One-time administrative cost

How Maine SR-22 Filing Works

In Maine, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). It provides legal proof that you carry the state's minimum required liability coverage (50/100/25), which is higher than in many other states.

The "Re-Suspension" Trap

If your policy cancels or lapses for even one day, your carrier is legally required to file an SR-26 Notice. This triggers an immediate suspension of your license and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in ME?

  • OUI Conviction: Operating Under the Influence is the primary reason for a mandatory SR-22 filing.
  • Uninsured Accident: Being involved in an accident while driving without valid liability insurance.
  • Excessive Violations: Accumulating too many points or serious moving violations within a specific timeframe.
  • License Suspension: Any administrative or court-ordered hold requiring proof of financial responsibility for reinstatement.

Don't Own a Car in Maine?

You can still get reinstated! A Maine Non-Owner SR-22 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow or rent. It satisfies the Maine BMV requirement and is typically much cheaper than a standard owner's policy.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The ME Reinstatement Timeline

1

Verify Requirements

Access the Maine BMV online services portal to confirm your eligibility date and required reinstatement fees.

2

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 50/100/25 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to Augusta.

3

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory $50 reinstatement fee online or by mail to clear the administrative hold on your license.

4

License Reissued

Once the SR-22 is logged and the fee is processed, your driving privileges are officially restored in the state system.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while suspended or letting your SR-22 lapse carries severe penalties in Maine:

First Offense

Suspension Extension

Court Fines

Up to $1,000 + Surcharges

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Class E Crime Conviction

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Maine Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Maine?
Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the Maine BMV. This is separate from your monthly premium.
Can I drive out of state with a ME SR-22?
Yes. Your Maine SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must maintain the Maine-specific limits (50/100/25) to remain compliant with state law.
What is the difference between SR-22 and normal insurance?
An SR-22 is not insurance; it is a certificate of financial responsibility attached to your policy that notifies the BMV if your coverage lapses.
Can I get a Non-Owner policy in ME?
Yes, Maine allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. It is often the most cost-effective way to restore your license if you do not own a vehicle.
Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?
Yes. Maine law requires insurers to notify the BMV immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an instant automatic suspension.
How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?
Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the Maine BMV to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.