29-A M.R.S. § 451 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 451
29-A §451. Issuance and form of registration plates
Status: in_force

1. Authority to issue registration plates. The Secretary of State shall provide a new general issue of registration plates periodically as determined by the Legislature. Each new general issue must be easily distinguishable by color from the preceding general issue. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1-A. New general issue. The Secretary of State shall provide for a new general issue of registration plates and shall begin issuing the new plates no later than May 1, 2025. The Secretary of State shall complete the issuance of new plates before July 31, 2026 to all vehicles required to obtain new plates. [PL 2023, c. 421, §1 (RPR).]

1-B. New dealer plate issue. The Secretary of State shall provide for a new issue of dealer plates and shall begin issuing the new dealer plates no later than December 31, 2000 to all dealers licensed pursuant to chapter 9, subchapter III . [PL 1999, c. 473, Pt. G, §1 (AMD).]

2. Furnishing registration plates. The Secretary of State shall furnish registration plates, without charge, with each registration except to dealers, manufacturers and holders of transporter registration plates. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Annual registration plates or devices. The Secretary of State shall issue new registration plates or a suitable device in lieu of new registration plates each calendar year. The plate or device must clearly indicate the year or period for which it is issued. The Secretary of State may issue permanent registration plates designed to provide for renewal by changing the expiration date without issuing new registration plates. A device attached to the appropriate vehicle or registration plate is proper registration for the period specified. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Registration plate design. Registration plates must be designed as follows. A. Registration plates must bear the year of issue or the last 2 numerals of that year and the word "Maine" in letters of at least 3/4 inch in height centered at the top of the registration plate. [PL 2023, c. 421, §2 (AMD).] B. Except on motorcycle plates, registration plate numbers may not be substantially less than 3 inches high. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. On registration plates issued for private use, the word "Vacationland" must be centered at the bottom, except, when the Secretary of State determines that for other than passenger vehicles, that space may be used for class identifiers. [PL 1997, c. 776, §8 (AMD).] D. [PL 1995, c. 645, Pt. C, §2 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 645, Pt. C, §16 (AFF); MRSA T. 29-A §451, sub-§4, ¶ D (RP).] [PL 2023, c. 421, §2 (AMD).]

4-A. New general issue design. Notwithstanding subsection 4 , the design of registration plates issued pursuant to subsection 1‑A is governed by this subsection. A. Registration plates must bear the year of issue or the last 2 numerals of that year and the word "Maine" in letters of at least 3/4 inch in height centered at the top of the registration plate. [PL 2023, c. 421, §3 (RPR).] B. Except on motorcycle plates, registration numbers may not be substantially less than 3 inches high. [PL 2023, c. 421, §3 (RPR).] C. On registration plates issued for private use and trucks, the word "Vacationland" must be centered at the bottom in letters not less than 3/4 inch in height, except when the Secretary of State determines that, for other than passenger vehicles, that space may be used for class codes. [PL 2023, c. 421, §3 (RPR).] D. A new registration plate must have a buff neutral shaded background that does not interfere with any identifying characteristics on the plate, a distinct border and: (1) Blue identification numbers and letters, a representation of an eastern white pine tree and a blue star representing the North Star on the side of the plate; or (2) Blue identification numbers and letters with no other features. [PL 2023, c. 421, §3 (RPR).] E. The Secretary of State shall devise, with the advice of the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters, a numbering system suitable for a new general issue of registration plates. [PL 2023, c. 421, §3 (RPR).] [PL 2023, c. 421, §3 (RPR).]

5. Special classes of registration plates. A vehicle required to be registered in a special class under this Title may display only the number plates designed for that special class of registration. If a vehicle registered for hire is disabled due to an accident or mechanical malfunction, another vehicle of the same passenger capacity may be substituted temporarily. The substitute vehicle is subject to the financial responsibility requirements in section 1611 . Notwithstanding this subsection, the Secretary of State may issue a temporary credential in lieu of a special class of registration plate. The Secretary of State may adopt rules to implement this subsection. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2003, c. 434, §7 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 434, §37 (AFF).]

6. Plates to be manufactured at Bolduc Correctional Facility. The Secretary of State or the duly designated official in charge of vehicle registration shall purchase and cause to be installed at the Bolduc Correctional Facility the necessary equipment and materials for the production of all vehicle registration plates used in the State. Only plates that cannot be produced at Bolduc Correctional Facility and plates for which anticipated demand is below a minimum number determined by the Secretary of State may be purchased for state use. The Warden of the State Prison has charge of operations at the Bolduc Correctional Facility relative to the manufacture of all plates made for the State. The Warden of the State Prison, with the consent of the Secretary of State, may employ for limited periods of time a supervisor for the purpose of instructing residents in the operation of making such plates. For purposes of this subsection, "resident" means an individual who resides in the Bolduc Correctional Facility. [PL 2023, c. 421, §4 (AMD).]

7. Rules. The Secretary of State may adopt rules to protect the integrity of registration plates or provide for the issue of replacement plates. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2303 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2303
29-A §2303. School bus operator requirements
Status: in_force

1. Requirements. Except as provided in subsection 6 , the Secretary of State may not issue a school bus operator endorsement unless the applicant: A. Holds a valid driver's license for operation of the class vehicle and has at least one year's experience as a licensed motor vehicle operator; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Is at least 21 years of age and has held a driver's license for at least one year; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. [PL 2017, c. 229, §33 (RP).] D. Is qualified as a driver under the motor carrier safety regulations of the Federal Highway Administration, if that person or that person's employer is subject to those regulations; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. Passes an examination of the person's ability to operate the specific vehicle that will be driven as a school bus or a vehicle of comparable type; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. Has not had a license revoked pursuant to chapter 23, subchapter V , within the preceding 6-year period; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] G. Has not received an OUI conviction, as defined in section 2401, subsection 9 , within the preceding 10-year period. [PL 1995, c. 645, Pt. B, §17 (AMD).] [PL 2017, c. 229, §33 (AMD).]

2. Current endorsement holders. The Secretary of State shall suspend or revoke a school operator's endorsement as provided in section 2452 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Annual physical. The applicant must pass an annual physical examination at the cost of the employer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Safety and driver training. The Department of Education shall, within available resources, develop, certify and administer regional school bus driver training programs and assist school administrative units in school bus safety and driver training. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Fee. A fee of $20 must accompany the initial application. The fee for a subsequent examination is $20. [PL 2017, c. 283, Pt. C, §4 (AMD); PL 2017, c. 283, Pt. C, §6 (AFF).]

6. Waiver of skill and road test. The Secretary of State may waive the skill and road tests for an applicant who has a valid authorization from another state to operate a school bus. The applicant for whom the skill and road tests are waived must comply with all other applicable state and federal requirements governing the issuance of school bus operator endorsements. [PL 1995, c. 310, §2 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 663 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 663
29-A §663. Transfer on death of spouse
Status: in_force

On the death of a married resident owner of a motor vehicle registered in this State, ownership of the motor vehicle passes to the surviving spouse if no will provides otherwise and permission is granted by a lienholder. Registration and title of the vehicle must be transferred to the surviving spouse at no fee and is exempt from the purchase and use tax. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1553 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1553
29-A §1553. Administration
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall administer and enforce this chapter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 656 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 656
29-A §656. Secretary of State to check identification number
Status: in_force

Upon receiving an application for a certificate of title or certificate of salvage, the Secretary of State shall check the identification number in the application against the records of certificates issued and of stolen or converted vehicles. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 952 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 952
29-A §952. Requirements
Status: in_force

1. Facilities. To qualify for a dealer license, an applicant must maintain the following facilities and personnel: A. Facilities for the display of vehicles being handled; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A repair department for repair of vehicles; [PL 2011, c. 556, §7 (AMD).] C. Sufficient tools and equipment for servicing of the vehicles handled; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. A suitable office in which business is conducted and records of the business are kept; and [PL 2021, c. 216, §24 (AMD).] E. At least one mechanic, who may be the owner, who has a thorough knowledge of the vehicles being handled. [PL 2021, c. 216, §25 (AMD).] F. [PL 2021, c. 216, §26 (RP).] [PL 2021, c. 216, §§24-26 (AMD).]

1-A. Display license. A dealer shall display the dealer's license at the dealer's place of business. [PL 2021, c. 216, §27 (NEW).]

1-B. Vehicles. A dealer shall: A. On all used motor vehicles offered for sale, ensure that the written vehicle history statement is conspicuously affixed to the vehicle pursuant to Title 10, section 1475 ; [PL 2021, c. 660, §3 (AMD).] B. For all vehicles sold, comply with the provisions of Title 10, chapter 217 ; and [PL 2021, c. 660, §3 (AMD).] C. For a motor vehicle sold at retail to the end consumer, engrave the vehicle identification number on the catalytic converter in a location that is visible from the underside of the motor vehicle. The vehicle identification number engraved on the catalytic converter must be legible. This paragraph does not require a dealer to engrave the vehicle identification number on the catalytic converter if: (1) The motor vehicle is sold at wholesale; or (2) The catalytic converter is not in a location where it is clearly visible from the underside of the motor vehicle. [PL 2021, c. 660, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §3 (AMD).]

2. Exemptions. A person who held used car registration plates on January 1, 1964 is exempt from subsection 1, paragraphs B and E . This exemption expires if that person sells or discontinues that business and subsequently becomes licensed again on or after January 1, 1985. A vehicle manufacturer who does not retail vehicles directly to the public is exempt from the requirements under subsection 1 , except the requirement under paragraph D . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Penalty. A person who fails to comply with subsections 1 , 1‑A and 1‑B commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2021, c. 216, §29 (AMD).]

4. Display. [PL 2021, c. 216, §30 (RP).]
29-A M.R.S. § 954 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 954
29-A §954. Special dealer licenses and plates
Status: in_force

1. Equipment. Equipment dealer plates and a license may be issued to a person engaged in the manufacturing or buying and selling of: A. Farm tractors with engines in excess of 40 horsepower; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Farm equipment; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Construction vehicles or equipment; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. Industrial vehicles or equipment. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Motorcycle. Motorcycle dealer plates and a license may be issued to a person engaged in the manufacturing or buying and selling of new or used motorcycles. [PL 2005, c. 577, §13 (AMD).]

3. Light trailer. Light trailer dealer plates and a license may be issued to a person engaged in the manufacturing or buying and selling of trailers or semitrailers with an unladen gross weight of 3,000 pounds or less. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Trailer. Heavy trailer dealer plates and a license may be issued to a person engaged in the manufacturing or buying and selling of mobile homes or of trailers or semitrailers with an unladen weight of more than 3,000 pounds. Mobile home dealers are exempt from the requirements of this section. [PL 1997, c. 776, §30 (AMD).]

5. Transporter. A garage owner, towing business, body shop, finance company, bank, motor vehicle auction business, motor vehicle rental company, recycler or repossession company licensed by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection or any public or nonprofit organization as described in section 951, subsection 4 may be issued transporter plates and a license to transport a vehicle owned by or in the custody of that owner or business. A. The holder may use this plate only if the vehicle is accompanied by the owner or the owner's employee. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A transporter plate may not be: (1) Used in lieu of registration plates; (2) Loaned to another; (3) Used for personal reasons; or (4) Used on a towing vehicle, except for a drive-away saddlemount vehicle transporter combination. [PL 2007, c. 306, §7 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 634, §14 (AMD).]

6. Trailer transit plate. A business that delivers or services mobile homes or tiny homes, leases or transports storage trailers or transports light trailers, modular homes or frames for transporting modular homes may apply for a trailer transit license and plate. The transit plate may not be loaned, used in place of registration plates on another vehicle, used for personal reasons or used on the towing vehicle. Issuance of a trailer transit license and plate does not exempt the holder from compliance with any state law or municipal ordinance governing the movement of mobile homes, tiny homes, storage trailers, modular homes or frames for transporting modular homes or light trailers over the highways of this State and does not exempt the holder from required permits or certificates prior to moving the vehicles. Trailer transit plates issued pursuant to this subsection may be used only subject to the following conditions. A. A storage trailer must be empty during transportation. [PL 2019, c. 397, §15 (NEW).] B. A light trailer may be transported with a load appropriate for the light trailer, as long as the load is owned by or in the custody of the transporting business. [PL 2019, c. 397, §15 (NEW).] C. A light trailer may be transported with a trailer transit plate only if the business owner or an employee of the business accompanies the vehicle transporting the light trailer. [PL 2019, c. 397, §15 (NEW).] Fees for trailer transit licenses and plates are established in section 852 . Trailer transit licenses are exempt from section 951, subsection 6 . For purposes of this subsection, "business" means a corporation, firm, partnership, joint venture, sole proprietorship or other commercial entity. For the purposes of this subsection, "modular home" has the same meaning as in Title 30‑A, section 4358, subsection 1, paragraph A , subparagraph (2). A person who violates this subsection commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2019, c. 650, §11 (AMD).]

7. Expiration date. A trailer transit plate under subsection 6 expires annually on the last day of the month of March. [PL 2019, c. 397, §15 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2074 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2074
29-A §2074. Rates of speed
Status: in_force

An operator shall operate a vehicle at a careful and prudent speed not greater than is reasonable and proper having due regard to the traffic, surface and width of the way and of other conditions then existing. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Rates of speed. Except when conditions or other regulations require a lower speed, the following are maximum rates of speed: A. Fifteen miles per hour when traveling in a school zone: (1) During recess; (2) When children are going to or leaving school during school opening or closing hours. For purposes of this paragraph, school opening and closing hours are 1/2 hour before and 1/2 hour after the beginning of the school day and 1/2 hour before and 1/2 hour after the end of the school day; (3) When school speed limit signs are flashing during school opening or closing hours; or (4) At other times designated by a municipal traffic ordinance that regulates town ways that are classified as local by the Department of Transportation in accordance with the federal functional classification system. [PL 2001, c. 145, §3 (RPR).] B. Fifteen miles per hour when approaching within 50 feet and in traversing an intersection when the operator's view is obstructed except when preference is given to through movement of traffic in one direction by "stop" signs or other traffic control devices or by direction of a law enforcement officer. An operator's view is considered obstructed when at any time during the last 50 feet of an approach to an intersection there is not a clear and uninterrupted view of the intersection and of the traffic on all ways entering the intersection for a distance of 200 feet from it; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Twenty-five miles per hour in a business or residential district or built-up portion unless otherwise posted; and [PL 2025, c. 199, §1 (AMD).] D. Forty-five miles per hour on all other public ways unless otherwise posted. [PL 2025, c. 199, §2 (AMD).] E. [PL 2025, c. 199, §3 (RP).] F. [PL 2005, c. 577, §31 (RP).] [PL 2025, c. 199, §§1-3 (AMD).]

1-A. Emergency zone. A person shall operate a vehicle at a careful and prudent speed not greater than is reasonable and proper when approaching or passing through an emergency zone, having due regard for the safety of any individual present in the emergency zone and the physical characteristics of the emergency zone. For purposes of this subsection, "emergency zone" means any portion of a way where at least one stationary ambulance or emergency medical service, fire department, hazardous material response or police vehicle is located with emergency lights in use for the purpose of rendering medical assistance or responding to an event when the situation presents a risk of harm to a person using the way or an area immediately adjacent to the way. An emergency zone may be identified by any method reasonably visible to an approaching operator, including, but not limited to, vehicle emergency lights, signs, traffic cones, flaggers or mobile lighting. A person who violates this subsection commits a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of not less than $250. [PL 2009, c. 554, §1 (NEW).]

2. Compact areas. The compact or built-up portion of a municipality is the territory contiguous to a way that is built up with structures situated less than 150 feet apart for a distance of at least 1/4 of a mile. Municipal officers may designate a compact or built-up portion by appropriate signs. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Criminal offense. A person commits a Class E crime if that person operates a motor vehicle at a speed that exceeds the maximum rate of speed by 30 miles per hour or more. The complaint for a violation of a speed limit must specify the speed at which the defendant is alleged to have operated a motor vehicle. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. B, §8 (AMD).]

3-A. Minimum fine. A person who operates a motor vehicle on the Maine Turnpike or the Interstate Highway System at a speed that exceeds the posted speed by less than 30 miles per hour commits a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of not less than $50. [PL 2013, c. 107, §2 (AMD).]

3-B. Fine doubled. The penalty for a violation of subsection 1, paragraph A is twice the amount of the fine designated in accordance with Title 4, section 164, subsection 12 for a speeding violation under section 2073 involving a similar excessive rate of speed. [PL 1999, c. 308, §1 (NEW).]

4. Exception. This section does not apply to the operation of a vehicle: A. In racing events and exhibitions at which the public does not have access to the operating area; or [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §106 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).] B. On private land to which the public does not have access when used by or with authorization of the landowner. [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §106 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).] [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §106 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2396 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 21 / Section 2396
29-A §2396. Certain substances on public ways
Status: in_force

1. Injurious substances. A person may not place on a way a tack, nail, wire, scrap metal, glass, crockery or other substance that may injure feet, tires or wheels. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §75 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

1-A. Duty to clear way. If a person accidentally places an injurious substance on a way, that person shall immediately make all reasonable efforts to clear the way of that substance. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §76 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

2. Unsecured load. A person may not operate on a public way a vehicle with a load that is not fastened, secured, confined or loaded to reasonably prevent a portion from falling off. For the purposes of this section, "load" includes, but is not limited to, firewood, pulpwood, logs, bolts, snow, ice or other material, but does not include loose hay, pea vines, straw, grain or cornstalks. When the load consists of sawdust, shavings or wood chips, and a reasonable effort has been made to completely cover the load, minor amounts blown from the vehicle while in transit do not constitute a violation. A violation of this section is a traffic infraction subject to a fine of not less than $150 nor more than $500. [PL 2023, c. 107, §2 (AMD).]

3. Gravel. A load of gravel, sand, crushed stone, rubbish, building debris or trash must be covered or otherwise secured or confined to prevent any portion of the load from falling from or spilling out of the vehicle. [PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AMD).]

4. Snow. A person may not place and allow to remain on a public way snow or slush that has not accumulated there naturally. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1802 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1802
29-A §1802. Maximum charge for repair
Status: in_force

1. Written designation by customer. Before a repair facility begins repairing a customer's motor vehicle, the customer may designate in writing a specific amount of charges for repair in excess of which the customer does not agree to be liable without further specific agreement, either oral or written. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. No liability without agreement. A customer is not liable for a charge in excess of the specific amount designated in accordance with subsection 1 without further specific oral or written agreement. A repair facility shall charge a customer by using the same labor rate per hour and shop supplies calculation as is used in any estimate the repair facility provides. [PL 2005, c. 189, §2 (AMD).]

3. Shop supplies. A repair facility may bill for shop supplies calculated as a percentage of labor or by other calculation, if disclosed to the customer, as a single line item. [PL 2005, c. 189, §3 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2114 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2114
29-A §2114. Diesel-powered Motor Vehicle Emission Opacity Testing Program
Status: in_force

1. Program established. The Diesel-powered Motor Vehicle Emission Opacity Testing Program, referred to in this section as the "program," is established within the Department of Environmental Protection. The Department of Environmental Protection shall administer the program in cooperation with the Department of Public Safety. [PL 1997, c. 786, §7 (NEW).]

2. Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Diesel-powered motor vehicle" refers only to a diesel-powered motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating of 18,000 or more pounds. "Diesel-powered motor vehicle" does not include a truck registered as a farm truck. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §61 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. "Opacity" means the degree of light-obscuring capability of emissions of visible air contaminants expressed as a percentage. Complete obscuration must be expressed as 100% opacity. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §61 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §61 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

3. Testing and repair requirement. A person who causes operation of a diesel-powered motor vehicle shall comply with the requirements of the program, including emission opacity standards and testing and repair requirements. Owners or operators of diesel-powered motor vehicles that have failed opacity standards for the first time have 30 days from the date that the operator was notified of the failure of the test to certify to the department that repairs were made to bring the vehicle into compliance with the opacity standards established pursuant to this section. If certification is not made within 30 days, then owners or operators commit a traffic infraction. A person may not be found in violation of this section until after January 1, 2000. Only diesel-powered motor vehicles identified by certified inspectors as potential violators of the program's emission opacity standards are subject to testing under this section. Inspectors must be certified pursuant to the procedures for certification specified in 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 60, Appendix A, Method 9. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §62 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

3-A. Penalties. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. A person who violates this section commits a traffic infraction for which a fine of $250 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §63 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. A person who violates this section after previously having been adjudicated as violating this section commits a traffic infraction for which a fine of $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §63 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §63 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Standards and procedures. The Board of Environmental Protection shall adopt rules, which are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II‑A , that establish standards and procedures to continue the program. These rules must include the following: A. Emission opacity standards for diesel-powered motor vehicles that are consistent with emission opacity standards for diesel-powered motor vehicles recommended by an interstate association of air quality control divisions in the northeast states; [PL 1997, c. 786, §7 (NEW).] B. Standards and procedures, including testing methods and standards for test equipment, for safe and effective roadside testing of diesel-powered motor vehicles that operate on public ways of the State for the purpose of enforcing compliance with emission opacity standards; [PL 1997, c. 786, §7 (NEW).] C. Standards and procedures for the administration and enforcement of the program. The rules may establish reciprocity agreements with other states that recognize enforcement actions related to diesel-powered motor vehicle testing programs in other states; [PL 1999, c. 356, §1 (AMD).] D. Repair requirements and standards and procedures for certification of repairs; and [PL 1999, c. 356, §1 (AMD).] E. Standards and procedures for the enforcement of violations and the monitoring and certification of repairs made to bring a vehicle into compliance pursuant to this section. [PL 1999, c. 356, §1 (NEW).] [PL 1999, c. 356, §1 (AMD).]

5. Educational program. A person who causes operation of a diesel-powered motor vehicle that does not comply with the program's emission opacity standards must be given educational materials by the Department of Environmental Protection regarding the environmental and other benefits of a vehicle that is in compliance with the standards set forth in subsection 4 . [PL 1997, c. 786, §7 (NEW).]

6. Implementation. [PL 1999, c. 356, §1 (RP).]

7. Definition. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §64 (RP); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1918 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1918
29-A §1918. Regrooved tires
Status: in_force

A person commits a traffic infraction if that person distributes, has for sale, offers for sale, sells or uses on a motor vehicle a pneumatic tire that has been regrooved below the original tread depth, unless that tire was originally manufactured with extra undertread material. [PL 1999, c. 771, Pt. C, §13 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 771, Pt. D, §§1, 2 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1905-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1905-A
29-A §1905-A. Turn signal
Status: in_force

1. Requirement. Except as provided in subsection 3 , a motor vehicle, tiny home, trailer or semitrailer must be equipped with electric flashing turn signal lamps. A motor vehicle must emit white or amber light from the turn signals to the front of the vehicle and a motor vehicle, trailer or semitrailer must emit amber or red light from the turn signals to the rear of the vehicle. [PL 2019, c. 650, §14 (AMD).]

2. Vehicles physically connected. When a vehicle that is being operated is physically connected to another vehicle, only the last vehicle must carry turn signals to the rear. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).]

3. Vehicles manufactured without turn signal. Automobiles and trucks less than 80 inches in width, manufactured or assembled prior to January 1, 1953 need not be equipped with electric turn signal lamps. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).]

4. Exception for farm tractors. This section does not apply to unregistered farm tractors. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. A, §2 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1474 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1474
29-A §1474. Executive head defined
Status: in_force

As used in the compact, with reference to this State, the term "executive head" means the Governor. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2106 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2106
29-A §2106. Tampering with odometer
Status: in_force

1. Odometer. A person is guilty of a Class C offense if that person: A. Disconnects, changes or tampers with the odometer of a motor vehicle with the intent to misrepresent or change the number of miles indicated on the odometer; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. When the odometer reading differs from the number of miles a vehicle has been driven, knowingly offers for sale that motor vehicle without disclosing that the actual mileage is unknown or is known to be different than the odometer reading. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2005, c. 433, §18 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 433, §28 (AFF).]

2. Service and repair. Nothing in this section prevents the repair or replacement of an odometer, as long as the odometer mileage remains the same after the service, repair or replacement. If the odometer is incapable of registering the same mileage after the repair or replacement, the odometer must be adjusted to read zero and a notice provided by the Secretary of State must be attached to the left doorframe of the vehicle by the owner or the owner's agent or by an authorized agent of the Secretary of State. The notice must specify the mileage prior to repair or replacement of the odometer and the date of repair or replacement. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Violation. A person commits a Class D crime if that person fails to attach a notice as required under subsection 2 or removes or alters a notice. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Unfair trade practice. A violation of this section constitutes an unfair trade practice under Title 5, chapter 10 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1910 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1910
29-A §1910. Rules governing lights on vehicles
Status: in_force

The Chief of the State Police may adopt rules governing the adjustment, use and operation of lights on vehicles. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1769 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1769
29-A §1769. Rules
Status: in_force

1. Scope. The Chief of the State Police may adopt rules: A. For the administration and enforcement of this chapter; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. To designate periods of time during which owners of vehicles must display or produce a certificate of inspection; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Concerning the inspection of registered special mobile equipment not ordinarily operated over the highway. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1-A. Delay in effective date. Except for emergency rules adopted under Title 5, section 8054 , rules adopted under this section take effect 30 days after filing with the Secretary of State under Title 5, section 8056, subsection 1, paragraph B . [PL 2007, c. 135, §1 (NEW); PL 2007, c. 135, §2 (AFF).]

2. Review of rules by Legislature. Rules adopted under this section are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . [PL 2003, c. 340, §2 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1606 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1606
29-A §1606. Filing
Status: in_force

A policy may not be certified as proof of financial responsibility until a copy of the form of the policy has been on file with the Superintendent of Insurance for at least 30 days or the Superintendent of Insurance has approved in writing the form of the policy. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Form. The Superintendent of Insurance shall approve a form of policy that contains: A. The name and address of the insured; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A description of the vehicle covered; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. The premium charges; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. The policy period; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. The limits of liability; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. An agreement that insurance is provided under this subchapter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Required provisions. Even if not expressed, a policy is subject to the following provisions. A. The liability of a company under a policy must become absolute when the loss or damage covered by the policy occurs. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Satisfaction by the insured of a final judgment for that loss or damage may not be a condition precedent to the obligation of the company to make payment on account of the loss or damage. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. A policy may not be canceled or annulled by an agreement between the company and the insured after the insured has become liable for loss or damage. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. On recovery of a final judgment for a loss or damage specified in this section, if the judgment debtor at the accrual of the cause of action was insured against liability under a policy, the judgment creditor may have the insurance proceeds applied to satisfy the judgment. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. The policy, the written application and a rider or endorsement constitute the entire contract between the parties. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. If the death, insolvency or bankruptcy of the insured occurs within the policy period, the policy must cover the legal representatives of the insured during the unexpired portion. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Default judgment. When the defendant has defaulted, damages may not be assessed, except by special order of the court, until expiration of 30 days after the plaintiff gives notice of default to the company that issued the policy. Notice may be given by mail, postage prepaid, to the company that issued the policy or to its agent. If satisfied that the insured has failed to comply with the terms of the policy by failing to notify the company that issued the policy of an accident, the Secretary of State may revoke the insured's license and registration for an appropriate period. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Recovery may not be barred. A statement of the insured or principal or a violation of the policy may not operate to defeat or avoid the policy so as to bar recovery within the limit provided in the policy. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Cancellation of policy. A policy certified as proof of financial responsibility may not be canceled until at least 10 days after notice of cancellation has been filed in the office of the Secretary of State. A policy subsequently certified terminates on the effective date of certification the insurance previously certified with respect to a motor vehicle designated in both certificates. The company may specify on a certificate the expiration date of the policy. When an expiration date is provided, the policy is deemed terminated for purposes of this chapter on and after that date, unless that policy has been previously canceled or superseded. When an expiration date is not specified on the certificate, the policy continues until canceled or superseded in accordance with section 1605, subsection 5 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Company doing business in another state. A policy is not effective unless issued by a company authorized to do business in this State or a company authorized to do business in the state where the vehicle is registered or, in the case of an operator’s policy, the state where the operator resides. [PL 2009, c. 598, §35 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 405 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 405
29-A §405. Expiration dates
Status: in_force

1. Automobile, truck, truck tractor, motor home, moped, semitrailers not exceeding a gross vehicle weight of 2,000 pounds, special mobile equipment, tractor and camp trailer registration. Registration for an automobile, truck, truck tractor, motor home, moped, semitrailer not exceeding a gross vehicle weight of 2,000 pounds, special mobile equipment, tractor and camp trailer is as follows. A. A registration expires on the last day of the month one year from the month of issuance. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. When an application is made after the registration for the previous year has expired, the term of the renewal begins on the month of the issuance of the previous registration. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. A person who has a fleet of 5 or more motor vehicles may petition the Secretary of State for a common expiration date of all vehicle registrations. [PL 2001, c. 671, §5 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 167, §1 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 167, §7 (AFF).]

2. Other vehicles. All vehicles not governed by subsection 1 have registration periods from March 1st to the last day of February of the next calendar year. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Early display of plates. A number plate or suitable device furnished for the next registration period may be displayed on the first day of the month in which the current registration expires. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Emergency. The Secretary of State may extend the expiration date of a registration under emergency conditions. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1753 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1753
29-A §1753. Inspection of commercial vehicles, trailers and semitrailers
Status: in_force

1. Inspection required. Except as provided in subsection 4 , a commercial motor vehicle that is required to be registered in this State, is used in intrastate or interstate commerce and has a gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds, including the gross vehicle weight rating or gross weight of any trailer or semitrailer, must be inspected annually pursuant to this chapter. Except as provided in subsection 4, a trailer or semitrailer that has a gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating greater than 7,000 pounds, independent of the towing vehicle, must be inspected annually. A trailer or semitrailer must also be inspected annually when: A. Engaged in interstate commerce and used with a motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds, including the gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating of a trailer or semitrailer and load; or [PL 2007, c. 348, §2 (NEW).] B. Except as provided in subsection 4 , engaged in intrastate commerce and used with a motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds, including the gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating of a trailer or semitrailer and load. [PL 2007, c. 348, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 348, §2 (AMD).]

2. Scope of inspection. The Chief of the State Police shall adopt rules for the inspection required by subsection 1 that meet the requirements of 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 396.17. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Fee. Except as provided in this subsection, the fee for an inspection under this section is based on the inspector's normal hourly labor charge and is due whether or not the vehicle passes inspection. A licensed inspection station shall post the hourly labor charge in a conspicuous place. The fee for an inspection under this section of a farm truck registered under section 505 is $45. The inspection fee is payable whether the vehicle passes inspection or not. [PL 2007, c. 190, §1 (AMD).]

4. Vehicles exempt from annual inspection. The following vehicles are exempt from the requirements of this section: A. When used exclusively in intrastate commerce, a trailer or semitrailer with a gross vehicle weight, including any load, that does not exceed 3,000 pounds; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. When used exclusively in intrastate commerce, a semitrailer designed and used exclusively for dispensing cable from reels attached to the semitrailer, commonly called a reel trailer, and any semitrailer designed and used exclusively to support the ends of poles being transported, commonly called a pole dolly, when the gross weight of the semitrailer and load does not exceed 12,000 pounds; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Any mobile home, empty storage trailer or empty storage semitrailer displaying a trailer transit plate in accordance with section 954, subsections 4 and 5 ; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. A farm truck or a fish truck exempted under section 1752 ; [PL 2007, c. 348, §3 (AMD).] E. A trailer or semitrailer displaying a valid certificate of inspection from another state or a federally approved commercial vehicle inspection program until the normal expiration of its certificate of inspection; and [PL 2007, c. 348, §4 (AMD).] F. A camp trailer. [PL 2007, c. 348, §5 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 348, §§3-5 (AMD).]

5. Proof of inspection. Proof of inspection must be shown either by a report that certifies that the inspection satisfies the requirements of this section or by an inspection sticker placed on the vehicle. If proof is shown by a report, the report must be produced on the demand of a law enforcement officer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2087 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2087
29-A §2087. Transporting dogs in open vehicle regulated (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 29-A, SECTION 2085)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 29-A, SECTION 2085)

Transporting dogs in an open vehicle is governed by this section. [RR 1999, c. 1, §40 (RAL).]

1. Definition. For the purposes of this section, "open vehicle" means a motor vehicle with a portion of the vehicle not enclosed by a top and windows or sides. "Open vehicle" includes, but is not limited to, pickup trucks and convertibles. [RR 1999, c. 1, §40 (RAL).]

2. Restrictions. A person driving an open vehicle may not transport a dog in the open portion of that vehicle on a public way unless the dog is protected in a manner that prevents the dog from falling or jumping or being thrown from the vehicle. [RR 1999, c. 1, §40 (RAL).]

3. Exceptions. Notwithstanding subsection 2 , this section does not apply to: A. A dog being transported by a farmer or a farm employee who is engaged in agricultural activities requiring the services of a dog; or [RR 1999, c. 1, §40 (RAL).] B. A hunting dog at a hunting site or being transported between hunting sites by a licensed hunter who is in possession of all applicable licenses and permits for the species being pursued during the legal season for that activity. [RR 1999, c. 1, §40 (RAL).] [RR 1999, c. 1, §40 (RAL).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2415 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2415
29-A §2415. Operating under foreign license during suspension or revocation in State prohibited
Status: in_force

Any resident or nonresident whose license has been suspended or revoked as provided in this Title commits the offense defined in section 2412‑A if that person operates a motor vehicle during that suspension or revocation under a license or permit issued by any other jurisdiction. This section does not apply to a person whose license has been revoked pursuant to the provisions in subchapter V . [PL 2001, c. 361, §31 (RPR).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1757 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1757
29-A §1757. Standard for rejection for nonfunctioning equipment
Status: in_force

A motor vehicle must be rejected for violation of the inspection standard for equipment if any equipment described in section 1751, subsection 2 does not function sufficiently for the safety of the general public or is loose and not securely attached to the vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1901 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1901
29-A §1901. General restriction
Status: in_force

A person may not use a vehicle on a public way or sell or equip a vehicle for use on a public way with aftermarket equipment contrary to this Title or contrary to the rules of the Chief of the State Police. [PL 2007, c. 121, §1 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 902 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 902
29-A §902. Action on application for dealer license
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall act on an application for an initial dealer license or a renewal of such a license within 90 days of receipt of the application. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

If the Secretary of State refuses to grant or renew a license, notice must be given to the applicant that an opportunity for hearing before the Secretary of State will be provided on request to show cause why that license should be granted or renewed. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2076 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2076
29-A §2076. Railroad or grade crossings
Status: in_force

1. Reduction of speed at crossing. An operator of a motor vehicle passing a sign provided for in Title 23, sections 1251 and 1252 shall, at a distance of 100 feet from the nearest rail of the crossing reduce the vehicle speed to a reasonable and proper rate, observe in each direction and proceed cautiously over the crossing. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Warning devices. An operator of a motor vehicle approaching a railroad crossing shall do so in a manner so that the operator will be able to stop if necessary. The operator shall stop the vehicle not less than 15 feet and not more than 50 feet from the nearest rail of the railroad track and may not proceed if: A. A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device warns of the approach of a train; [PL 2015, c. 89, §1 (NEW).] B. A crossing gate is lowered or a flagger gives or continues to give a signal or warning of the approach or passage of a train; [PL 2015, c. 89, §1 (NEW).] C. A train is visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing; or [PL 2015, c. 89, §1 (NEW).] D. A sign, device or law requires the vehicle to stop. [PL 2015, c. 89, §1 (NEW).] A vehicle may proceed across the track when the gates have been raised, the flagger indicates that no train is approaching or, if there is an electric or mechanical signal device, the operator has ascertained that no train is approaching. An operator proceeding by an electric or mechanical signal device shall use extra caution. [PL 2015, c. 89, §1 (AMD).]

3. Required stops. A person operating any of the following vehicles shall stop the vehicle at a grade crossing between 50 feet and 15 feet from the nearest rail, listen, look in each direction along the tracks for an approaching train and ascertain that no train is approaching: A. A bus transporting passengers; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A motor vehicle transporting any quantity of chlorine; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. A motor vehicle that, in accordance with 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 172, Subpart F, is required to be marked or placarded; [PL 1995, c. 247, §5 (AMD).] D. A cargo tank vehicle, whether loaded or empty, used to transport: (1) A hazardous material as defined in 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 170 to 189; or (2) A commodity under special permit in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Federal Regulations; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. A cargo tank vehicle transporting a commodity that at the time of loading has a temperature above its flash point as determined by 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 173.115. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §49 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

3-A. Yield at grade crossing. The operator of any of the vehicles listed in subsection 3 shall yield at a grade crossing to an approaching train. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §50 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Exceptions. An operator is not required to stop under this section: A. At a streetcar crossing or railroad tracks used exclusively for industrial switching purposes, within a business district; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. When a law enforcement officer or crossing flagger directs traffic to proceed; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. At an abandoned crossing that is marked with a sign indicating that the rail line is abandoned; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. At an industrial or spur line railroad grade crossing marked with a sign reading "exempt." An "exempt" sign must be erected by or with the consent of the Department of Transportation. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Penalty. The following penalties apply to violations of this section. A. An operator failing to comply with the requirements of subsection 1 or 2 commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §51 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. An operator who fails to comply with subsection 3 commits a Class E crime, which is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17‑A, section 34, subsection 4‑A . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §51 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] C. An operator commits a Class D crime if that operator is required to stop under subsection 3 and fails to stop for or yield the right-of-way to a train, engine or conveyance on the track. This crime is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17‑A, section 34, subsection 4‑A . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §51 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §51 (RPR); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

6. Abandoned or exempt crossings. The department may exempt a crossing after providing written notice within 30 days to the railroad and municipality in which the crossing is located or, after hearing, if requested within 30 days either by the railroad, municipality or 10 or more residents of the State. For each exempt crossing, the department may order and impose safety provisions as it determines expedient or necessary. For any exempt crossing that does not have automatic warning devices, the engineer shall stop the train prior to entering the crossing, and a member of the train crew shall stop all motor vehicle traffic prior to flagging the train through the crossing. For an exempt crossing with automatic warning devices, the engineer shall stop the train prior to entering the crossing and determine that all motor vehicle traffic has come to a stop prior to proceeding. Any exempt crossing must be posted with appropriate signs, which must be erected and maintained by the department. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2063-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2063-A
29-A §2063-A. Electric personal assistive mobility devices
Status: in_force

1. Limiting use. The department or a municipality with respect to a way under its jurisdiction may prohibit the operation of electric personal assistive mobility devices. Municipalities may impose limits on the operation of electric personal assistive mobility devices in accordance with the provisions set forth in Title 30‑A, section 3009 . [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

2. Operation. Electric personal assistive mobility devices may be operated anywhere pedestrians are permitted to travel, including, but not limited to, sidewalks, public ways with speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less and bike paths, unless such operation is prohibited by local ordinance or state or federal law. A person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device shall at all times yield the right of way to pedestrians. In addition, a person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device shall give an audible signal before overtaking or passing a pedestrian. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

3. Riding to the right. Electric personal assistive mobility devices may operate on public ways where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less only where a sidewalk or bike path is unavailable. During operation on a public way, a person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device shall ride it as far as practicable to the right side of the way, except when making a left turn, and shall cross public ways using crosswalks where available. This subsection does not apply in a municipality that makes other provisions for the location of traffic by bicycles, motorized scooters and electric personal assistive mobility devices. During operation on a public way at nighttime or at other times when motor vehicles are required to display headlights, a person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device shall wear reflective clothing or a reflective device that is visible at least 200 feet from the rear or shall employ an equivalent illumination device located on the electric personal assistive mobility device. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

4. Speed. On sidewalks, a person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device may not exceed speeds of 5 miles per hour. On public ways and bike paths, a person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device may not exceed speeds of 15 miles per hour. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

5. Hitching rides. A person operating an electric personal assistive mobility device may not attach it to a moving vehicle on a way. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

6. Lights. When in use at nighttime or at other times when motor vehicles are required to display headlights, an electric personal assistive mobility device must have: A. A lit front light that emits a white light visible from a distance of at least 200 feet to the front; [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).] B. A red reflector to the rear that is visible at least 200 feet to the rear; and [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).] C. At least one reflector strip prominently displayed on the device's tires. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).] [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

7. Stopping. An electric personal assistive mobility device must be equipped to enable the operator to stop the device within a reasonable distance. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]

8. Violations during 183-day trial period. [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW); MRSA T. 29-A §2063-A, sub-§8 (RP).]

9. Violations. Beginning 183 days after the effective date of this section, a person who violates this section commits a traffic infraction for which a forfeiture of not more than $10 may be adjudged for the first offense and a forfeiture of not more than $25 may be adjudged for the 2nd or subsequent offense. In addition to a forfeiture that may be adjudged, a person who commits a 3rd or subsequent offense may have that person's electric personal assistive mobility device impounded for no more than 30 days. [RR 2015, c. 1, §33 (COR).]

10. Registration. Electric personal assistive mobility devices are not subject to the requirements of chapter 5 . [PL 2001, c. 687, §16 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 558-B — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 558-B
29-A §558-B. Notification by court to Secretary of State of a failure to appear or noncompliance with court order; resulting suspension
Status: in_force

1. Notification by court. If a person after being ordered to appear to answer a violation fails to appear or after appearing fails to comply with an order issued pursuant to this subchapter, the court shall notify the Secretary of State. [PL 2013, c. 530, §4 (NEW).]

2. Suspension of registration. After receiving notice pursuant to subsection 1 , the Secretary of State shall suspend the person's commercial registration certificates and plates and the privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle in this State. The suspension must remain in effect until the person appears in court and complies with a court order. [PL 2013, c. 530, §4 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2354 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 21 / Section 2354
29-A §2354. Six-axle limits
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any provision of this subchapter other than section 2354‑D , a combination vehicle consisting of a 3-axle truck tractor with a tri-axle semitrailer may be operated with a maximum gross vehicle weight of: [PL 2013, c. 565, §1 (AMD).]

1. 90,000 pounds. [PL 1999, c. 580, §7 (RP); PL 1999, c. 580, §14 (AFF).]

2. 100,000 pounds. One hundred thousand pounds, as long as the vehicle meets these requirements: A. The distance between the extreme axles, excluding the steering axle, is not less than 36 feet as measured to the nearest foot. The maximum gross vehicle weight permitted is reduced by 2,000 pounds for each foot the distance is less than 36 feet between the extreme axles, excluding the steering axle, measured to the nearest foot; [PL 2001, c. 267, §1 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).] B. The minimum distance between the steering axle and the first axle of the tandem-axle group is at least 10 feet as measured to the nearest foot; and [PL 2001, c. 267, §1 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).] C. The maximum weight on the: (1) Tandem axle does not exceed 41,000 pounds; and (2) Tri-axle does not exceed 50,000 pounds. [PL 1999, c. 580, §7 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 580, §14 (AFF).] D. [PL 1999, c. 580, §7 (RP); PL 1999, c. 580, §14 (AFF).] E. [PL 1999, c. 580, §7 (RP); PL 1999, c. 580, §14 (AFF).] Nothing contained in this subsection applies to vehicles using the Interstate Highway System as defined in the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956. Except as provided in section 2360, subsections 4 and 5 , for vehicles operating under this subsection, gross vehicle weight violations are fined in accordance with the following schedule: Percent over 100,000 Fine for pounds each percent 1-10% $100 + $20 for each percent over 1% 11-20% $280 + $125 for each percent over 10% 21-30% $1,530 + $135 for each percent over 20% 31-40% $2,880 + $150 for each percent over 30% 41% or more $4,380 + $175 for each percent over 40% For all vehicles manufactured, modified or retrofitted with liftable or variable load suspension axles after October 30, 1991, liftable or variable load suspension axles are permitted only under the following conditions: only one liftable or variable load axle may be present on the truck tractor and only one liftable or variable load axle may be present on the semitrailer; liftable or variable load axles must be located on the vehicle so that they are legally part of the tandem axle group or tri-axle group as appropriate; and the axle weight rating of liftable or variable load axles must conform to the expected loading of the suspension and must be 20,000 pounds or more. [PL 2001, c. 267, §1 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2414 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2414
29-A §2414. Refusing to stop for a law enforcement officer
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Roadblock" means a vehicle, a physical barrier or other obstruction placed on a way at the direction of a law enforcement officer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. "Signal" includes, but is not limited to, the use of a hand signal, siren or flashing emergency lights. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Failure to stop. A person commits a Class E crime if that person fails or refuses to stop a motor vehicle on request or signal of a uniformed law enforcement officer. [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §12 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).]

3. Eluding an officer. A person commits a Class C crime if that person, after being requested or signaled to stop, attempts to elude a law enforcement officer by operating a motor vehicle at a reckless rate of speed that results in a high-speed chase between the operator's motor vehicle and a law enforcement vehicle using a blue light and siren. [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §12 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).]

4. Passing a roadblock. A person commits a Class C crime if the person, without authorization, operates or attempts to operate a motor vehicle past a clearly identifiable police roadblock. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. High-speed chase policies. All state, county and municipal law enforcement agencies must adopt written policies on high-speed chases. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Aggravating factor; eluding an officer. A person commits a Class B crime if that person attempts to elude a law enforcement officer and another person suffers serious bodily injury, as defined in Title 17-A, section 2, subsection 23 , as a result. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §86 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

7. Aggravating factor; passing roadblock. A person commits a Class B crime if that person passes or attempts to pass a roadblock and another person suffers serious bodily injury, as defined in Title 17-A, section 2, subsection 23 , as a result. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §87 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2321 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 20 / Section 2321
29-A §2321. Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter may be known and cited as the "Bicycle and Roller Skis Safety Education Act." [PL 2009, c. 484, §9 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2602 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2602
29-A §2602. Jurisdiction
Status: in_force

1. Traffic infractions. The District Court has original and exclusive jurisdiction over prosecutions for traffic infractions. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Other violations. The District Court has original and concurrent jurisdiction with the Superior Court over prosecutions for other violations of this Title. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Class C or greater. For Class C or greater crimes, the District Court jurisdiction is subject to Title 4, section 165 and Title 17‑A, section 9 . [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §38 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

4. Fines. Except as otherwise provided in this Title, fines and forfeitures collected under this Title accrue to the General Fund, except that: A. Six percent of fines and forfeitures collected for all traffic infractions, including fines and forfeitures collected for traffic infractions under section 561‑A , accrues to the Law Enforcement Agency Reimbursement Fund established in Title 4, section 173, subsection 4‑B . This paragraph does not apply to sections 525 , 1767 and 2363 ; [PL 2001, c. 565, Pt. F, §3 (AMD).] B. Of the fines and forfeitures collected for traffic infractions under sections 511 , 2354 , 2356 , 2360 , 2380 , 2387 and 2388 , 7% accrues to the General Fund, 6% accrues to the Law Enforcement Agency Reimbursement Fund and the balance accrues to the General Highway Fund; and [PL 2003, c. 498, §6 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 498, §12 (AFF).] C. Of the fines and forfeitures collected for violations other than traffic infractions under sections 511 , 2354 , 2356 , 2360 , 2380 , 2387 and 2388 , only $5 or 13%, whichever is greater, accrues to the General Fund and the balance accrues to the Highway Fund. [PL 2003, c. 498, §6 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 498, §12 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 498, §6 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 498, §12 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1909 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1909
29-A §1909. Registration lamp
Status: in_force

A vehicle must have a white light capable of illuminating the rear registration plate so that the characters on the plate are visible for a distance of at least 50 feet. This section does not apply to unregistered farm tractors or vehicles with valid temporary plates issued by licensed car dealers. [PL 2021, c. 216, §45 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1113 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 1113
29-A §1113. Catalytic converters
Status: in_force

This section governs the sale, purchase, removal, transport and disposal of catalytic converters that have been removed from motor vehicles. The exemptions provided in section 1102 do not apply to the provisions of this section. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

1. Removal from a motor vehicle. This subsection governs the removal of a catalytic converter from a motor vehicle. A. Except as provided in subsections 2 , 3 and 4 , a recycler may not remove a catalytic converter from a motor vehicle if the catalytic converter does not have the vehicle identification number of the vehicle engraved on the catalytic converter in accordance with section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C unless the recycler, immediately upon removal, engraves or marks the catalytic converter in a location that is clearly visible, and in a manner that is permanent and legible, with: (1) The vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle; or (2) The recycler's license number and a stock number from a stock number system used by the recycler. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. Except as provided in subsections 2 and 3 , a person who is not a recycler may not remove a catalytic converter from a motor vehicle if the catalytic converter does not have the vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle engraved on the catalytic converter in accordance with section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C unless the person, immediately upon removal, marks the catalytic converter in a location that is clearly visible, and in a manner that is permanent and legible, with the vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

2. Damage or missing vehicle identification number upon removal. If a person is not able to identify the vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle the catalytic converter is attached to or the catalytic converter is too damaged to mark in a manner that is permanent and legible, the person may remove the catalytic converter from the motor vehicle only if the person follows the process established by the Secretary of State under subsection 14 . [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

3. Motor vehicle repair and maintenance. If a person engaged in the repair or maintenance of a motor vehicle must temporarily remove the catalytic converter from the motor vehicle in order to complete the repair or maintenance, that person is not required to mark the catalytic converter in accordance with subsection 1 . This subsection does not exempt a person from the marking requirements in subsection 1 if the person attaches the catalytic converter to a different motor vehicle than the motor vehicle undergoing repair or maintenance or sells, trades or transfers the catalytic converter to another person. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

4. Marking or recording in the event of final disposal or deconstruction. If a recycler is removing a catalytic converter from a motor vehicle for the purpose of final disposal or deconstruction under subsection 8 , the recycler is not required to mark the catalytic converter in accordance with subsection 1 . A recycler removing a catalytic converter from a motor vehicle for the purpose of final disposal shall: A. Mark the catalytic converter with the recycler's license number in a location that is clearly visible and in a manner that is permanent and legible; and [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. Maintain a record of the catalytic converter the recycler removed from a motor vehicle and the manner in which it was disposed. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

5. Prohibition on purchase or sale. This subsection governs the purchase and sale of a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle. A. A person who is not a recycler may not operate a business that deals in the purchase or sale of catalytic converters that have been removed from motor vehicles or the deconstruction or disposal of catalytic converters that have been removed from motor vehicles. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2023, c. 634, §22 (AMD).] B. A person who is not a recycler may not purchase a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] C. A person who is not a recycler may sell a catalytic converter only if the catalytic converter has been properly marked in accordance with subsection 1 or 14 or section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C . A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 634, §22 (AMD).]

6. Purchase or sale by recyclers. The following provisions govern the purchase, sale or acquisition by a recycler of a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle. A. A recycler may not purchase, sell or acquire a catalytic converter unless it has been engraved or marked in accordance with subsection 1 or 14 or section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C . A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class D crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. A recycler may not sell a catalytic converter to a person other than a recycler. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] C. A recycler may not purchase or acquire a catalytic converter unless the recycler, within 10 days of the purchase or acquisition, submits a report of the transaction to a property and recovery tracking system administered by a regional law enforcement support organization designated by the Secretary of State that includes: (1) The name and address of the recycler who purchased or acquired the catalytic converter; (2) The date and time of the purchase or acquisition; (3) The name, address, date of birth, telephone number and unique identifying number from a valid form of identification of the person who conveyed the catalytic converter to the recycler; (4) The vehicle identification number or recycler's license number and stock number from a stock number system used by the recycler marked on the catalytic converter at the time of the purchase or acquisition; and (5) The purchase price, if any, of the catalytic converter. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

7. Records of purchases made by recyclers. This subsection governs the record-keeping requirements for a recycler that purchases a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle. A. Except as provided in paragraph C , a recycler shall maintain an accurate and legible record of each catalytic converter purchase transaction. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. A recycler shall provide payment to a seller only in the form of a credit card, as defined in Title 9‑A, section 1‑301, subsection 16 , a debit card, as defined in Title 10, section 1271, subsection 3 , or a check. If payment is made by check, the recycler shall maintain a record of the payee, check number and name of the financial institution upon which the check is drawn. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] C. A recycler is not required to maintain individual records for a series of catalytic converter purchase transactions made pursuant to a written contract or bill of sale. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] D. The record of each catalytic converter purchase transaction required under paragraph A must be on a form prescribed by the Commissioner of Public Safety and contain the following information: (1) The name and address of the seller. The recycler shall require the seller to provide proof of identification with a driver's license, military identification card, passport or other form of government-issued photographic identification. The recycler shall photocopy the form of photographic identification presented and record the distinct identifying number of that photographic identification. If the proof of identification contains a photograph that is faded, out of date or otherwise indiscernible, the recycler shall photograph the seller. A recycler shall keep these proof of identification records in a secure, nonpublic location and, unless otherwise permitted by law, may not publish, reproduce, distribute or disclose these records for any other purpose than that described in paragraph E , subparagraph (2). Information required under this subparagraph may be maintained for repeat sellers in a relational database that allows the recycler to record the information one time and relate future purchase records to that information; (2) The date of the catalytic converter purchase transaction; (3) A general description of the catalytic converter purchased, which must be made in accordance with the custom of the trade; (4) The weight, quantity or volume of the catalytic converters purchased, which must be recorded in accordance with the custom of the trade; (5) The consideration paid; (6) A signed statement that the seller is the owner or is otherwise authorized to sell the catalytic converter on a form provided by the buyer that conspicuously bears the warning that making a false statement is a Class D crime under Title 17‑A, section 453 ; and (7) The make, model number and state of issue of the license plate of the vehicle being used to deliver the catalytic converter. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] E. A recycler shall maintain records under this subsection, which must be: (1) Retained for a period of 5 years; and (2) Made available to any law enforcement officer of the State or of any municipality or county. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

8. Final disposal and deconstruction. This subsection governs the final disposal or deconstruction of a catalytic converter. A. A person other than a recycler may not finally dispose of or deconstruct a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle or remove the contents of a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. A recycler may not finally dispose of or deconstruct a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle or remove the contents of a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle unless: (1) The recycler has complied with the requirements of subsection 6, paragraph C ; and (2) The catalytic converter has been engraved or marked in accordance with subsection 1 or 14 or section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C . A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] For the purposes of this section, "final disposal" or "finally dispose of" means the disposal or deconstruction of a catalytic converter in a manner that ensures the catalytic converter will not be sold or reused as a catalytic converter following the disposal or deconstruction. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

9. Transportation. The following provisions govern the transportation of a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle. A. A person may not transport a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle that the person has reason to know has not been engraved or marked in accordance with subsection 1 or 14 or section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C . A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. A recycler may not transport a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle if the recycler has reason to know that the catalytic converter is not properly identified on a manifest required under this paragraph. (1) For any catalytic converter that is not engraved or marked with a vehicle identification number and is being transported by a recycler, the recycler shall possess a manifest that includes the relevant stock number, the name of the recycler that marked the catalytic converter with the stock number from a stock number system used by the recycler, the vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle from which the catalytic converter was removed and the license number of the recycler transporting the catalytic converter. (2) For any catalytic converter marked for final disposal under subsection 4 and being transported by a recycler, the recycler shall possess a manifest that includes the name of the recycler that marked the catalytic converter, the license number of the recycler transporting the catalytic converter, the total number of catalytic converters being transported for final disposal and the name and address of the person receiving the catalytic converters marked for final disposal. A person who violates this paragraph commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

10. Misrepresentation. A person may not mark a catalytic converter with a vehicle identification number that the person has reason to know is not the vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle from which the catalytic converter was removed. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

11. Unlawful possession. A person may not knowingly possess a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle unless: A. The catalytic converter has been properly marked in accordance with subsection 1 or 14 or section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C ; or [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. The person has requested a new identification number and is awaiting a determination from the Secretary of State under subsection 14 . [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] A person who violates this subsection commits a Class D crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

12. Defacing of markings. A person may not deface or remove from a catalytic converter the markings required under subsection 1 or 14 or section 952, subsection 1‑B, paragraph C . A person who violates this subsection commits a Class D crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

13. Aggravated possession or defacing of markings. A person who violates subsection 11 or 12 and at the time of the violation has a prior conviction for violating subsection 11 or 12 that is less than 5 years old commits a Class C crime. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

14. State-issued identification number. If a person is in possession of a catalytic converter that has been removed from a motor vehicle and the person has determined that the vehicle identification number of the motor vehicle from which the catalytic converter is removed cannot be identified or that the catalytic converter is too damaged to mark in a manner that is permanent and legible, the person shall, as soon as possible, submit a request for the Secretary of State to assign an identification number to the catalytic converter. A person submitting a request for the Secretary of State to assign an identification number to a catalytic converter must provide appropriate documentation of that person's ownership of the catalytic converter and any other appropriate information required by the Secretary of State by rule. Upon receipt of a request that fulfills the requirements of this subsection, the Secretary of State shall assign a temporary request identification number and issue documentation to the requestor that certifies the person has complied with this subsection for a temporary period of up to 30 days. The person shall keep the documentation with the catalytic converter about which the request was made at all times. Prior to the expiration of the temporary request certification, the Secretary of State shall make a determination as to whether the requestor is the lawful owner of the catalytic converter and, if the Secretary of State determines the person is the lawful owner, shall issue an identification number to the catalytic converter. Upon issuing an identification number the Secretary of State shall mark or label the catalytic converter or record the identification number in a manner specified by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State may not require the requestor to transport the catalytic converter in order for the Secretary of State to mark the catalytic converter. No later than January 1, 2023 the Secretary of State shall adopt rules necessary to implement this subsection. Rules adopted under this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . Rules adopted by the Secretary of State under this subsection must include but are not limited to: A. The manner by which a person may submit a request under this subsection; [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. A list of the appropriate forms of documentation sufficient to prove ownership of a catalytic converter under this subsection; [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] C. Any other information or documentation the Secretary of State determines appropriate for a requestor to provide under this subsection; and [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] D. The manner in which the Secretary of State must mark, label or record a new identification number issued to a catalytic converter under this subsection. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]

15. Seizure and forfeiture. Any catalytic converter possessed in violation of this section is contraband and is subject to forfeiture to the State in accordance with this subsection. A. Whenever a law enforcement officer seizes a catalytic converter for violation of this section, the law enforcement officer shall within a reasonable time frame file a libel with a judge that includes the following: (1) A description sufficient to identify the catalytic converter; (2) A description sufficient to identify the location from which the catalytic converter was seized; (3) The identity, if available, of the person in possession of the catalytic converter at the time of seizure; (4) A statement of the violation that caused the seizure; and (5) A request for a decree of forfeiture of the catalytic converter. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] B. Upon receipt of a libel filed under this subsection the judge shall fix a time and place for a hearing and shall issue notice to all relevant parties to appear at the time and place indicated in the notice and to show cause for why the catalytic converter should not be declared forfeited. The judge shall provide a true and attested copy of the libel to the person from whom the catalytic converter was seized and to the lawful owner of the catalytic converter, if different from the person from whom the catalytic converter was seized and if that person can be reasonably located and identified. At least 10 days prior to the hearing, the judge shall also ensure that notice is posted in at least 2 public and conspicuous places determined by the judge to be adequate to provide notice to any additional interested parties. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] C. In lieu of forfeiture proceedings, a catalytic converter seized under this subsection may be transferred in writing to the State by the owner. If ownership of the catalytic converter is transferred to the State, a receipt for the catalytic converter must be given to the former owner by the law enforcement officer who seized the catalytic converter. [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] D. The Secretary of State shall mark a catalytic converter forfeited to the State under this subsection in a manner determined appropriate by the Secretary of State. After marking a catalytic converter forfeited under this subsection, the Secretary of State may dispose of the catalytic converter in a manner considered appropriate by the Secretary of State, including, but not limited to, selling the catalytic converter to a recycler. Any proceeds from the sale of a catalytic converter under this subsection must be placed in the Motor Vehicle Services Fund established under section 159 . [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 660, §4 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 661 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 661
29-A §661. Duplicate certificate of title, certificate of salvage or certificate of lien
Status: in_force

1. Application. If a certificate of title or certificate of salvage is lost, stolen, mutilated or destroyed or becomes illegible, the owner or legal representative of the owner named in the certificate, as shown by the records of the Secretary of State, shall promptly make application for and may obtain a duplicate upon furnishing information satisfactory to the Secretary of State. A duplicate certificate of title or certificate of salvage must contain the legend, "This is a duplicate certificate and may be subject to the rights of a person under the original certificate." It must be mailed to the owner named on the certificate unless that owner gives written authorization to mail the certificate to another person. If a certificate of lien has been lost, stolen, mutilated or destroyed or becomes illegible, the first lienholder shown on the certificate may apply for and obtain a duplicate upon furnishing information satisfactory to the Secretary of State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Time. The Secretary of State is not required to issue a duplicate until 15 days after the previous title was issued. [PL 2009, c. 435, §11 (AMD).]

3. Surrender of original. A person recovering an original certificate for which a duplicate has been issued shall promptly surrender the original to the Secretary of State. Violation of this subsection is a Class E crime. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2306 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2306
29-A §2306. School buses to stop at railroad track crossings
Status: in_force

1. Full stop. The operator of a school bus shall come to a full stop before crossing a railroad track at a point not more than 50 feet nor less than 15 feet from the nearest rail. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Ensure no train. The operator shall ascertain beyond a reasonable doubt that no train, engine or conveyance is approaching on the track before proceeding to cross. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Violation. A person commits a Class E crime if that person, while operating a school bus, fails to stop or yield the right-of-way as required by this section. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Suspension. On conviction of failure to stop or yield to a train, an operator's permit to operate a school bus must be revoked by the Secretary of State for a period of not less than 2 years. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1954 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1954
29-A §1954. Dump body support
Status: in_force

1. Equipment. A truck with a dump body must be equipped with a positive means of support, permanently attached and capable of being locked in position to prevent lowering of the body while being maintained, inspected or repaired or while the truck is unattended. [PL 2003, c. 340, §5 (NEW).]

2. Required. A truck dump body must be either fully lowered, locked by means of equipment required in subsection 1 or physically blocked from lowering while being maintained, inspected or repaired or while the truck is unattended. [PL 2003, c. 340, §5 (NEW).]

3. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 340, §5 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 458 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 458
29-A §458. Stock race cars
Status: in_force

1. Stock race car plates authorized. The Secretary of State may issue a registration plate for stock race cars. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Fee. [PL 1999, c. 790, Pt. C, §2 (RP); PL 1999, c. 790, Pt. C, §19 (AFF).]

3. Operation restricted. A stock race car may not be operated under its own power on a public way. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2070 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2070
29-A §2070. Passing another vehicle
Status: in_force

1. Passing on left. An operator of a vehicle passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction must pass to the left at a safe distance and may not return to the right until safely clear of the passed vehicle. An operator may not overtake another vehicle by driving off the pavement or main traveled portion of the way. [PL 1997, c. 653, §11 (AMD).]

1-A. Passing bicycle or roller skier. An operator of a motor vehicle that is passing a bicycle or roller skier proceeding in the same direction shall exercise due care by leaving a distance between the motor vehicle and the bicycle or roller skier of not less than 3 feet while the motor vehicle is passing the bicycle or roller skier. A motor vehicle operator may pass a bicycle or roller skier traveling in the same direction in a no-passing zone only when it is safe to do so. The collision of a motor vehicle with a person operating a bicycle or roller skis is prima facie evidence of a violation of this subsection. [PL 2013, c. 241, §5 (AMD).]

2. Giving way. Except when passing on the right is permitted, the operator of passed vehicle: A. Shall give way to the right in favor of the passing vehicle upon audible signal; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. May not increase speed until completely overtaken by the passing vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Visibility. A passing vehicle may be operated to the left of the way's center only when the left side is clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit overtaking to be completed without interfering with the safe operation of an approaching or passed vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Returning to the right. The passing vehicle must return to the right before coming within 100 feet of an approaching vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Limitation. Except on a one-way road, an operator may not drive to the left side of the way under the following conditions: A. When approaching the crest of a grade or on a curve where the operator's view is obstructed for a distance as to create a hazard if another vehicle approached from the opposite direction; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. When approaching within 100 feet of or traversing an intersection or railroad grade crossing, except when turning to the left to enter an intersecting way; [PL 2005, c. 141, §1 (AMD).] C. When the view is obstructed within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct or tunnel; [PL 2005, c. 141, §1 (AMD).] D. When the single center line highway marking method is used and an unbroken painted line is marked on the way, except in an emergency; or [PL 2005, c. 141, §2 (NEW).] E. When the double center line highway marking method is used and an unbroken painted line is marked on the way in the operator's lane, except in an emergency. [PL 2005, c. 141, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 141, §§1, 2 (AMD).]

6. Passing on the right. An operator may pass a vehicle on the right only under the following conditions: A. When the vehicle to be passed is making or about to make a left turn; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. On a way with unobstructed pavement not occupied by parked vehicles and of sufficient width for 2 or more lines of traffic in each direction; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. On a way on which traffic is restricted to one direction, when the roadway is free from obstructions and of sufficient width for 2 or more lines of traffic. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] An operator may pass on the right only under conditions permitting that movement in safety. An operator may not overtake by driving off the pavement or main traveled portion of the way. A person operating a bicycle or roller skis may pass a vehicle on the right at the bicyclist's or roller skier's own risk. [PL 2009, c. 484, §7 (AMD).]

7. Evidence. The placing on a roadway of highway markings conforming to this chapter is prima facie evidence that the markings have been placed by the official act or direction of lawful authority. [PL 2005, c. 141, §3 (NEW).]

8. Passing stationary vehicles. The operator of a vehicle passing a stationary vehicle that a reasonable person would conclude is disabled or that is using flashing lights to warn other operators of the vehicle's presence, with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, shall: A. Pass in a lane not adjacent to that of the stationary vehicle, if possible; or [PL 2023, c. 122, §1 (NEW).] B. If passing in a nonadjacent lane is impossible or unsafe, pass the stationary vehicle at a careful and prudent speed reasonable for passing the vehicle safely. [PL 2023, c. 122, §1 (NEW).] Violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction for which a fine of not less than $275 must be adjudged. [PL 2023, c. 122, §1 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 659 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 659
29-A §659. Withholding of certificate of title or certificate of salvage; bond required
Status: in_force

1. Action by Secretary of State. If the Secretary of State is not satisfied as to ownership of the vehicle or the absence of security interests, the Secretary of State may register the vehicle but must either: A. Withhold a certificate of title or certificate of salvage until the applicant presents documents to satisfy the Secretary of State as to ownership and the absence of undisclosed security interests; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Require the applicant to file a bond executed by the applicant that is: (1) Executed by a person authorized to conduct a surety business in this State; (2) In an amount equal to 1 1/2 times the value of the vehicle as determined by the Secretary of State; and (3) Conditioned to indemnify a prior or subsequent owner or lienholder against any expense, loss or damage, including reasonable attorney's fees, by reason of the issuance of the certificate or on account of any defect in or undisclosed security interest in the interest of the applicant to the vehicle. [PL 2005, c. 573, §4 (AMD).] [PL 2005, c. 573, §4 (AMD).]

2. Recovery of bond for breach. An interested person may recover on a bond required under this section for a breach of its conditions, but the aggregate liability of the surety to all persons may not exceed the amount of the bond. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Return of bond or deposit. Unless the Secretary of State has been notified of the pendency of an action to recover against the bond, a bond or deposit required under this section must be returned at the end of 3 years or earlier, if the vehicle is no longer registered in this State and the current certificate of title or salvage is surrendered to the Secretary of State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Violation. Violation of this section is a traffic infraction for which a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2005, c. 433, §10 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 433, §28 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1602 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1602
29-A §1602. Proof demanded
Status: in_force

1. Demand. On receipt of an accident report required under section 2251 , the Secretary of State shall demand of the owner or operator proof of financial responsibility under section 1605 . This subsection does not apply to: A. The owner of a vehicle operated by a person that obtained possession or control without the owner's express or implied consent; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. The owner or operator of a vehicle involved in an accident when the Secretary of State is satisfied that neither the owner nor the operator caused the accident; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. The owner or operator of a vehicle involved in an accident caused by an act of a 3rd party that was a motor vehicle violation of which that 3rd party has been convicted or adjudicated; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. The owner or operator of a vehicle involved in an accident in which damage or injury was caused only to the person or property of the owner or operator, unless at the time of the accident that owner or operator was violating provisions of this Title; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. The operator of a motor vehicle licensed by the Public Utilities Commission; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. An owner or operator of a vehicle covered by a policy, in effect at the time of the accident; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] G. An operator who is not the owner of a vehicle and who is covered by a policy, in effect at the time of the accident, for the operation of vehicles not owned by the operator; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] H. The operator or owner of a vehicle if the liability of the operator or owner for damages resulting from the accident is, in the judgment of the Secretary of State, covered by any other form of policy. A policy is effective under this paragraph: (1) If it is issued by an insurer, insurance company or surety company authorized to do business in this State; or (2) If the vehicle is not registered in this State, or was registered outside the State at the effective date of the policy, if the policy meets the amounts of financial responsibility required by section 1605 ; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] I. The operator of a vehicle owned by the State or a political subdivision, or by a corporation that has complied with section 1605, subsection 3, paragraph C ; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] J. The owner of a vehicle operated by another individual 18 years of age or older when the owner was not negligent in giving consent to that individual to use the vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Suspension. If within 30 days of the date of demand the required proof has not been given, the Secretary of State shall: A. Suspend the license of that person; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Suspend the registration of a vehicle owned by that person; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Suspend or deny the right to apply for a driver's license or vehicle registration. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Duration of suspension. The suspension or period of denial must continue until the person provides proof of financial responsibility under section 1605 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Restricted license. If the Secretary of State finds that suspension imposes an extreme hardship for which there is no other practical remedy and that the safety of the public will not be impaired and if judgment has not been rendered, the Secretary of State may issue a restricted license, subject to restrictions, conditions and immediate suspension if misused. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Waiver. The Secretary of State may waive the requirement of filing proof of financial responsibility 3 years from the date of demand for compliance, if no further proof is required under this subchapter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Insurance report. Within 15 days of receipt of notice from the Secretary of State that a policy was carried at the time of the accident or that the liability for damages was covered by another form of insurance or bond, an insurance carrier shall notify the Secretary of State if that policy was not in effect at the time of the accident. The Secretary of State may impose an administrative penalty of $50 for each day after 15 days that the insurance carrier fails to notify the Secretary of State as required in this subsection. [PL 1997, c. 176, §4 (AMD).]

7. Erroneous information. If erroneous information of financial responsibility is furnished, the Secretary of State shall take appropriate action after the receipt of correct information. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 254 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 3 / Section 254
29-A §254. Rented vehicles; records
Status: in_force

1. Owner of vehicle to keep record. A person engaged in the business of renting motor vehicles with or without a driver, other than as a transaction involving the sale of the vehicle, shall maintain a record of the identity of the person to whom the vehicle is rented, including a record of the driver's license of the person to whom the vehicle is rented and the exact time the vehicle is subject to that rental or in the person's possession. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime. Violation of this subsection is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17-A, section 34, subsection 4-A . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

2. Records open to inspection. A person required to maintain records pursuant to subsection 1 shall allow inspection of those records by any law enforcement officer. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime. Violation of this subsection is a strict liability crime as defined in Title 17-A, section 34, subsection 4-A . [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

3. Offense. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §1 (RP); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Form. If the Secretary of State prescribes a form for the keeping of the record required in subsection 1 , the owner shall use that form. The form must be carried in the vehicle during the period of lease or hire. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1304 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1304
29-A §1304. Learner's permits
Status: in_force

1. Learner's permits. The following provisions apply to learner's permits. A. A person who is 15 years of age or older may apply for a learner's permit, except that a person who is 15 years of age or older and has not attained 18 years of age must complete a course in driver education before applying for a learner's permit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] B. After an applicant has successfully passed all parts of an examination other than the driving test, the Secretary of State may issue a learner's permit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] C. The learner's permit entitles the permittee to drive a motor vehicle on the public ways. The permittee must have the learner's permit in immediate possession while driving on the public ways. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] D. The learner's permit is valid for a period of 2 years. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] E. Unless the permittee is operating a motorcycle or moped, the learner's permit requires the permittee to be accompanied by a licensed operator who: (1) Has held a valid license for at least 2 years; (2) Is at least 20 years of age; (3) Is occupying a seat beside the driver; and (4) Is licensed to operate the class vehicle operated by the permittee. The accompanying operator must adhere to all restrictions applied to the license when functioning as the permittee's accompanying operator. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] F. The Secretary of State may issue a restricted learner's permit to an applicant who is enrolled in a driver education program that includes practice driving. That permit is valid: (1) For a school year or other specified period; and (2) Only when the permittee is accompanied by a driver education teacher or a commercial driver education instructor, licensed by the Secretary of State under subchapter 3 . An applicant with a physical, mental or emotional condition that impairs the safe operation of a motor vehicle may operate on a restricted learner's permit without being enrolled in a driver education program for the purpose of an initial behind-the-wheel assessment. The driver education teacher or commercial driver education instructor must be licensed as an occupational or physical therapist with the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] G. [PL 1997, c. 737, §4 (RP); PL 1997, c. 737, §22 (AFF).] H. A person under 21 years of age may not apply for a license unless: (1) A period of 6 months has passed from the date the person was issued a learner's permit; and (2) The person has completed a minimum of 70 hours of driving, including 10 hours of night driving, while accompanied by a parent, guardian or licensed driver at least 20 years of age. The parent, stepparent or guardian, or a spouse or employer pursuant to section 1302, subsection 1, paragraphs B and C , must certify the person's driving time on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State. A parent, stepparent, guardian, spouse or employer who certifies a driving log pursuant to this subsection and was not the licensed driver accompanying the applicant must provide the name and address of the licensed driver who accompanied the applicant for the majority of the 70 hours of driving. The Secretary of State may complete the certification for an applicant at least 18 years of age and who has no parent, stepparent, guardian, spouse or employer if the applicant provides the name and address of the licensed driver who accompanied the applicant for the majority of the 70 hours of driving. A person 21 years of age or older is not required to submit certification of driving time to the Secretary of State. [PL 2013, c. 496, §13 (AMD).] I. A person who has been issued a learner's permit may not operate a motor vehicle on a public way while using, manipulating, talking into or otherwise interacting with a handheld electronic device or mobile telephone, including but not limited to when the motor vehicle is temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic light or a stop sign. A person who has been issued a learner's permit may use, manipulate, talk into or otherwise interact with a handheld electronic device or mobile telephone while in the operator's seat of a motor vehicle if the person has pulled the motor vehicle over to the side of, or off, a public way and has halted in a location where the motor vehicle can safely remain stationary. A person who violates this paragraph commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2019, c. 486, §4 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 486, §4 (AMD).]

1-A. Learner's permit; issuance. The following provisions apply to the issuance of a learner's permit. A. Fees for a learner's permit may be collected by the Secretary of State in accordance with section 154, subsection 1 or by the provider of a driver education course under section 1351 , which shall deposit the fees with the Secretary of State. [PL 2017, c. 79, §1 (AMD).] B. Any required application materials for a learner's permit may be collected by the Secretary of State or by the provider of a driver education course under section 1351 , which shall forward the materials to the Secretary of State. [PL 2017, c. 79, §1 (AMD).] C. Any required examination for a learner's permit may be administered only by the Secretary of State except that the Secretary of State may waive this requirement on receipt of a course completion certificate under section 1351, subsection 3 . [PL 2015, c. 114, §1 (AMD).] D. A learner's permit may be issued by the Secretary of State or by the provider of a driver education course under section 1351 . [PL 2017, c. 79, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2017, c. 79, §1 (AMD).]

2. Motorcycle and moped. The following provisions apply to learner's permits for the operation of motorcycles or mopeds. A. A person must be at least 16 years of age to apply for a motorcycle or moped learner's permit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] B. An applicant must pass a vision test and a knowledge test related specifically to the safe operation of a motorcycle or moped. [PL 2005, c. 577, §19 (AMD).] C. An applicant for a motorcycle permit must complete a motorcycle rider education course as required by section 1352 . [PL 2017, c. 229, §21 (AMD).] D. A learner's permit is valid for 2 years. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] E. If the holder of a learner's permit fails to complete the driving test within 2 years from the date of issuance of a learner's permit the holder must retake the motorcycle rider education course for a subsequent learner's permit to be issued. [PL 2017, c. 229, §22 (AMD).] F. [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. B, §12 (RP); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).] G. A learner's permit does not allow the holder to carry a passenger. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).] H. The fee for a motorcycle or moped learner's permit and the first road test is $35. The fee for a subsequent examination is $35. [PL 2017, c. 283, Pt. C, §1 (AMD); PL 2017, c. 283, Pt. C, §6 (AFF).] I. A learner's permit may be issued by the Secretary of State or by the provider of a motorcycle rider education course under section 1352 . [PL 2021, c. 216, §37 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 216, §37 (AMD).]

3. Bus. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD); MRSA T. 29-A §1304, sub-§3 (RP).]

4. School bus. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD); MRSA T. 29-A §1304, sub-§4 (RP).]

4-A. Commercial learner's permit. The following provisions apply to commercial learner's permits. A. The commercial learner's permit holder must be at all times accompanied in a commercial motor vehicle of the class sought for licensed operation by the holder of a valid commercial driver's license with the commercial driver's license class and endorsements necessary to operate the commercial motor vehicle. The commercial driver's license holder shall at all times be physically present in the front seat of the vehicle next to the commercial learner's permit holder or, in the case of a passenger vehicle, directly behind or in the first row behind the driver. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] B. The commercial learner's permit holder must hold a valid driver's license issued by the same state or jurisdiction of domicile that issued the commercial learner's permit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] C. The commercial learner's permit holder must have taken and passed a general knowledge test for the commercial motor vehicle class that the person expects to operate. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] D. [PL 2015, c. 46, §1 (RP).] E. A commercial learner's permit holder is limited to the following endorsements. (1) In order to receive a passenger endorsement, in accordance with the requirements of the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, a commercial learner's permit holder must have taken and passed the passenger endorsement knowledge test. A commercial learner's permit holder testing for a passenger endorsement is prohibited from operating a commercial motor vehicle carrying passengers other than the test examiners and the commercial driver's license holder accompanying the commercial learner's permit holder pursuant to paragraph A . The passenger endorsement must be specific to a commercial motor vehicle class. A commercial learner's permit holder must be at least 21 years of age to apply. The commercial learner's permit holder must be accompanied by a commercial driver's license holder with a passenger endorsement who has at least one year of driving experience and is at least 22 years of age. (2) In order to receive a school bus endorsement, in accordance with the requirements of the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, a commercial learner's permit holder must have taken and passed the school bus endorsement knowledge test. A commercial learner's permit holder testing for a school bus endorsement is prohibited from operating a school bus with passengers other than test examiners and the commercial driver's license holder accompanying the commercial learner's permit holder pursuant to paragraph A . A commercial learner's permit holder must be at least 21 years of age to apply. The commercial learner's permit holder must be accompanied by a commercial driver's license holder with a passenger endorsement who has at least one year of driving experience and is at least 22 years of age. (3) In order to receive a tank vehicle endorsement, in accordance with the requirements of the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, a commercial learner's permit holder must have taken and passed the tank vehicle endorsement knowledge test. A commercial learner's permit holder testing for a tank vehicle endorsement may only operate an empty tank vehicle and is prohibited from operating any tank vehicle that previously contained hazardous materials that has not been purged of any residue. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] F. The commercial learner's permit holder may not operate a commercial motor vehicle transporting hazardous materials as defined in 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 383.5. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] G. The commercial learner's permit is valid for no more than one year from the date of issuance. [PL 2019, c. 397, §19 (AMD).] H. The issuance of a commercial learner's permit is a precondition to the initial issuance of a commercial driver's license. The issuance of a commercial learner's permit is a precondition to the upgrade of a commercial driver's license if the upgrade requires a skills test. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] I. The commercial learner's permit holder is not eligible to take the commercial driver's license skills test in the first 14 days after the initial issuance of the commercial learner's permit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (NEW).] This subsection takes effect July 8, 2015. [PL 2019, c. 397, §19 (AMD).]

5. Expiration. Unless continuation is authorized by the Secretary of State, a learner's permit expires when the holder successfully passes a driving examination. An expired permit must immediately be surrendered to the Secretary of State. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §16 (AMD).]

6. Criminal offense. A person commits a Class E crime if that person accompanies a permittee who is operating a vehicle on a public way and that accompanying person has impaired mental or physical functioning as a result of the use of intoxicating liquor or drugs. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1410-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1410-A
29-A §1410-A. Acquired brain injury identification cards
Status: in_force

Beginning January 1, 2020, the Secretary of State shall issue, on the request of a person who elects to receive it, an acquired brain injury identification card in accordance with this section. [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).]

1. Issuance. Upon receipt of a completed application and payment of a fee of $5 by an applicant, the Secretary of State shall issue a wallet-sized acquired brain injury identification card to the applicant. For the purposes of this section, "acquired brain injury" has the same meaning as in Title 22, section 3086 . Each acquired brain injury identification card must contain: A. The name and address of the person to whom the card is issued; [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] B. The seal of the State; [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] C. A statement that the card holder has an acquired brain injury; and [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] D. Any additional information about acquired brain injury as determined by the Secretary of State under subsection 3 . [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] The issuance of an acquired brain injury identification card does not license, permit or privilege a person to operate a motor vehicle and may not be used for official identification purposes in place of a driver's license or nondriver identification card. [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).]

2. Application. A completed application for an acquired brain injury identification card must contain the following: A. The name, date of birth, address and telephone number of the person requesting the card; and [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] B. Any appropriate documentation that a person has an acquired brain injury as determined by the Secretary of State by rule. [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).]

3. Additional information. The Secretary of State may determine by rule any additional information about acquired brain injury that must be placed on an acquired brain injury identification card. [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).]

4. Rulemaking. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2019, c. 506, §1 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2401 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2401
29-A §2401. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Alcohol and drug program. "Alcohol and drug program" means the alcohol and other drug education, evaluation and treatment program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services under Title 5, chapter 521, subchapter 5 . [PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. AA, §77 (AMD).]

2. Alcohol level. "Alcohol level" means either grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath. [PL 2009, c. 447, §32 (AMD).]

3. Chemical test or test. "Chemical test" or "test" means a test or tests used to determine alcohol level or the presence of a drug or drug metabolite by analysis of blood, breath or urine. [PL 2013, c. 459, §1 (AMD).]

4. Drugs. "Drugs" means scheduled drugs as defined under Title 17‑A, section 1101 . The term "drugs" includes any natural or artificial chemical substance that, when taken into the human body, can impair the ability of the person to safely operate a motor vehicle. [PL 1995, c. 145, §1 (AMD).]

5. Failure to submit to a test, fails to submit to a test or failed to submit to a test. "Failure to submit to a test," "fails to submit to a test" or "failed to submit to a test" means failure to comply with the duty to submit to and complete a chemical test under section 2521 or 2525 . [PL 1995, c. 368, Pt. AAA, §4 (AMD).]

5-A. Ignition interlock device. "Ignition interlock device" means a device that connects a breath analyzer to a motor vehicle's ignition system. The analyzer monitors the concentration of alcohol in the breath of any person who attempts to start the motor vehicle by using the ignition system. The device prevents the vehicle from starting unless the person provides a breath sample with a concentration of alcohol that is below a preset level. [PL 2007, c. 531, §1 (REEN); PL 2007, c. 531, §10 (AFF).]

6. Operating. "Operating," in any form, means operating or attempting to operate a motor vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. OAS. "OAS" means to operate after the Secretary of State or a court has suspended the driver's license. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

8. OUI. "OUI" means operating under the influence of intoxicants or with an excessive alcohol level under section 2411 , 2453 , 2453‑A , 2454 , 2456 , 2457 or 2472 . [PL 2011, c. 335, §2 (AMD).]

9. OUI conviction. "OUI conviction" means a conviction for: A. A violation of section 2411 ; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A violation of a juvenile crime defined in Title 15, section 3103, subsection 1, paragraph A for conduct that, if committed by an adult, would be considered criminal under section 2411 or defined as Class B or C crimes under this Title; [PL 2025, c. 431, §25 (AMD).] C. Violation of former Title 29, section 1312, subsection 10 or section 1312‑B; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. In a jurisdiction that is a party to the Driver License Compact established in chapter 11, subchapter V , an offense described in the compact, section 1454, subsection 1, paragraph B , or an offense that is similar as provided by section 1454, subsection 3 ; [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §113 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).] E. In a tribal court of the Penobscot Nation or the Passamaquoddy Tribe, a court of the United States or a court of a state that is not a party to the compact, an offense for which punishment includes the possibility of incarceration, whether or not actually imposed, and the elements of the offense as provided in the law of that jurisdiction include operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated, impaired or under the influence of alcohol, intoxicating liquor or drugs or with a level of alcohol sufficient for conviction under the laws of that jurisdiction; or [PL 2009, c. 447, §35 (AMD).] F. An adjudication or other determination made under the juvenile laws of this State or of another jurisdiction for conduct that, if committed by an adult, would have been a conviction included in this subsection, including the conduct described in paragraph B . [PL 2025, c. 431, §26 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 431, §§25, 26 (AMD).]

10. OUI offender. "OUI offender" means a person who receives an OUI conviction. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

11. OUI offense. "OUI offense" means an OUI conviction or suspension for failure to submit to a test. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

12. OUI suspension. "OUI suspension" means the suspension of a driver's license for an OUI conviction. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

13. Under the influence of intoxicants. "Under the influence of intoxicants" means being under the influence of alcohol, a drug other than alcohol, a combination of drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 664-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 664-A
29-A §664-A. Resale by dealer
Status: in_force

1. Vehicle sold by dealer. A vehicle that is sold by a dealer must be accompanied by a properly assigned and valid certificate of title or certificate of salvage at the time of its sale. A dealer may retain and process certificates of title and certificates of salvage at the dealer’s primary facility if in the case when the dealer displays a vehicle at an annex facility the dealer maintains a copy of the certificate of title or certificate of salvage at the annex facility. A dealer selling a vehicle to a lessee who elects to purchase the leased vehicle at the end of the lease term is exempt from this provision. [PL 2021, c. 216, §17 (AMD).]

2. Vehicle held by dealer. If a dealer holds a vehicle for resale and obtains the certificate of title or certificate of salvage, the dealer is not required to deliver the certificate to the Secretary of State. [PL 1997, c. 437, §20 (NEW).]

3. Transfer. When transferring possession of a vehicle held for resale to a retail purchaser or selling a leased vehicle to the lessee, a dealer shall comply with section 654 . [PL 2021, c. 216, §18 (AMD).]

4. Unreleased security interest. If a certificate of title shows an unreleased security interest, a dealer may not transfer possession of the vehicle unless the dealer possesses a properly released certificate of lien or the Secretary of State has issued a replacement certificate omitting the security interest under section 705 . [PL 2001, c. 671, §14 (AMD).]

5. Sold at auction. Except for a vehicle sold to a dealer at a vehicle auction licensed under section 1051 , a vehicle that is sold at an auction must be accompanied by a valid certificate of title or salvage at the time of its sale. The seller of a vehicle sold to a dealer at a vehicle auction licensed under section 1051 must provide the purchasing dealer with a valid certificate of title or certificate of salvage within 30 days. [PL 2021, c. 216, §19 (AMD).]

6. Documentation. A vehicle that is exempt under section 652 or a vehicle from a jurisdiction that does not issue certificates of title must be accompanied by information and documents to establish the ownership of the vehicle and the existence or nonexistence of a security interest in it. [PL 1997, c. 437, §20 (NEW).]

7. Penalty. Violation of this section is a Class E crime. [PL 1997, c. 437, §20 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 652 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 652
29-A §652. Exempted vehicles
Status: in_force

A certificate of title or a certificate of salvage is not required for: [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. United States' vehicle. A vehicle owned by the Federal Government, unless it is registered in this State or, at the discretion of the Secretary of State, a vehicle owned by the Federal Government that is loaned to the State, a municipality or a veterans' organization; [PL 1997, c. 100, §1 (AMD).]

2. Manufacturer's or dealer's vehicle. A vehicle owned by a manufacturer or dealer and held for sale, even though incidentally moved on the highway or used for purposes of testing or demonstration, or a vehicle used by a manufacturer solely for testing; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2-A. Public; nonprofit organization. Any public or nonprofit organization as described in section 951, subsection 4 ; [PL 2001, c. 671, §12 (NEW).]

3. Nonresident's vehicle. A vehicle owned by a nonresident and not required to be registered in this State, unless it is registered in this State; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Vehicles used in interstate or intrastate transportation. A vehicle regularly engaged in interstate or intrastate transportation of persons or property, for which a current certificate of title has been issued in another state; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4-A. Semitrailers. Semitrailers that qualify to be registered under section 512 with an unladen weight in excess of 3,000 pounds and that are used for interstate or intrastate transportation and for which a current certificate of title has been issued in another state; [PL 2001, c. 361, §21 (AMD).]

5. Self-propelled wheelchair. A self-propelled wheelchair; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Trailers under 3,000 pounds. A trailer with an unladen weight of 3,000 pounds or less; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Motorcycle or moped of less than 300 cubic centimeters. A motorcycle or a moped with an engine displacement of less than 300 cubic centimeters; [PL 2005, c. 577, §11 (AMD).]

8. Resident's vehicle registered in another state. A vehicle owned by a resident but registered in another state; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

9. Manufactured housing. Manufactured housing that is: A. Sold before October 1, 2007; [PL 2007, c. 466, Pt. A, §48 (AMD); PL 2007, c. 466, Pt. A, §49 (AFF).] B. Model year 2006 or older; [PL 2005, c. 678, §7 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 678, §13 (AFF).] C. Multisectional; [PL 2005, c. 678, §7 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 678, §13 (AFF).] D. Defined in section 101, subsection 32‑B, paragraph B ; or [PL 2005, c. 678, §7 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 678, §13 (AFF).] E. Permanently affixed to real property that is owned by the owner of the manufactured housing within 30 days of the date of sale. [PL 2013, c. 125, §3 (AMD).] [PL 2013, c. 125, §3 (AMD).]

9-A. Tiny homes. A tiny home that is: A. Sold before January 1, 2020; or [PL 2019, c. 650, §5 (NEW).] B. Model year 2019 or older; [PL 2019, c. 650, §5 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 650, §5 (NEW).]

10. Certain driver education vehicles. A vehicle loaned by a dealer to a municipality or a private secondary school for use in driver education in a secondary school; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

11. Special mobile equipment. Special mobile equipment; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

12. Special equipment. Special equipment; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

13. Vehicles more than 25 years old. Vehicles more than 25 years old, except when the Secretary of State determines it is in the best interest of the State and the applicant to issue a warranty title as prescribed under section 651, subsection 3 to a motor vehicle more than 25 years old; [PL 2023, c. 634, §10 (AMD).]

14. Salvage vehicle. A salvage vehicle with a certificate of salvage or other comparable document from another state; [PL 2003, c. 490, Pt. D, §3 (AMD).]

15. Other vehicles. A vehicle required to be registered under section 109, subsection 3 for which a current certificate of title has been issued in another state; [PL 2009, c. 598, §26 (AMD).]

16. Low-speed vehicle. A low-speed vehicle loaned by a dealer to a municipality; [PL 2015, c. 88, §1 (AMD).]

17. Off-road vehicle. An off-road vehicle; and [PL 2015, c. 88, §2 (AMD).]

18. Vehicle model year at least 20 years old. A vehicle that is at least 20 years old according to its model year at the time of sale or transfer of ownership to a recycler, salvage vehicle dealer or scrap processor if: A. The recycler, salvage vehicle dealer or scrap processor obtains the seller's name and the address of the seller's residence from a government-issued photograph identification document or credential and maintains the seller's name and address and vehicle identification number of the scrapped vehicle for a period of at least 5 years; and [PL 2019, c. 397, §13 (AMD).] B. The recycler, salvage vehicle dealer or scrap processor accurately reports the destruction of the vehicle to the Secretary of State within 30 days in a manner prescribed by the Secretary of State. [PL 2019, c. 397, §13 (AMD).] Violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction. This subsection applies only to vehicles that are scrapped. For purposes of this subsection, a government-issued photograph identification document or credential includes, but is not limited to, a current and valid United States passport, military identification, driver's license or nondriver identification card. [PL 2019, c. 397, §13 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2079-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2079-A
29-A §2079-A. Excessive sound system noise
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A person may not operate a sound system in a vehicle on a public way at a volume that is audible at a distance of greater than 25 feet and that exceeds 85 decibels or that is greater than is reasonable with due regard to the location of the vehicle and the effect on persons in proximity to the vehicle. It is a prima facie violation of this section if the vehicle is located near buildings and the buildings or windows in the buildings are shaken or rattled by the sound of the sound system. [PL 2001, c. 73, §1 (NEW).]

2. Penalty. Violation of subsection 1 is a traffic infraction for which the following forfeitures must be assessed: A. For a first offense, $50; [PL 2001, c. 73, §1 (NEW).] B. For a 2nd offense, $100; and [PL 2001, c. 73, §1 (NEW).] C. For a 3rd or subsequent offense, $150. [PL 2001, c. 73, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2001, c. 73, §1 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 751 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 751
29-A §751. Altering, forging or counterfeiting certificates
Status: in_force

A person is guilty of a Class D crime if that person: [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Certificate. Alters, forges or counterfeits a certificate of title, certificate of salvage or certificate of lien; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Assignment. Alters or forges an assignment of a certificate of title or certificate of salvage or an assignment or release of a security interest on a certificate of title, certificate of salvage, certificate of lien or an official form of the Secretary of State; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Possession of forgery. Has possession of or uses a certificate knowing that the certificate of title, certificate of salvage or certificate of lien had been altered, forged or counterfeited; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. False statement. Uses a false or fictitious name or address, makes a material false statement, fails to disclose a security interest or conceals any other material fact in an application for a certificate of title, certificate of salvage, certificate of lien or on any documents in support of that application; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Sale. Sells or exchanges, offers to sell or exchange or gives away a certificate of title, certificate of salvage, certificate of lien or vehicle identification number plate. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 409 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 409
29-A §409. Collection of taxes
Status: in_force

1. Collection of tax. The Secretary of State shall act at the time and place of registration on behalf of the State Tax Assessor to collect the sales or use tax due under Title 36, Part 3 for a vehicle for which an original registration is required. [PL 2017, c. 67, §1 (AMD).]

2. Documentation; payment of tax. Registration may not be issued, unless in addition to meeting the other registration requirements of this Title, the applicant has: A. Submitted a properly completed bill of sale, showing either that: (1) The sales tax due has been collected by the dealer; or (2) The sale of the vehicle is not subject to tax; or [PL 2019, c. 397, §2 (AMD).] B. Properly signed a use tax certificate in a form prescribed by the State Tax Assessor and: (1) Paid the amount of tax due; or (2) Shown that the sale or use of the vehicle is not subject to tax. [PL 2017, c. 67, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 397, §2 (AMD).]

3. Collection fee. The Secretary of State must be reimbursed by the State Tax Assessor $1.25 per use tax certificate processed, even if a certificate indicates that no use tax is due. Retained fees must be transmitted to the Treasurer of State and credited to the Highway Fund. Taxes collected must be transmitted to the Treasurer of State and credited to the General Fund. [PL 2019, c. 397, §3 (AMD).]

4. Forwarding certificates. Certificates submitted pursuant to this section must be sent promptly to the State Tax Assessor. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Other taxes. A motor vehicle, mobile home or camp trailer may not be registered until the excise tax or personal property tax or real estate tax has been paid in accordance with Title 36, sections 551 , 602 , 1482 and 1484 . The Secretary of State may provide municipal excise tax collectors with a standard vehicle registration form for the collection of excise tax. [PL 2017, c. 67, §2 (AMD).]

6. Remedies cumulative. The provisions of this section are in addition to other methods for the collection of the sales or use tax. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 533-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 533-A
29-A §533-A. Municipal Excise Tax Reimbursement Fund
Status: in_force

1. Fund established. The Municipal Excise Tax Reimbursement Fund, referred to in this section as the "fund," is established as a dedicated, nonlapsing fund. [PL 1997, c. 505, §2 (NEW).]

2. Deposits. The Secretary of State shall deposit into the fund all revenue derived pursuant to section 531, subsection 6 . [PL 1997, c. 505, §2 (NEW).]

3. Use of the fund. The fund must be used as follows. A. Between July 1st and October 31st, the Secretary of State shall disburse to a participating municipality a sum equal to the difference in the amount of excise tax that would have been collected by that municipality in the prior fiscal year on each commercial motor vehicle or bus under Title 36, section 1482, subsection 1, paragraph C , subparagraph (3) or (4) using the manufacturer's suggested retail price from the amount of that excise tax actually collected by that municipality in the prior fiscal year based on the actual purchase price. The Secretary of State shall provide supporting documentation to a municipality regarding the disbursement that municipality receives under this section. [PL 2011, c. 646, §1 (AMD).] B. By December 1st of the fiscal year in which disbursements are made under paragraph A , the Secretary of State shall transfer from the fund to the Highway Fund a sum equal to the difference in the total revenues derived pursuant to section 531, subsection 6 in the prior fiscal year from the total disbursements made under paragraph A in the current fiscal year. [PL 2001, c. 361, §15 (AMD).] [PL 2011, c. 646, §1 (AMD).]

4. Municipal participation optional. Municipal participation in the reimbursement program under this section is optional. A participating municipality must collect and provide to the Secretary of State any information the Secretary of State requires to calculate reimbursement. [PL 1997, c. 505, §2 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 521 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 521
29-A §521. Registration; disability registration plates
Status: in_force

1. Definition. "Person with a disability" means a person whose disability limits or impairs the ability to walk, as determined and certified by a licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse, to the extent that the person: A. Can not walk 200 feet without stopping to rest; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. Can not walk without assistance from another person or the use of a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, wheelchair or other assistive device; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. Is restricted by lung disease to such an extent that the person's forced expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than 1 liter or when the arterial oxygen tension is less than 60m/hg on room air at rest; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] D. Uses portable oxygen; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] E. Has a cardiac condition to the extent that the person's functional limitations are classified in severity as Class 3 or Class 4 according to standards set by the American Heart Association; [PL 2003, c. 431, §1 (AMD).] F. Is severely limited in the ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological or orthopedic condition; or [PL 2003, c. 431, §2 (AMD).] G. Is recovering from childbirth. [PL 2003, c. 431, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 703, §12 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).]

2. Disability registration plates. Disability registration plates must bear the International Symbol of Access, which must be in a color that contrasts with the background and is the same size as the letters or numbers on the plate. The Secretary of State may issue disability registration plates to the following: A. A person with a disability; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] B. A vehicle owner who is a spouse, parent or legal guardian of a person with a disability when the person with a disability is a resident of this State, a member of the relative's or guardian's household and dependent on the vehicle owner as the primary means of transportation; or [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] C. An organization or agency in this State that transports persons with disabilities. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).] [PL 1999, c. 544, §1 (AMD).]

3. Removable windshield placards. The Secretary of State may issue a removable windshield placard to a person with a disability or an organization or agency in this State that transports persons with disabilities. A removable windshield placard is a 2-sided permit designed to hang from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is not in motion. The following provisions apply to placards. A. The placard must be displayed by hanging it from the rearview mirror so that it may be viewed from the front and rear of the vehicle when the vehicle is using a parking space for a person with a disability. If the vehicle is not equipped with a rearview mirror, the placard must be displayed on the dashboard. The windshield placard must be removed from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is in motion. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (RPR).] B. The placard must be blue with white print and contain the International Symbol of Access, at least 3 inches high, centered on the placard. The placard must contain the permit number, the expiration date and the seal of the Secretary of State. In the case of an organization or agency, the placard must be green with white print and contain the same information, except that the name of the organization must appear along with the expiration date that must be determined by the Secretary of State. [PL 2015, c. 473, §10 (AMD).] C. A windshield placard may be displayed on any properly registered motor vehicle only when the person with a disability is a passenger or the operator or when the driver of the vehicle is waiting for a service to be rendered to the person with a disability. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (RPR).] [PL 2015, c. 473, §10 (AMD).]

4. Motorcycle. A person with a disability who has registered a motorcycle may be issued a disability plate as a registration plate. The registration plate must bear the International Symbol of Access, which must be in a color that contrasts with the background and must be the same size as the letters or numbers on the plate. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (RPR).]

5. Application; issuance. The following provisions apply to an application for and the issuance of a disability plate or placard. A. An application for a disability plate or placard must be accompanied by the certificate of a physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse attesting to the applicant's physical disability as defined in subsection 1 . The physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse shall designate the duration of the applicant's disability not to exceed 6 years or designate the applicant's disability as permanent. The Secretary of State shall issue to an eligible applicant disability plates and windshield placards upon request. A disability plate or placard issued to a person for whom the duration of the person's disability has been designated as not exceeding 6 years expires upon the expiration of the duration of the disability as designated by the physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse. [PL 2013, c. 496, §10 (NEW); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).] B. When the Secretary of State determines the disability to be permanent from the application, the applicant is not required to continue to provide proof of disability upon renewal of the applicant's disability plate or placard. A disability plate or placard issued with a determination pursuant to this paragraph may be renewed for a period not to exceed 6 years. The Secretary of State may adopt rules to implement this paragraph. Rules adopted pursuant to this paragraph are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 533, §1 (AMD).] C. When the applicant's need for the disability plate or placard terminates or the applicant dies, the disability plate or placard must be returned to the Secretary of State. Notwithstanding subsection 2, paragraphs B and C , the provisions of this subsection, as regards the issuance of a disability plate or placard for a person with a permanent disability, apply only to that person. [PL 2013, c. 496, §10 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 533, §1 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).]

6. Temporary placards. The Secretary of State may issue a temporary placard to a person who is temporarily disabled. A temporary placard is a 2-sided permit designed to hang from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is not in motion. The following provisions apply to temporary placards. A. An application for a temporary placard must be accompanied by the certificate of a physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse attesting to the applicant's physical disability as defined in subsection 1 and the period of time that the physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse determines the applicant will have the disability. A temporary placard is not valid for a period of more than 6 months. The Secretary of State shall give priority consideration to requests for temporary placards. A temporary placard issued pursuant to subsection 1, paragraph G is valid, after the birth of a child, for a period of not more than: (1) One week after cesarean section delivery; or (2) A time to be determined by the patient's physician after the birth of a preterm infant. [PL 2007, c. 703, §14 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).] B. The placard must be red with white print and contain the International Symbol of Access, at least 3 inches high, centered on the placard. The placard must contain the permit number, the expiration date specified by the physician and the seal of the Secretary of State. [PL 1995, c. 645, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).] C. During the period for which it is valid, a temporary placard carries the same privileges as a disability windshield placard and has the same use restrictions specified in subsection 3 . [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (RPR).] D. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §4 (RP).] [PL 2007, c. 703, §14 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).]

6-A. Parking permit. The Secretary of State shall create a 21-day parking permit for a person with a disability to be used while a person is waiting to receive a disability registration plate or placard and may appoint a licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse as an agent authorized solely to issue such a permit. The Secretary of State shall determine by rule qualifications and requirements for an agent authorized under this subsection. The 21-day parking permit must be in a form prescribed by the Secretary of State by rule and convey the privileges and restrictions authorized under this section. The 21-day parking permit must be displayed in a manner so that it may be viewed from the front of the vehicle whenever the vehicle is parked in a parking space for a person with a disability. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . Agents appointed pursuant to this subsection may not charge a fee for issuing a 21-day parking permit for a person with a disability. [PL 2011, c. 117, §1 (NEW); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).]

7. Registration and placard fees. There is no additional registration fee for disability plates or placards. [PL 2001, c. 361, §11 (AMD).]

8. Violation. [PL 1997, c. 673, §1 (RP).]

9. Compliance. Any person or organization issued a placard or plates pursuant to former Title 29, section 252 or 252-C must reapply, according to the procedures set forth in this section, by January 1, 2001. In the case of individuals or organizations currently in possession of disability plates or a placard who successfully reapply, the placard or plates expire on the date specified by the placard or plates. [PL 1997, c. 776, §18 (AMD).]

9-A. Enforcement of disability parking restrictions. A law enforcement officer may enforce disability parking restrictions. The State Police shall enforce disability parking restrictions at service facilities established on the Maine Turnpike and on the interstate highway system in the State. A person commits a traffic infraction if that person parks in a parking space designated and clearly marked for persons with physical disabilities and has not been issued or is not transporting a person who has been issued a disability registration plate or a removable windshield placard pursuant to this section or section 523 or a disability registration plate or placard issued by another state. A person commits a traffic infraction if that person parks in an access aisle, regardless of whether the person has been issued a disability registration plate or removable placard. A person who violates this subsection is subject to a fine of not less than $200 and not more than $500. Testimony under oath with clear photographic evidence from a person with a disability or the driver of a vehicle transporting a person with a disability that a vehicle was parked in violation of this subsection is prima facie evidence of a violation of this subsection. For purposes of this subsection, "person with a disability" has the same meaning as in subsection 1 . [PL 2015, c. 52, §1 (AMD).]

9-B. Registered owner's liability for vehicle illegally parked in disability parking space or access aisle. A person who is a registered owner of a vehicle at the time that vehicle is involved in a violation of subsection 9‑A commits a traffic infraction. For purposes of this subsection, "registered owner" includes a person issued a dealer or transporter registration plate. A. Anyone who observes a violation of subsection 9‑A may report the violation to a law enforcement officer. If a report is made, the observer shall report the time and the location of the violation and the registration plate number and a description of the vehicle involved. The officer shall initiate an investigation of the reported violation and, if possible, contact the registered owner of the motor vehicle involved and request that the registered owner supply information identifying the operator. Testimony under oath with clear photographic evidence from a person with a disability or the driver of a vehicle transporting a person with a disability that a vehicle was parked in violation of this subsection is prima facie evidence of a violation of this subsection. For purposes of this paragraph, "person with a disability" has the same meaning as in subsection 1 . [PL 2015, c. 52, §2 (AMD).] B. The investigating officer may cause the registered owner of the vehicle to be served with a summons for a violation of this subsection. [PL 2005, c. 528, §2 (NEW).] C. Except as provided in paragraph D , it is not a defense to a violation of this subsection that a registered owner was not operating the vehicle at the time of the violation. [PL 2005, c. 528, §2 (NEW).] D. The following are defenses to a violation of this subsection. (1) If a person other than the owner is found to be operating the vehicle at the time of the violation and is adjudicated of violating subsection 9‑A , then the registered owner may not be found in violation of this subsection. (2) If the registered owner is a lessor of vehicles and at the time of the violation the vehicle was in the possession of a lessee, and the lessor provides the investigating officer with a copy of the lease agreement containing the information required by section 254 , then the lessee and not the lessor may be charged under this subsection. (3) If the vehicle is operated using a dealer or transporter registration plate and at the time of the violation the vehicle was operated by any person other than the dealer or transporter, and if the dealer or transporter provides the investigating officer with the name and address of the person who had control over the vehicle at the time of the violation, then that person and not the dealer or transporter may be charged under this subsection. (4) If a report that the vehicle was stolen is given to a law enforcement officer or agency before the violation occurs or within a reasonable time after the violation occurs, then the registered owner may not be charged under this subsection. [PL 2005, c. 528, §2 (NEW).] E. A person who violates this subsection is subject to a fine of not less than $200 and not more than $500. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. C, §2 (AMD).] [PL 2015, c. 52, §2 (AMD).]

10. Effective date. [PL 1997, c. 776, §19 (RP).]

11. Violation. A person other than a person with a disability or an organization transporting a person with a disability using a set of disability registration plates or a windshield placard commits a traffic infraction and is subject to a penalty of not less than $100 nor more than $500. The disability registration plates or removable windshield placard may be suspended for improper use. A 2nd or subsequent violation of this subsection is a Class E crime for which the fine under this subsection may be doubled. [PL 2009, c. 143, §2 (AMD).]

12. Parking without charge. A vehicle that exhibits a permanent placard, a temporary placard or a disability registration plate may park at a parking area that is not a parking facility as defined in Title 30‑A, section 5401, subsection 5 without a charge and may park a length of time that does not exceed twice the limit otherwise allowed. [PL 2019, c. 648, §1 (AMD).]

13. Altering placard. A person who alters or causes to be altered the expiration date of a disability placard issued pursuant to this section commits a traffic infraction and is subject to a penalty of not less than $100 nor more than $500. [PL 2007, c. 383, §13 (NEW).]

14. Disabled veterans parking. A person qualifying for special designation plates pursuant to section 523, subsection 1 or 2 may request disabled veterans parking registration plates. Disabled veterans parking registration plates must bear the words "Disabled Veteran," the American flag and the International Symbol of Access in compliance with subsection 2 . [PL 2009, c. 598, §5 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1404-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1404-A
29-A §1404-A. Deaf or hard-of-hearing designation
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall, at the request of a person who is deaf or hard-of-hearing, print a driver's license or nondriver identification card with a distinctive marker or code to indicate that the person is deaf or hard-of-hearing. The Secretary of State may require appropriate documentation that a person is deaf or hard-of-hearing before issuing the driver's license or nondriver identification card. For purposes of this section, the terms "deaf person" and "hard-of-hearing person" have the same meanings as in section 1358, subsection 1 . [PL 2019, c. 397, §22 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 407 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 407
29-A §407. Defaced or missing identification numbers
Status: in_force

1. Assignment of special number. When an engine, serial or vehicle identification number has been omitted, altered, removed or defaced, the Secretary of State shall assign and attach to the vehicle a special number and maintain a record of the number. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Violation. A person commits a Class E crime if that person sells, exchanges, offers to sell or exchange, transfers or uses a manufacturer's vehicle identification or serial number plate that has been removed from the vehicle to which it was originally attached. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1052 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 1052
29-A §1052. Record of transactions by vehicle auction business
Status: in_force

1. Record of sale. A vehicle auction business must complete a record for each sale of a vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Contents of record. The record of sale must include the following: A. A description of the vehicle; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. The name of the transferor and transferee; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. The date of the transaction; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. The odometer reading at the time of sale; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. A statement that a completed disclosure, as required by Title 10, section 1475, subsection 1 , was affixed to the vehicle before sale; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. Any additional information that may be required by the official form provided by the Secretary of State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Filing. [PL 2023, c. 634, §20 (RP).]

4. Maintaining record. The licensee shall maintain a copy of the record of sale for at least 5 years after the date of sale. [PL 1997, c. 437, §27 (AMD).]

5. Availability of records for inspection. All books, records and files related to the sale of vehicles or vehicle parts must be available during normal business hours for inspection by the Secretary of State, law enforcement officers or representatives of the office of the Attorney General. The records must be kept in compliance with the federal Truth in Mileage Act of 1986, Public Law 99-579 and regulations promulgated under 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 580. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Penalty. Violation of this section is a traffic infraction. [PL 1999, c. 771, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 771, Pt. D, §§1, 2 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2395 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 21 / Section 2395
29-A §2395. Ways requiring special protection
Status: in_force

1. Right of the Department of Transportation. The Department of Transportation may restrict the weight or passage of any vehicle over any way when, in its judgment, such passage would be unsafe or likely to cause excessive damage to the way or bridge. Nothing in this Title may be construed to restrict or abridge this right. [RR 1995, c. 1, §26 (COR).]

2. Rules. The Department of Transportation may adopt rules to ensure proper use and prevent abuse of the public ways under the department's jurisdiction whenever those ways require special protection. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A . [PL 2013, c. 55, §1 (AMD).]

3. Designation by the Department of Transportation. The Department of Transportation may designate state and state aid highways and bridges over which restrictions on gross weight, speed, operation and equipment apply during periods of the year determined by the Department. It is unlawful for any vehicle to travel over public ways with a gross registered weight exceeding that prescribed by the Department and traveling with a load other than tools or equipment necessary for operation of the vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Designation by counties and municipalities. County commissioners and municipal officers may designate public ways other than those in subsection 3 and impose restrictions within their respective jurisdictions similar to those made by the Department of Transportation under subsection 3 . Any vehicle delivering home heating fuel or organic animal bedding material and operating in accordance with a permit issued by the Department of Transportation pursuant to this section may travel over any county or town way without a specific municipal or county permit. A municipality may impose additional restrictions for a vehicle delivering home heating fuel or organic animal bedding material to operate on public ways within that municipality but may not require a permit to operate according to those restrictions. [PL 2017, c. 25, §1 (AMD).]

4-A. Municipal permit not required during declared drought emergency. Notwithstanding subsection 4 , during a period of drought emergency declared by the Governor pursuant to Title 37-B, section 742 , a person operating a vehicle that is transporting well-drilling equipment for the purpose of drilling a replacement water well or for improving an existing water well on property where that well is no longer supplying sufficient water for residents or agricultural purposes may travel over a county or municipal way without a specific county or municipal permit, as long as the following conditions are met: A. The operator of the vehicle is operating in accordance with a permit issued by the Department of Transportation when a department permit is required for a road or way necessary to reach the county or municipal way on which the property to be drilled is situated; [PL 2001, c. 540, §1 (NEW).] B. The municipal or county manager or, in the absence of a municipal or county manager, a municipal or county officer or road commissioner is notified in advance; and [PL 2001, c. 540, §1 (NEW).] C. The operator of the vehicle is traveling on a road that is posted by a county or municipality in accordance with any additional restrictions the municipality or county may impose, excepting any requirement for a specific county or municipal permit. [PL 2001, c. 540, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2001, c. 540, §1 (NEW).]

5. Notice. A notice specifying the designated sections of a public way, the periods of closing and prescribed restrictions or exclusions must be conspicuously posted at each end of the public way requiring special protection in accordance with this section. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Enforcement. Municipal officers within their respective municipalities have the same power as the State Police in the enforcement of this section and of all rules of the Department of Transportation, the county commissioners and the municipal officers that pertain to this section. The municipal officers, in such cases, serve without compensation. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Violation. A violation of this section is a traffic infraction punishable by a fine, which may not be suspended, of not less than $250. [RR 2009, c. 2, §83 (COR).]

8. Information on bridges. Whenever necessary, the Department of Transportation may provide to municipal and county officials information concerning the capacity of bridges under the jurisdiction of those officials and the advisability of posting those bridges. [RR 2009, c. 2, §84 (COR).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1301 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1301
29-A §1301. Application
Status: in_force

1. Application required. An applicant must present to the Secretary of State an application for license on a form prepared by the Secretary of State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Contents. The applicant must provide specific answers that demonstrate the experience and competence of the applicant to operate a motor vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2-A. Legal presence requirement. The Secretary of State may not issue a license to an applicant unless the applicant presents to the Secretary of State valid documentary evidence of legal presence in the United States. Valid documentary evidence of legal presence for a United States citizen may include a United States passport that has been expired for less than 2 years. [PL 2023, c. 634, §24 (AMD).]

3. Proof of age. An applicant who has not attained the age of 23 years must provide satisfactory proof of the applicant's date of birth prior to receiving a permit or original license. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Examination. An applicant must pass a physical examination by actual demonstration of ability to operate a motor vehicle and a written examination. Failure to complete the driving test within the term of a learner's permit requires reexamination for the permit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §15 (AMD).]

5. Permanent license number. [PL 2005, c. 250, §1 (RP).]

6. Social security number. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the social security number of any applicant for a license or nondriver identification card must be recorded on the application, and the Secretary of State may not issue a license or nondriver identification card to a person who does not possess and provide a valid social security number. The Secretary of State shall collect, store and verify the social security number of an applicant for a license or nondriver identification card and may use that number to establish a permanent license number or nondriver identification number. This subsection does not apply to a person who is legally ineligible to receive a social security number. [PL 2025, c. 165, §2 (AMD).]

6-A. Confidentiality. Except as required by 18 United States Code, Section 2721(b) or as needed to implement the federal National Voter Registration Act of 1993, the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002 or other federal election law, the Secretary of State may not disseminate information collected under subsection 6 . For every willful violation of this subsection, a person commits a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $500 may be adjudged. [PL 2023, c. 257, §13 (AMD).]

7. Physical examination. A physical examination that may be required by the Secretary of State for the issuance or renewal of a license may be performed by a licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or other competent treatment personnel as determined by the Medical Advisory Board. [PL 2001, c. 159, §1 (NEW); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).]

8. Organ and tissue donation. This subsection applies to organ donation under section 1402‑A . A. Before issuing or renewing a driver's license, the Secretary of State shall make available to the applicant a short statement on the opportunity to save a life through organ and tissue donation and shall provide the applicant an opportunity to become an organ or tissue donor. The applicant must be given a form on which to indicate whether the applicant intends to become a donor. [PL 2003, c. 394, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 394, §6 (AFF).] B. Information regarding the opportunity to save a life through organ and tissue donation must be prominently displayed on driver's license information mailed to applicants or distributed at offices of the bureau and must be prominently displayed on posters in offices of the bureau. [PL 2003, c. 394, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 394, §6 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 394, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 394, §6 (AFF).]

8. (REALLOCATED TO T. 29-A, §1301, sub-§9) Vehicle used for examination. [RR 2003, c. 1, §28 (RAL); PL 2003, c. 397, §4 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 397, §6 (AFF).]

9. (REALLOCATED FROM T. 29-A, §1301, sub-§8) Vehicle used for examination. An applicant for a license may not use a low-speed vehicle or autocycle to demonstrate ability to operate a motor vehicle as required under subsection 4 . [PL 2009, c. 55, §3 (AMD).]

10. Expired documents. The Secretary of State may not accept the following documents as identification for the purpose of issuing a nondriver identification card or driver's license: A. An expired visa granted by the authority of the United States; [PL 2005, c. 469, §1 (NEW).] B. An expired document issued by a foreign country; or [PL 2005, c. 469, §1 (NEW).] C. A foreign passport showing an elapsed departure date. [PL 2005, c. 469, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 469, §1 (NEW).]

11. Residency requirement. A license may not be issued to a person unless the person presents acceptable documentary evidence of the person's residence or domicile in this State. The Secretary of State may exempt from the requirements of this subsection a person who has established to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State that the person is on active duty in the United States Armed Forces, the spouse or child of a person on active duty in the United States Armed Forces or a student enrolled in a university, college or school within the State. A. Acceptable documentary evidence of a person's residence or domicile in this State must include the applicant's name and the address of the person's residence or domicile in this State. A post office box or other mail drop address is not sufficient. Acceptable documentary evidence includes, but is not limited to: (1) A tax return, W-2 form or paycheck stub; (2) A utility bill or a letter from a utility company showing application for service; (3) A contract to which the applicant is a party; or (4) A document issued by a governmental entity. [PL 2007, c. 659, §1 (NEW).] B. A person who is unable to provide acceptable documentary evidence pursuant to paragraph A may meet the requirements of this subsection by: (1) Submitting the affidavits of 2 individuals who have a personal or professional relationship with the person and knowledge of the person and the person's residence or domicile, which may include a shelter, in this State. A single affidavit signed by a parent or guardian of a minor making an application is sufficient for the purposes of this paragraph. The Secretary of State may reject any affidavit the Secretary of State determines to be insufficient to meet the requirements of this subsection. The affidavit is a sworn statement and a false statement by the affiant constitutes false swearing, which is a violation of Title 17‑A, section 452 . The Secretary of State shall provide forms for the completion of affidavits. These forms must state: "By signing this statement I verify that the representations herein are true. By making false statements on this document, I realize I am committing a Class D crime punishable under Maine law."; or (2) By taking an oath or affirmation before the Secretary of State swearing to the person's residence or domicile, which may include a shelter. [PL 2007, c. 659, §1 (NEW).] An applicant who supplies false information pursuant to this subsection makes a material misstatement of fact described in section 2103 and is subject to the penalties under that section. [PL 2007, c. 659, §1 (NEW).]

12. Selective service registration. Before issuing or renewing a driver's license to a male United States citizen or immigrant who is at least 18 years of age and under 26 years of age, the Secretary of State shall provide the applicant with a short statement on the requirements of the federal Military Selective Service Act, 50 United States Code, Section 453 and a federal Military Selective Service registration form. If an applicant consents to register with the federal Selective Service System pursuant to this subsection, the Secretary of State shall forward the necessary information of the applicant to the federal Selective Service System. [PL 2011, c. 170, §1 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 531 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 531
29-A §531. Application of the International Registration Plan; apportioned registrations
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall implement the International Registration Plan, referred to in this article as the "plan," in accordance with this section. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Registration year. Fleets must be apportioned under the plan on a staggered basis. The registrant shall elect a common registration expiration date for all apportioned vehicles in the fleet. For purposes of this section, "fleet" means one or more vehicles registered to the same person and sharing a common registration expiration date and a common mileage report. [PL 2001, c. 361, §14 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).]

2. Application of plan. The plan agreement prevails if in conflict with other laws or rules regarding registration of vehicles. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Rulemaking. The Secretary of State shall adopt rules to carry out provisions of the plan. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Registration transition. The registration of motor vehicles that are to be registered under the plan may be prorated on a monthly basis. Prorated registrations may be issued for any number of months necessary to provide for the consolidation of fleets of vehicles under a single expiration date. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Registration of fleet operated by nonresident owner. The Secretary of State may provide for the registration of a fleet of vehicles operated by a nonresident owner on an apportionment or allocation basis when those vehicles are regularly operated between points outside the State to points in the State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Excise tax on commercial vehicles operated by nonresident owners. Nonresident owners of motor vehicles paying an apportioned registration fee to the State through the International Registration Plan shall pay to the Secretary of State an apportioned excise tax determined by multiplying the apportioned mileage percentage by the purchase price of the vehicle and by the appropriate mill rate for the model year as determined in Title 36, section 1482, subsection 1, paragraph C . [PL 1995, c. 440, §1 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 440, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2086 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2086
29-A §2086. Riding in trunk prohibited (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 29-A, SECTION 2085)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 29-A, SECTION 2085)

A person may not ride in or occupy the trunk of a vehicle while the vehicle is in motion on a public way. [RR 1999, c. 1, §39 (RAL).]
29-A M.R.S. § 523 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 523
29-A §523. Certain veterans
Status: in_force

1. Amputee or blind veterans. On application to the Secretary of State for registration of any motor vehicle of any amputee or blind veteran who has received an automobile from the United States Government under authority of 38 United States Code, Sections 3901, et seq. or any amputee or blind veteran receiving compensation from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the United States Armed Forces for service-connected disability who has a specially designed motor vehicle, that veteran is entitled to have that automobile duly registered and a registration certificate delivered to the veteran without the requirement of the payment of any fee. Any veteran who has lost both legs or the use of both legs and who has registered a motor vehicle without the payment of a fee as provided in this section upon certification by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or appropriate branch of the United States Armed Forces may upon request be issued special designating plates. Those designating plates must be issued by the Secretary of State and must bear the words "Disabled Veteran." [PL 2023, c. 634, §7 (AMD).]

2. Disabled veterans; special free license plates. The Secretary of State, on application and upon evidence of payment of the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 or upon evidence of exemption from excise tax under Title 36, section 1483, subsection 12 , shall issue, with no annual registration fee, a registration certificate and upon request special designating plates to be used in lieu of regular registration plates for a vehicle with a registered gross weight of not more than 26,000 pounds to any 100% disabled veteran when that application is accompanied by certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the United States Armed Forces as to the veteran's permanent disability and receipt of 100% service-connected benefits. Upon request a disability placard may be issued at no fee. The Secretary of State may issue a registration certificate and special designating plates for no more than 3 vehicles owned by a veteran eligible under this subsection. These special designating plates must bear the words "Disabled Veteran," which indicate that the vehicle is owned by a disabled veteran. [PL 2025, c. 152, §1 (AMD).]

2-A. Disabled veterans motorcycle license plates. The Secretary of State shall issue a registration certificate and special designating plate for a motorcycle to be used in lieu of a registration plate issued in subsection 2 to any 100% disabled veteran if an applicant submits the following together with an application: A. Evidence of payment of the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 ; and [PL 1999, c. 734, §2 (NEW).] B. Certification from the United States Veterans Administration or any branch of the United States Armed Forces as to the veteran's permanent disability and receipt of 100% service-connected benefits. [PL 1999, c. 734, §2 (NEW).] Notwithstanding section 468 , the Secretary of State may issue fewer than 2,000 of the plates authorized by this subsection, and this plate does not require a sponsor. These special designating plates must bear the word "Veteran." [PL 1999, c. 734, §2 (NEW).]

3. Special veterans registration plates. The Secretary of State, on application and evidence of payment of the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 and the registration fee required by section 501 or by section 504, subsection 1 for a vehicle with a registered gross weight over 10,000 pounds, shall issue a registration certificate and a set of special veterans registration plates to be used in lieu of regular registration plates for a vehicle with a registered gross weight of not more than 26,000 pounds to any person who has served in the United States Armed Forces and who has been honorably discharged, any person who has served a minimum of 20 years in the National Guard and has been honorably discharged or to a person who has served in the United States Armed Forces for at least 3 years and continues to serve. If a person who qualifies for a special veterans registration plate under this subsection is a primary driver of any vehicle, the Secretary of State may issue in accordance with this section a set of special veterans registration plates for each vehicle. Each application must be accompanied by the applicant's Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge, DD Form 214, certification from the United States Veterans Administration or the appropriate branch of the United States Armed Forces verifying the applicant's military service and honorable discharge, a letter from the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services verifying active duty military service and length of service or a Form 22 from the United States Department of Defense, National Guard Bureau indicating a minimum of 20 years of service. The Secretary of State shall recall a special veterans registration plate of a recipient who has been less than honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces. All surplus revenue collected for issuance of the special veterans registration plates is retained by the Secretary of State to maintain and support this program. The surviving spouse of a special veterans registration plate recipient issued plates in accordance with this subsection may retain and display the special veterans registration plates as long as the surviving spouse remains unmarried. Upon remarriage, the surviving spouse may not use the special veterans registration plates on a motor vehicle, but may retain them as a keepsake. Upon the death of the surviving spouse, the family may retain the special veterans registration plates, but may not use them on a motor vehicle. The Secretary of State may issue a special disability registration plate for veterans in accordance with section 521, subsections 1 , 5 , 7 and 9 . The special disability registration plate for veterans must bear the International Symbol of Access. The Secretary of State may issue a set of special veterans registration plates when the qualifying veteran is the primary driver of a company-owned vehicle if: A. The company is owned solely by a veteran who qualifies for a veteran plate under this section; [PL 2007, c. 383, §15 (NEW).] B. The vehicle is leased by a veteran who qualifies for the veteran plate under this subsection; or [PL 2007, c. 383, §15 (NEW).] C. The vehicle is leased by the employer of a veteran who qualifies for the veteran plate and the employer has assigned the vehicle exclusively to the veteran. The employer must attest in writing that the veteran will have exclusive use of the vehicle and agrees to the display of the special veterans registration plate. [PL 2023, c. 646, Pt. A, §33 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 646, Pt. A, §33 (AMD).]

3-A. Motorcycle plates; veterans. In addition to any plate issued pursuant to subsection 3 , the Secretary of State, on application and evidence of payment of the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 and the registration fee required by section 515, subsection 1 , shall issue a registration certificate and a special veterans registration plate for any designated motorcycles owned or controlled by a person who has served in the United States Armed Forces and who has been honorably discharged, a person who has served a minimum of 20 years in the National Guard and has been honorably discharged or to a person who has served in the United States Armed Forces for at least 3 years and continues to serve. Each application must be accompanied by the applicant's Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge, DD Form 214, certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or the appropriate branch of the United States Armed Forces verifying the applicant's military service and honorable discharge, a letter from the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services verifying active duty military service and length of service or a Form 22 from the United States Department of Defense, National Guard Bureau indicating a minimum of 20 years of service. The Secretary of State shall recall a special veterans registration plate of a recipient who has been less than honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces. All surplus revenue collected for issuance of the special veterans registration plates is retained by the Secretary of State to maintain and support this program. Upon request the Secretary of State shall issue special veterans registration plates for a motorcycle that are also vanity plates. These plates are issued in accordance with this section and section 453 . Vanity plates issued under this subsection may not duplicate vanity plates issued in another class of plate. The surviving spouse of a recipient of a special veterans registration plate issued in accordance with this subsection may retain and use the plate or plates as long as the surviving spouse remains unmarried. Upon remarriage, the surviving spouse may not use the plate or plates, but may retain them. Upon the death of the surviving spouse, the family may retain the plate or plates, but may not use them. The Secretary of State may not issue special commemorative decals under subsection 5 or 6 for use on special veterans registration plates for a motorcycle. [PL 2023, c. 257, §10 (AMD).]

4. Veterans vanity plates. Upon request and as provided by section 453 , the Secretary of State shall issue veterans registration plates that are also vanity plates. Veterans registration vanity plates are issued in accordance with this section and section 453. [PL 2013, c. 496, §11 (AMD).]

5. Special commemorative decals for medals, badges or ribbons awarded. The Secretary of State may issue special commemorative decals for use with special veterans registration plates to any person who served in the uniformed services of the United States, was honorably discharged and was awarded a medal, badge or ribbon described in paragraphs A to CC when that person's application is accompanied by the appropriate military certification verifying that the medal, badge or ribbon was awarded to the applicant. One set of commemorative decals may be issued for each set of special veterans registration plates issued under this section. One set of 2 commemorative decals must be displayed on the front and back plates. The fee for a set of commemorative decals may not exceed $5. Special commemorative decals may be issued to applicants awarded the following medals, badges or ribbons: A. Distinguished Service Cross; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] B. Navy Cross; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] C. Air Force Cross; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] D. Silver Star; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] E. Distinguished Flying Cross; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] F. Bronze Star; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] G. Soldier's Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] H. Navy or Marine Corps Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] I. Airman's Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] J. Coast Guard Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] K. Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] L. European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] M. Korean Service Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] N. Vietnam Service Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] O. Southwest Asia Service Medal; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] P. Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; [PL 2005, c. 420, §1 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 433, §8 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 433, §28 (AFF).] Q. Kosovo Service Medal; [PL 2005, c. 683, Pt. A, §47 (RPR).] R. Korea Defense Service Medal; [PL 2005, c. 683, Pt. A, §48 (RPR).] S. Global War on Terrorism Medal; [PL 2005, c. 433, §9 (NEW); PL 2005, c. 433, §28 (AFF).] T. Iraq Campaign Medal; [PL 2009, c. 437, §1 (AMD).] U. Afghanistan Campaign Medal; [PL 2009, c. 437, §1 (AMD).] V. United States Army Combat Infantry Badge; [PL 2009, c. 437, §1 (NEW).] W. United States Army Combat Medic Badge; [PL 2009, c. 437, §1 (NEW).] X. United States Army Combat Action Badge; [PL 2009, c. 437, §1 (NEW).] Y. United States Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard Combat Action Ribbon; [PL 2011, c. 22, §1 (AMD).] Z. United States Air Force Combat Action Medal; [PL 2017, c. 8, §1 (AMD).] AA. National Emergency Service Medal; [PL 2025, c. 382, §1 (AMD).] BB. Air Medal; and [PL 2025, c. 382, §1 (AMD).] CC. Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal. [PL 2025, c. 382, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 382, §1 (AMD).]

6. Special commemorative decals for branches of armed forces. The Secretary of State may issue special commemorative decals for use with special veterans registration plates to any person who served in the uniformed services of the United States and was honorably discharged when that person's application is accompanied by the appropriate military certification verifying the applicant's service. One set of commemorative decals may be issued for each set of special veterans registration plates issued under this section. One set of 2 commemorative decals must be displayed on the front and back plate. The fee for a set of commemorative decals may not exceed $5. Special commemorative decals may be issued to applicants who served in the: A. United States Army; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] B. United States Air Force; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] C. United States Navy; [PL 2001, c. 453, §2 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 453, §4 (AFF).] D. United States Marine Corps; [PL 2025, c. 382, §2 (AMD).] E. United States Coast Guard; [PL 2025, c. 382, §2 (AMD).] F. United States Space Force; [PL 2025, c. 382, §2 (NEW).] G. United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps; and [PL 2025, c. 382, §2 (NEW).] H. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps. [PL 2025, c. 382, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 382, §2 (AMD).]

7. Moratorium on decals for use with special veterans registration plates. [PL 2019, c. 397, §11 (RP).]

8. Wabanaki decal. The Secretary of State may issue a set of 2 Wabanaki decals to a person who has or receives a special veterans registration plate if the Secretary of State receives an application and a statement signed by a tribal official from a federally recognized tribe within the Wabanaki Confederacy proving the applicant's membership in the tribe. One set of 2 Wabanaki decals must be displayed on the front and back plates. The fee for a set of Wabanaki decals may not exceed $5. [PL 2013, c. 586, Pt. I, §2 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1651 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1651
29-A §1651. Liability for minor
Status: in_force

An owner who knowingly permits a minor to operate that owner's vehicle on a public way is jointly and severally liable with that minor for damages caused by the negligence of the minor in operating that vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1609 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1609
29-A §1609. Nonresidents; accidents in other states
Status: in_force

1. Nonresidents. The following provisions apply to nonresidents. A. This chapter applies to a person who is not a resident of this State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. If a nonresident has failed to give proof of financial responsibility, that nonresident may not operate a vehicle in this State and may not allow a vehicle owned by that nonresident to be operated in this State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. The Secretary of State may not issue to a nonresident a license or register a vehicle owned by a nonresident in the same manner as required with respect to a resident of this State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. The operation by a nonresident, or with a nonresident owner's express or implied consent, of a vehicle on a public way acts as an appointment of the Secretary of State to be the nonresident's attorney, on whom may be served all lawful processes in an action growing out of an accident in which that nonresident or vehicle may be involved. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. When a nonresident's operating privilege is suspended, the Secretary of State shall transmit a certified copy of the record of that action to the appropriate official in the nonresident's state. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Accidents in other states. On receipt of certification that the operating privilege of a resident of this State has been suspended or revoked by another state for failure to provide proof of financial responsibility under circumstances that require the Secretary of State to suspend a nonresident's operating privilege had an accident occurred in this State, the Secretary of State may suspend the license of that resident and the registrations of vehicles owned by that resident. The suspension may continue until the resident furnishes proof of compliance with the law of the other state. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]