29-A M.R.S. § 2551-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2551-A
29-A §2551-A. Habitual offender
Status: in_force

1. Habitual offender defined. An habitual offender is a person whose record, as maintained by the Secretary of State, shows that: A. The person has accumulated 3 or more convictions or adjudications for distinct offenses described in this paragraph arising out of separate acts committed within a 5-year period: (1) Homicide resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle; (2) OUI conviction; (3) Driving to endanger, in violation of section 2413 ; (4) Operating after suspension or revocation, in violation of section 2412‑A ; (5) Operating without a license; (6) Operating after revocation, in violation of former section 2557 , section 2557‑A or section 2558 ; (7) Knowingly making a false affidavit or swearing or affirming falsely in a statement required by this Title or as to information required in the administration of this Title; (8) A Class A, B, C or D offense in which a motor vehicle is used; (9) Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death, in violation of section 2252 ; (10) Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage, in violation of section 2253 , 2254 or 2255 ; (11) Eluding an officer, in violation of section 2414 ; (12) Passing a roadblock, in violation of section 2414, subsection 4 ; (13) Operating a motor vehicle at a speed that exceeds the maximum speed limit by 30 miles per hour or more; and (14) For a person whose license is reinstated pursuant to section 2412‑A, subsection 7 or section 2508 , operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device; tampering with or circumventing the operation of an ignition interlock device; or requesting or soliciting another person to blow into or otherwise activate an ignition interlock device for the purpose of providing the person with an operable motor vehicle; or [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §30 (AMD).] B. The person has accumulated 10 or more convictions or adjudications for moving violations arising out of separate acts committed within a 5-year period. [PL 2005, c. 606, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).] [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §30 (AMD).]

2. Inclusions. The offenses included in subsection 1 include offenses under former Title 29 , a federal law, a law of another state and a municipal ordinance substantially conforming to the statutory violations. [PL 2005, c. 606, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]

3. Offenses not included. The following convictions are not included under subsection 1, paragraph A : A. A conviction of operating a motor vehicle without a license if the license had expired and was not suspended or revoked; [PL 2009, c. 58, §1 (AMD).] B. A conviction of operating after suspension when the suspension is based upon a failure to pay child support; [PL 2009, c. 297, §3 (AMD).] C. A conviction of operating after suspension when the suspension is based solely on a failure to pay the reinstatement fee required by section 2486 ; and [PL 2009, c. 297, §3 (AMD).] D. An adjudication for the traffic infraction of operating after suspension under section 2412‑A, subsection 8 . [PL 2009, c. 297, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2009, c. 297, §3 (AMD).]

4. Multiple offenses or violations. For the purposes of this section, when more than one offense or violation described in this section arises from the same incident, the offenses or violations are treated as one offense or violation. [PL 2005, c. 606, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2455 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2455
29-A §2455. Provisions regarding revocation when homicide is alcohol or drug related
Status: in_force

1. Report by district attorney. The district attorney shall forward a report to the Secretary of State when any person is convicted of a criminal homicide or adjudicated to have committed a juvenile offense of criminal homicide as the result of that person's operation of a motor vehicle when: A. The person was operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, or with an alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or 210 liters of breath; [PL 2009, c. 447, §50 (AMD).] B. The person had not attained the legal drinking age and was operating a motor vehicle with an alcohol level of more than 0.00 grams per 100 milliliters of blood or 210 liters of breath; [PL 2009, c. 447, §50 (AMD).] C. There was probable cause to believe that the person was operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs and failed to comply with that person's duty to submit to and complete required chemical testing; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. There was probable cause to believe that the person had not attained the legal drinking age and was operating a motor vehicle with an alcohol level of more than 0.00 grams per 100 milliliters of blood or 210 liters of breath and failed to comply with the duty to submit to and complete a test to determine alcohol level. [PL 2009, c. 447, §50 (AMD).] [PL 2009, c. 447, §50 (AMD).]

2. Content of report. The report required in subsection 1 must contain all relevant facts that formed the basis for the conviction or adjudication, including chemical test results if available. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Substance use disorder programs. Upon receipt of the report required in subsection 1 , the Secretary of State shall require that the following conditions be met before that person may be licensed or permitted to operate a motor vehicle: A. Satisfactory completion of the Driver Education and Evaluation Programs of the Department of Health and Human Services; [PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. AA, §79 (AMD).] B. When required, satisfactory completion of a substance use disorder treatment program or rehabilitation program approved or licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services; and [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §117 (AMD).] C. When required, attendance at an after-care program arranged by the approved treatment or rehabilitation program. [PL 2001, c. 511, §4 (AMD).] [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §117 (AMD).]

4. Alcohol or drug programs following incarceration. Any of the alcohol or drug programs required in subsection 3 may begin only upon release from a county jail or from a facility operated by the Department of Corrections. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2081 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2081
29-A §2081. Use of safety seat belts and child restraint systems
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (RP).] A-1. "Belt positioning seat" means a child restraint system that positions a child on a motor vehicle seat to improve the fit of a seat belt on the child. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (NEW).] A-2. "Child restraint system" means any device, except a Type I seat belt or Type II seat belt, designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat and position children who weigh 80 pounds or less and that meets the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (NEW).] A-3. "Convertible child restraint system" means a child restraint system capable of positioning a child to face either in the direction of the front of the motor vehicle or the rear of the motor vehicle. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (NEW).] A-4. "Child passenger safety technician with special needs training" means a person certified by a national child passenger safety certification program using a curriculum approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to provide instruction in the use of child restraint systems who also has special needs training provided by that program. [PL 2019, c. 577, §1 (NEW).] B. "Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards" means the standards described in 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 571, in effect on January 1, 1981, as subsequently amended. [PL 2001, c. 585, §1 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 585, §6 (AFF).] C. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (RP).] D. "Rear-facing child restraint system" means a child restraint system that positions a child to face the rear of the motor vehicle. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (NEW).] E. "Type I seat belt" means a lap belt designed for pelvic restraint of a person seated in a motor vehicle. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (NEW).] F. "Type II seat belt" means a combination of belts designed for pelvic and upper torso restraint of a person seated in a motor vehicle. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 577, §1 (AMD).]

2. Children under 40 pounds. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (RP).]

2-A. Children under 2 years of age. When a child who is less than 2 years of age is being transported in a motor vehicle that is required by the United States Department of Transportation to be equipped with seat belts, the operator shall ensure that the child is properly secured in a rear-facing child restraint system or convertible child restraint system properly secured in the rear-facing position in accordance with the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle manufacturer's instructions, except if the child is in a convertible child restraint system and the child exceeds the manufacturer recommended weight or height limit for the rear-facing position the child may be properly secured in a forward-facing position in accordance with the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction for which a fine of $50 for the first offense, $125 for the 2nd offense and $250 for the 3rd and subsequent offenses must be imposed. A fine imposed under this subsection may not be suspended by the court. [PL 2019, c. 577, §2 (AMD).]

2-B. Children 2 years of age or older and weighing less than 55 pounds. When a child who is 2 years of age or older and who weighs less than 55 pounds is being transported in a motor vehicle that is required by the United States Department of Transportation to be equipped with seat belts, the operator shall ensure that the child is properly secured in a child restraint system with an internal harness in accordance with the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle manufacturer's instructions except that, if the child exceeds the child restraint system manufacturer's recommended height limit for the child restraint system, the operator shall ensure that the child is properly secured in a federally approved belt positioning seat. Violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction for which a fine of $50 for the first offense, $125 for the 2nd offense and $250 for the 3rd and subsequent offenses must be imposed. A fine imposed under this subsection may not be suspended by the court. [PL 2021, c. 293, Pt. B, §5 (AMD).]

3. Passengers less than 18 years of age. Except as provided in subsections 2‑A and 2‑B , the following provisions apply to passengers less than 18 years of age riding in a vehicle that is required by the United States Department of Transportation to be equipped with seat belts. Violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction for which a fine of $50 for the first offense, $125 for the 2nd offense and $250 for the 3rd and subsequent offenses must be imposed. A fine imposed under this subsection may not be suspended by the court. A. The operator shall ensure that a child who weighs less than 80 pounds, who is less than 57 inches in height and who is less than 8 years of age is properly secured in a belt positioning seat or other child restraint system in accordance with the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. [PL 2019, c. 577, §4 (AMD).] B. The operator shall ensure that a child who is less than 18 years of age and who is not required to be secured under paragraph A or subsection 2‑A or 2‑B is properly secured in a seat belt. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (AMD).] C. The operator shall ensure that a child who is less than 12 years of age is properly secured in the rear seat of a vehicle, if possible. [PL 2019, c. 577, §5 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 577, §§4, 5 (AMD).]

3-A. Other passengers 18 years of age and older; operators. When a person 18 years of age or older is a passenger in a vehicle that is required by the United States Department of Transportation to be equipped with seat belts, the passenger must be properly secured in a seat belt. Each such passenger is responsible for wearing a seat belt as required by this subsection, and a passenger that fails to wear a seat belt as required by this subsection is subject to the enforcement provisions of subsection 4 . The operator of a vehicle that is required by the United States Department of Transportation to be equipped with seat belts must be properly secured in the operator's seat belt. Violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction for which a fine of $50 for the first offense, $125 for the 2nd offense and $250 for the 3rd and subsequent offenses must be imposed. A fine imposed under this subsection may not be suspended by the court. A vehicle, the contents of a vehicle, the driver of or a passenger in a vehicle may not be inspected or searched solely because of a violation of this subsection. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (AMD).]

4. Enforcement. The following provisions apply to subsection 3‑A . A. The requirements of subsection 3‑A do not apply to a passenger over 18 years of age when the number of passengers exceeds the vehicle seating capacity and all of the seat belts are in use. [PL 2019, c. 299, §2 (AMD).] A-1. The requirements of subsection 3‑A do not apply to a driver or passenger who has a medical condition that, in the opinion of a licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse, warrants an exemption from the requirements of subsection 3‑A and that medical condition and opinion are documented by a certificate from that licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse. That certificate is valid for the period designated by the licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse, which may not exceed 6 years. The Secretary of State may issue a removable windshield placard that is visible to law enforcement officers to a person with a certificate from a licensed physician, physician associate, nurse practitioner or registered nurse. A removable windshield placard is a 2-sided permit designed to hang from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is in motion without obstructing the view of the operator. 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 in motion. If the vehicle is not equipped with a rearview mirror, the placard must be displayed on the dashboard. The placard must be identifiable as a seat belt placard as designed by the Secretary of State. A placard issued to a person under this paragraph expires when the licensed physician's, physician associate's, nurse practitioner's or registered nurse's certificate expires. [PL 2023, c. 634, §31 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).] A-2. The requirements of subsections 2‑A , 2‑B and 3 do not apply if a child passenger has a medical condition that, in the opinion of a physician, nurse practitioner, physician associate or child passenger safety technician with special needs training, necessitates that a different child restraint system be used to improve the safety of the child. An opinion rendered pursuant to this paragraph must: (1) Be made in writing by the physician, nurse practitioner, physician associate or child passenger safety technician with special needs training; (2) Recommend a child restraint system that would improve the safety of the child; and (3) Explain the basis of the opinion. The operator of a motor vehicle transporting a child identified in this paragraph shall ensure the child is properly secured in a child restraint system recommended in the opinion rendered by the physician, nurse practitioner, physician associate or child passenger safety technician with special needs training under this paragraph in accordance with the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. [PL 2019, c. 577, §6 (NEW); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).] B. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. AAA, §4 (RP).] C. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. AAA, §5 (RP).] D. [PL 2005, c. 12, Pt. AAA, §6 (RP).] E. [PL 2007, c. 60, §2 (RP).] [PL 2023, c. 634, §31 (AMD); PL 2025, c. 316, §3 (REV).]

5. Evidence. In an accident involving a motor vehicle, the nonuse of seat belts by the operator or passengers or the failure to secure a child is not admissible in evidence in a civil or criminal trial, except in a trial for violation of this section. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Exceptions. Notwithstanding subsection 3‑A : A. A rural mail carrier of the United States Postal Service is not required to be secured in a seat belt while engaged in the delivery of mail; [PL 2009, c. 34, §1 (AMD).] B. The operator of a taxicab or a limousine is not responsible for securing in a seat belt a passenger transported for a fee; and [PL 2009, c. 34, §1 (AMD).] C. A newspaper delivery person is not required to be secured in a seat belt while engaged in the actual delivery of newspapers from a vehicle or performing newspaper delivery duties that require frequent entry into and exit from a vehicle. [PL 2009, c. 34, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2009, c. 34, §1 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 557 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 557
29-A §557. Municipal authority
Status: in_force

This subchapter does not restrict the authority of a municipality to enact ordinances to regulate and control the routing, parking, speed or safety of operation of motor vehicles; to exercise general police power over its public ways; or to require compliance with certain conditions before a motor vehicle is operated within that municipality. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1907 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1907
29-A §1907. Rear reflectors
Status: in_force

A vehicle must be equipped with at least one adequate reflector securely attached to the rear. The reflector: [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Part of rear light. May be a part of the rear light; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Color. Must be red; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Reflection. Must be designed, located and maintained to reflect at night on an unlighted highway, from at least 200 feet, the lawful undimmed headlights of a vehicle approaching from the rear. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Exceptions. This section does not apply to animal‑drawn vehicles or unregistered farm tractors. [PL 2019, c. 170, §1 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2360 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 21 / Section 2360
29-A §2360. Excess vehicle weight
Status: in_force

1. Violation of weight provision. A person who operates or causes operation of a motor vehicle in violation of a weight provision for any axle or group of axles or gross vehicle weight commits a traffic infraction if the vehicle is: A. One percent to 10% over allowed basic weight; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] B. Eleven percent to 20% over allowed basic weight; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] C. Twenty-one percent to 30% over allowed basic weight; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] D. Thirty-one percent to 40% over allowed basic weight; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] E. Forty-one percent to 50% over allowed basic weight; or [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] F. More than 50% over allowed basic weight. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §66 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

2. Penalty. Notwithstanding section 101, subsection 85 , a person who is guilty of excessive vehicle weight must be punished by a fine in accordance with this section. When both gross and axle weight limits are exceeded, the penalty imposed must be for the violation that results in the higher fine except that, for a violation of section 2355 , a minimum fine must also be imposed for any other applicable violation of section 2355 in accordance with subsection 9 . [PL 1995, c. 546, §1 (AMD).]

3. Schedule of fines. Except as provided in section 2354, subsection 2 , the fine must be based on the amount of gross vehicle weight or axle weight in excess of the limits prescribed in sections 2352 to 2355 , 2357 or 2365 , as appropriate. This schedule is cumulative: Percent over allowed basic weight Fine for each percent 1-10% $10 for each percent 11-20% $100 + $65 for each percent over 10% 21-30% $750 + $75 for each percent over 20% 31-40% $1,500 + $105 for each percent over 30% 41-50% $2,550 + $140 for each percent over 40% more than 50% $3,950 + $180 for each percent over 50% [PL 2001, c. 267, §6 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).]

4. Minor gross weight violations. The fine is waived and a Violation Summons and Complaint is not issued if the allowable gross vehicle weight is exceeded by less than 500 pounds multiplied by the number of axles less one. If the allowable gross weight is exceeded by more than 500 but less than 1,000 pounds multiplied by the number of axles less one, the fine is reduced by 50%. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]

5. Minor axle weight violations. The fine is waived and a Violation Summons and Complaint is not issued if the allowable weight on an axle or group of axles is exceeded by less than 1,000 pounds. If the excess is less than 1,000 pounds plus 500 pounds multiplied by the number of axles in the axle group, the fine is reduced by 66%. If the excess is less than 1,000 pounds plus 1,000 pounds multiplied by the number of axles in the axle group, the fine is reduced by 50%. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]

6. Axle overweight not exceeding 5%. The fine is waived and a Violation Summons and Complaint is not issued if, before any redistribution of load under subsection 7 , the gross vehicle weight is not exceeded and the weight of a single-axle unit, tandem-axle unit or tri-axle unit is not more than 105% of the allowable weight for that axle unit. [PL 1995, c. 584, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]

7. Redistribution of load. Notwithstanding subsections 1 to 6 , when an officer determines that a vehicle that is within the gross vehicle weight limit is in violation of an axle weight limit, the officer shall permit the operator to redistribute the load once before proceeding. If redistribution brings the vehicle into compliance with axle limits, then the fine is reduced as follows: A. If the violation is less than 2,000 pounds, no penalty; and [PL 2009, c. 442, §2 (AMD).] B. If the violation is less than 3,000 pounds, by 66%. [PL 2009, c. 442, §2 (AMD).] C. [PL 2009, c. 442, §2 (RP).] [PL 2009, c. 442, §2 (AMD).]

8. Multiple reductions. If multiple waivers or reductions of fines may apply, the subsection that gives the smallest fine applies. Reductions may not be combined. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

9. Minimum fine. For a vehicle using the Interstate Highway System, the minimum fine for a gross vehicle weight or axle weight violation is $60, which may not be waived, and cost of court. For a vehicle on all other highways, the minimum fine for a gross vehicle weight or axle weight violation is $30. [PL 2001, c. 267, §7 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).]

10. Application. Subsections 4 to 7 do not apply to travel on the Interstate Highway System. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

11. Prima facie evidence. Operation of a vehicle is prima facie evidence that the operation was caused by the person acting as a motor carrier as determined by the United States Department of Transportation census number. [PL 2009, c. 598, §40 (AMD).]

12. Exception. [PL 2009, c. 598, §41 (RP).]

13. Notice of failure to appear or noncompliance with orders. 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 section, the court shall notify the Secretary of State. [PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §153 (AFF); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §10 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. C, §15 (AFF).]

14. Suspension of registrations. After receiving notice pursuant to subsection 13 , 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 remains in effect until the person appears in court and complies with a court order. [PL 2009, c. 598, §42 (AMD).]

15. Portable scale allowance factor. For vehicles operating on the Interstate Highway System it is not a violation if the gross vehicle weight or axle weights measured by portable scales approved by the Department of Transportation do not exceed 104% of the allowable weights provided by section 2355, subsections 1 and 2 . [PL 1995, c. 517, §1 (NEW).]

16. Exception to fine schedule for special commodities tandem axle and tri-axle. Notwithstanding subsections 3 and 5 , the following fines are imposed. A. For a 4-axle single unit vehicle hauling special commodities other than forest products with a tri-axle weight for which a Violation Summons and Complaint may be issued, but which is less than 58,200 pounds, the fine is $150. [PL 2001, c. 267, §8 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).] B. For a 3-axle single unit vehicle hauling special commodities other than forest products with a tandem weight for which a Violation Summons and Complaint may be issued, but which is less than 49,300 pounds, the fine is $315. [PL 2001, c. 267, §8 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 267, §16 (AFF).] C. For a 5-axle or 6-axle tractor-semitrailer vehicle registered for less than 100,000 pounds gross weight hauling special commodities with a tandem axle weight of at least 47,000 pounds but not more than 48,260 pounds for which a Violation Summons and Complaint may be issued, the fine is $731 plus $136 for every 315 pounds over 47,000 pounds. Subsections 3 and 5 apply to tandem axle weights of less than 47,000 pounds or exceeding 48,260 pounds. [PL 2005, c. 426, §3 (NEW); PL 2007, c. 453, §2 (AFF).] [PL 2005, c. 426, §3 (NEW); PL 2007, c. 453, §2 (AFF).]

17. Exception to fine schedule for forest products tri-axle. Notwithstanding subsections 3 and 5 , for a 4-axle single unit vehicle hauling forest products with a tri-axle weight for which a Violation Summons and Complaint may be issued, but which is less than 66,500 pounds, the fine is $220. If the tri-axle weight is at least 66,500 pounds, but is less than 70,560 pounds, the fine is $634 plus $414 for every 580 pounds over 66,500 pounds. Subsection 3 applies to tri-axle weights of 70,560 pounds or more. [PL 2005, c. 426, §3 (AMD); PL 2007, c. 453, §2 (AFF).]

18. Exception to fine schedule for vehicle auxiliary power units. For a heavy duty vehicle equipped with an auxiliary power unit, the gross vehicle weight or axle weight used to determine the fine for a violation under this section is the actual gross vehicle weight or axle weight reduced by 400 pounds. [PL 2009, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 515-B — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 515-B
29-A §515-B. Purple Heart medal recipients; special motorcycle registration plates
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State, on application and upon evidence of payment of the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 , shall issue a registration certificate and a Purple Heart motorcycle registration plate, to be used in lieu of a regular registration plate, to a person who is a Purple Heart medal recipient. Notwithstanding section 468 , the Secretary of State may issue fewer than 2,000 of the plates authorized by this section, and this plate does not require a sponsor. [PL 2003, c. 67, §1 (AMD).]

1. Application. An application for Purple Heart motorcycle registration plates must be accompanied by proof that the applicant has been awarded the Purple Heart medal. The Secretary of State shall verify the documentation presented by the applicant. Misrepresentation of documents is in violation of section 2103, subsection 5 . [PL 1999, c. 734, §1 (NEW).]

2. Surviving spouse. The surviving spouse of a Purple Heart recipient issued motorcycle registration plates in accordance with this subsection may retain and display the Purple Heart plates as long as the surviving spouse remains unmarried. Upon remarriage, the surviving spouse may not use the Purple Heart plates on a motorcycle, but may retain them as a keepsake. Upon the death of the surviving spouse, the family may retain the Purple Heart plates, but may not use them on a motorcycle. [PL 1999, c. 734, §1 (NEW).]

3. Design. The Secretary of State shall determine the design of the Purple Heart motorcycle registration plate. Upon request and as provided by section 453 , the Secretary of State shall issue Purple Heart motorcycle registration plates that are also vanity plates. Purple Heart vanity plates are issued in accordance with this section and section 453 . [PL 2013, c. 496, §9 (AMD).]

4. Recognition plates. A Purple Heart recipient or the surviving spouse of a Purple Heart recipient who does not operate a motorcycle or register a motorcycle and who otherwise qualifies for the issuance of special Purple Heart motorcycle registration plates may apply to the Secretary of State for a special single plate recognizing that award. The Secretary of State shall design and identify these special single plates for recognition purposes only. Special single plates may not be attached to a motorcycle. Only one plate may be issued to each recipient. [PL 2011, c. 356, §11 (AMD).]

The Secretary of State shall begin issuing Purple Heart motorcycle registration plates in accordance with this section no later than November 1, 2000. [PL 1999, c. 734, §1 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 152 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 3 / Section 152
29-A §152. Powers of Secretary of State
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State may: [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

1. Investigation for information. Make necessary investigations for information required to carry out the provisions of this Title, including, but not limited to, review of records and investigations in the field; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Deputize agents, examiners and detectives. Appoint and deputize agents, examiners and motor vehicle detectives, stationed at convenient places, to receive applications for registration and licenses for the operation of vehicles, to conduct examinations and to perform assigned duties. A motor vehicle detective has the powers and duty to enforce all provisions of this Title and Title 17‑A and all the laws of the State with the same powers that a sheriff has in a county. A motor vehicle detective is at all times subject to all other investigatory duties assigned by the Secretary of State. [PL 2017, c. 229, §8 (AMD).]

3. Central computer system. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, purchase and maintain a central computer system for purposes of administering this Title and conducting departmental operations. All other uses must be approved by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall adopt rules regarding the maintenance and use of data processing information files required to be kept confidential and shall distinguish those files from files available to the public; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Facsimile signature of Secretary of State. Use a facsimile signature, which has the same validity as the Secretary of State's written signature and is admissible in court; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Assign new identification number. Assign a new identification number to a vehicle if it has none, or if the vehicle's identification number is destroyed or obliterated, or if the frame, chassis or, if the vehicle is a truck, the cab is changed, or if the vehicle is a reconstructed motorcycle, and shall issue a new certificate of title showing the new identification number upon surrender of the old certificate and completion of an application for title and payment of the fee; [PL 2023, c. 257, §1 (AMD).]

6. Other data. Require data necessary on forms, applications, certificates, licenses or other documents; and [PL 2023, c. 257, §2 (AMD).]

7. Waive penalty or fee. Waive a penalty or fee required under this Title if the Secretary of State or the secretary's designee determines that the circumstances justify a waiver. The Secretary of State shall adopt rules to administer this subsection that must include but are not limited to rules identifying circumstances that may justify a waiver. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2023, c. 257, §3 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1768 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1768
29-A §1768. Unlawful acts
Status: in_force

1. Display of fictitious certificate. A person commits a Class E crime if that person displays or permits to be displayed on a vehicle a certificate of inspection knowing the certificate to be fictitious or issued to another vehicle or issued without an inspection having been made. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Use of counterfeit certificate of inspection. A person commits a Class E crime if the person makes, possesses, issues or knowingly uses an imitation or counterfeit of an official certificate of inspection or a certificate of inspection that was not issued by an official inspection station in accordance with law. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Misrepresentation of vehicle inspection station. A person commits a Class E crime if that person represents a place as an official inspection station and the station is not operating under a valid license. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Issuance of certificate for substandard vehicle. A person commits a Class E crime if that person knowingly causes an official inspection sticker to be attached to a vehicle that does not conform to the inspection standard. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Operation of defective vehicle. A person may not operate a vehicle on a public way with equipment on the vehicle that does not conform to the standards set forth in rules adopted by the Chief of the State Police pursuant to section 1769 . A. Except as provided in paragraphs B and C , a person who violates this subsection commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. C, §13 (NEW).] B. A person who violates this subsection commits a Class E crime if the vehicle is unsafe for operation because it poses an immediate hazard to an occupant of the vehicle or the general public. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. C, §13 (NEW).] C. A person who violates this subsection and is involved in a motor vehicle accident caused by nonconformance with the rules adopted by the Chief of the State Police pursuant to section 1769 commits a Class E crime. [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. C, §13 (NEW).] [PL 2003, c. 688, Pt. C, §13 (RPR).]

6. Alteration after inspection. A person commits a Class E crime if that person alters equipment after inspection so that the equipment does not conform to the standards of this subchapter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Operation of vehicle without certificate of inspection. An owner or operator of a vehicle required to be inspected commits a traffic infraction if that person operates that vehicle or permits that vehicle to be operated without displaying a current and valid certificate of inspection or producing the certificate on demand of a police officer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

8. Performance of inspections, issuance of inspection certificate by a person with a suspended or revoked inspection mechanic license. A person commits a Class E crime if, at a time when the person's inspection mechanic license is suspended or revoked pursuant to section 1763 , the person: A. Performs a state motor vehicle inspection or federally approved motor vehicle inspection in order for a certificate of inspection or report to be issued by a 3rd party; or [PL 2011, c. 448, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 448, §4 (AFF).] B. Issues a state or federally approved certificate of inspection or report. [PL 2011, c. 448, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 448, §4 (AFF).] [PL 2011, c. 448, §1 (NEW); PL 2011, c. 448, §4 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2453 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2453
29-A §2453. Suspension on administrative determination; excessive alcohol level
Status: in_force

1. Purpose. The purpose of this section is: A. To provide maximum safety for all persons who travel on or otherwise use the public ways; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. To remove quickly from public ways those persons who have shown themselves to be a safety hazard by operating a motor vehicle with an excessive alcohol level. [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).] [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).]

2. Definition. For the purposes of this section, "operating a motor vehicle with an excessive alcohol level" means operating a motor vehicle with an alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or 210 liters of breath. [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).]

3. Suspension. The Secretary of State shall immediately suspend a license of a person determined to have operated a motor vehicle with an excessive alcohol level. [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).]

4. Drug and alcohol program. The Secretary of State may not suspend a license solely because a person has not satisfactorily completed an alcohol and drug program, as defined in subchapter 1 . This limitation does not affect statutory restoration authority. [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).]

5. Stay. If, within 10 days from the effective date of the suspension, the Secretary of State receives a request in writing for a hearing in accordance with section 2483 , the suspension is stayed until a hearing is held and a decision is issued. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Period of suspension. The following periods of suspension apply. A. The same suspension period applies as if the person were convicted of OUI. [PL 2003, c. 434, §29 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 434, §37 (AFF).] B. [PL 1997, c. 737, §13 (RP).] C. If a person's license is also suspended for an OUI conviction arising out of the same occurrence, the period of time the license has been suspended under this section prior to the conviction must be deducted from the period of time of a court-imposed suspension. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. The period of suspension is a minimum and the Secretary of State may suspend the license for an additional period under section 2451, subsection 3 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2003, c. 434, §29 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 434, §37 (AFF).]

7. Restoration of license. The Secretary of State may issue a license or permit as follows. A. Restoration of any license or permit to operate, right to operate a motor vehicle and right to apply for or obtain a license suspended under this section must be in accordance with sections 2502 to 2506 . [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).]

8. Hearing. The scope of the hearing must include whether: A. The person operated a motor vehicle with an excessive alcohol level; and [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).] B. There was probable cause to believe that the person was operating a motor vehicle with an excessive alcohol level. [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).] [PL 2009, c. 447, §49 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2302 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2302
29-A §2302. School bus markings; lights; mirrors; school bus crossing arms
Status: in_force

1. Identifications. Each school bus: A. Must be identified with the words, "school bus": (1) Printed in letters not less than 8 inches high; and (2) Located between the warning signal lamps as high as possible without impairing front and rear visibility of the lettering; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Must have no other lettering on the front or rear, except lettering not more than 4 inches high indicating an emergency exit and a bus number and lettering from the original manufacturer; [PL 2021, c. 582, §2 (AMD).] C. Must be painted national school bus glossy yellow, except that the hood may be lusterless black and the wheels and rub rails may be glossy black or, if the bus is an electric-powered school bus, the color painted by the original manufacturer; [PL 2021, c. 582, §3 (AMD).] D. Must have bumpers of glossy black unless painting is impracticable through use of rubber, reflective material or other devices or unless the bus is an electric-powered school bus and the bumpers were painted a different color by the original manufacturer; [PL 2021, c. 582, §4 (AMD).] E. Must be equipped with a system of signal lights that conform to school bus requirements approved by the Commissioner of Education; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. Must be equipped with a system of mirrors that give the seated operator a view of the way to each side of the bus, and of the area immediately in front of the front bumper; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] G. May be equipped with a system of stop arms or extended stop arms to be operated only with the red signal lights; and [PL 2019, c. 318, §3 (AMD).] H. May be equipped with reflective strips of national school bus yellow. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2021, c. 582, §§2-4 (AMD).]

1-A. School bus crossing arms. A school bus of model year 2021 or newer must be equipped with a school bus crossing arm. [PL 2019, c. 413, §2 (NEW).]

2. Smaller buses. [PL 2003, c. 293, §2 (RP).]

3. Other purposes. A school bus permanently converted wholly to other purposes must be painted a color other than national school bus glossy yellow and have the words "school bus," school bus signal lights and stop arms removed. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Other passengers. A school bus operated on a public way and transporting passengers who do not include school-age persons must have the words "school bus" removed or concealed and the school bus signal lamps may not be operable. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Application. A vehicle operated on a public way displaying the words "school bus" or with the equipment required by this section may only be used to transport school-age persons, as defined in section 2301 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 670 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 670
29-A §670. Maine Lemon Law vehicle
Status: in_force

This section applies to any motor vehicle subject to the disclosure requirements of Title 10, section 1163, subsection 7 . A manufacturer to whom the motor vehicle was returned pursuant to Title 10, section 1163, subsection 2 shall return the title of the motor vehicle to the Secretary of State with an application for a new title in the name of the manufacturer. The Secretary of State shall issue a certificate of title that includes the following brand: "Lemon Law Buyback." All subsequent certificates of title to that vehicle must contain the same brand. [PL 2007, c. 383, §18 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1354 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1354
29-A §1354. Driver education programs
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Applicant," as applied to a firm, partnership or association, includes the members of the firm, partnership or association and, as applied to a corporation, includes the officers and directors of the corporation. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] B. "Commercial driver education school" means a person engaged in teaching driver education for remuneration. Commercial driver education school does not include a noncommercial driver education school as defined in paragraph G . [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] C. "Driver education" means any type of instruction or tutoring given to a person in preparation to obtain a learner's permit or in preparing for an examination to obtain a driver's license in exchange for remuneration or course credit. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §20 (AMD).] D. "Driver education school" means a commercial driver education school or a noncommercial driver education school. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] E. [PL 2011, c. 556, §10 (RP).] F. "Instructor" means a person engaged in teaching driver education. [PL 2011, c. 556, §11 (AMD).] G. "Noncommercial driver education school" means a public secondary school, an approved private secondary school, career and technical education center, career and technical education region or adult education program conducted pursuant to Title 20‑A, chapter 315 that offers driver education. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF); PL 2003, c. 545, §5 (REV).] H. "Person" means an individual or individuals, firm, partnership, association or corporation. When used in any provision of this chapter that prescribes or imposes a fine or imprisonment, or both, "person," as applied to a corporation, includes the officers of the corporation. A firm, partnership, association or corporation may be subjected, as an entity, to the payment of a fine. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §20 (AMD).]

2. Licenses required. A person may not operate a driver education school, conduct driver education or act as an instructor unless licensed by the Secretary of State. A. A Class 1 driver education school license may be issued to a driver education school that employs Class 1 instructors and that is authorized to teach both the classroom and behind-the-wheel phases of driver education and behind-the-wheel private lessons to individuals who hold a valid learner's permit, driver's license or temporary driver's license. A driver education school licensed under this paragraph may also employ Class 2 instructors to provide the behind-the-wheel phase of driver education and behind-the-wheel private lessons. A driver education school licensed under this paragraph may teach both the classroom and behind-the-wheel phases of driver education and behind-the-wheel private lessons. [PL 2023, c. 257, §14 (AMD).] B. A Class 1 instructor license authorizes the holder to teach both the classroom and behind-the-wheel phases of driver education as an employee or affiliate of a licensed driver education school. [PL 2023, c. 257, §14 (AMD).] C. A Class 2 instructor license authorizes the holder to teach only the behind-the-wheel phase of driver education as an employee or affiliate of a licensed driver education school. [PL 2023, c. 257, §14 (AMD).] C-1. A Class 3 instructor license authorizes the holder to teach only the classroom phase of driver education as an employee or affiliate of a licensed driver education school. [PL 2023, c. 257, §14 (NEW).] D. A Class 2 driver education school license may be issued to a driver education school that employs a Class 1 or Class 2 instructor. A driver education school licensed under this paragraph may provide only behind-the-wheel private lessons to individuals who hold a valid learner's permit, driver's license or temporary driver's license. [PL 2023, c. 257, §14 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 257, §14 (AMD).]

3. Commercial driver education school license requirements. With assistance from the Technical Review Panel established in subsection 6 , the Secretary of State shall adopt rules governing the curriculum, facilities, operations, including record-keeping requirements, and issuance and renewal of licenses for noncommercial driver education schools and commercial driver education schools and instructors. A. The Secretary of State may not issue a license for a driver education school until the school owner has filed with the Secretary of State a certificate showing that each vehicle used during driving instruction is covered by an automobile bodily injury and property damage liability insurance policy insuring against any legal liability in accordance with the terms of the policy for personal injury or death of any one person in the sum of $100,000 and for any number of persons in the sum of $300,000 and against property damage in the sum of $100,000 arising from the operation of each vehicle being used in a commercial driver education school. In lieu of that insurance, the applicant may file with the Secretary of State a bond or bonds issued by a surety company authorized to do business in the State in the amount of at least $100,000 on account of injury to or death of one person and subject to such limits as respects injury to or death of one person, of at least $300,000 on account of any one accident resulting in injury to or death of more than one person and of at least $100,000 for damage to property of others. Failure to comply with this subsection is grounds for suspension or revocation of a driver education school license. [PL 2023, c. 634, §26 (AMD).] B. A vehicle used as a training vehicle must be maintained in safe mechanical condition at all times. Each vehicle must be equipped with dual-control foot brakes and, if the vehicle is not equipped with an automatic transmission, dual-control clutch pedals. While being used in actual instruction, a vehicle must be equipped with an identification sign listing the name of the school and a student driver sign. The following vehicles are not required to have dual controls and an identification sign listing the name of the school and a student driver sign: (1) A vehicle that is being used to instruct a person with a disability and is specially equipped for use by a person with a disability; and (2) A vehicle that is being used to instruct a person in possession of a valid Maine driver's license or learner's permit when the vehicle is not provided by the driver education school. [PL 2013, c. 381, Pt. B, §21 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 634, §26 (AMD).]

4. Instructor license requirements. With assistance from the Technical Review Panel established in subsection 6 , the Secretary of State shall adopt rules governing the issuance and renewal of instructor licenses. In addition to the requirements established by rule, each applicant must meet the following requirements: A. The applicant must be at least 21 years of age and have a high school diploma or its equivalent; [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] B. The applicant must have at least 4 years of driver experience as a licensed operator and possess a valid driver's license; [PL 2021, c. 216, §44 (AMD).] C. The applicant may not have had a license revoked pursuant to chapter 23, subchapter 5 within the preceding 6-year period; [PL 2011, c. 556, §14 (AMD).] D. The applicant may not have had an OUI as defined in section 2401, subsection 8 within the preceding 6-year period; [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] E. The applicant must pass a knowledge test prescribed by the Secretary of State; [PL 2021, c. 216, §44 (AMD).] F. The applicant must complete an educational program prescribed by the Secretary of State; [PL 2021, c. 216, §44 (AMD).] G. The applicant shall submit to a Department of Public Safety, State Bureau of Identification background check upon initial and renewal application. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles shall request the background check from the State Bureau of Identification. A fee must be assessed at the time of initial and renewal application pursuant to Title 25, section 1541, subsection 6 ; [PL 2021, c. 216, §44 (NEW).] H. The Secretary of State shall use state and federal criminal history record information for the purpose of screening driver education instructors in order to determine whether issuance of a driver education instructor license is granted or maintained; and [PL 2021, c. 216, §44 (NEW).] I. The applicant shall submit to having fingerprints taken. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles shall make available an approved list of agencies providing fingerprinting. Upon payment to an approved agency by the applicant and after the approved agency takes or causes to be taken the applicant's fingerprints and forwards the fingerprints to the State Bureau of Identification, the State Bureau of Identification shall conduct state and national criminal history record checks. Fingerprinting is required upon initial application and every 6 years thereafter. [PL 2023, c. 257, §15 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 257, §15 (AMD).]

5. License fees. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF); MRSA T. 29-A §1354, sub-§5 (RP).]

5-A. License fees. License fees must be paid to the Secretary of State and deposited into the Highway Fund. The following fees apply. A. The fee for a driver education school license is $150. [PL 2019, c. 352, §4 (AMD).] B. The fee for an instructor license is $200. [PL 2019, c. 352, §5 (AMD).] C. A driver education school license expires one year from the date of issuance. The fee for the renewal of a driver education school license is $150. An instructor license expires 2 years from the date of issuance. The fee for the renewal of an instructor license is $200. [PL 2019, c. 352, §5 (AMD).] D. A noncommercial driver education school that offers driver education for course credit and does not charge a fee for driver education is exempt from the license fees required in this subsection. An instructor employed by and providing driver education only in a school exempt from license fees in accordance with this paragraph is also exempt from license fees required in this subsection. [PL 2011, c. 556, §15 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 352, §§4, 5 (AMD).]

6. Secretary of State duties. The Secretary of State has the following duties. A. The Secretary of State shall establish the Technical Review Panel that includes representatives from the Department of Education, the Department of Public Safety, law enforcement agencies, the insurance industry and the motor carrier industry and 2 instructors licensed in the curriculum and training being reviewed. The Technical Review Panel shall assist the Secretary of State in developing curriculum and instructor training and certification. [PL 2019, c. 337, §6 (AMD).] B. The Secretary of State shall develop and implement a standardized driver education curriculum that establishes minimum standards for instructional goals and learning objectives. The Secretary of State shall require distribution of information on organ and tissue donation and the possibility of saving lives through organ donation. [PL 2003, c. 394, §3 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 394, §6 (AFF).] C. The Secretary of State shall develop and implement training programs for the licensing and relicensing of instructors. [PL 2011, c. 556, §17 (AMD).] D. The Secretary of State shall monitor classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction for compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] E. The Secretary of State shall develop and implement a system to monitor the driving records of individuals who complete a driver education program to assist in the evaluation of the effectiveness of driver education instruction and curriculum. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] F. The Secretary of State shall inspect driver education schools to review records, facilities, operating procedures, quality of instruction and compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).] G. The Secretary of State shall investigate written complaints regarding the activities of driver education schools and instructors. [PL 2011, c. 556, §18 (AMD).] [PL 2019, c. 337, §6 (AMD).]

7. Penalties. A person who conducts driver education, operates a driver education school or acts as an instructor without a license is guilty of a Class E crime. [PL 2019, c. 337, §7 (AMD).]

8. Suspension or revocation of license; hearings. The Secretary of State may suspend, revoke or refuse to issue or renew a driver education school or instructor license or deny a certificate of completion for just cause or for noncompliance with statutory and regulatory requirements in accordance with the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. A person refused a license or denied a certificate of completion or whose license is suspended or revoked may request a hearing with the Secretary of State. A requested hearing must be conducted pursuant to chapter 23, subchapter 3, article 3 . [PL 2019, c. 397, §20 (AMD).]

9. Insurance for graduates. Rating bureaus or independent insurers as recognized by the Superintendent of Insurance may grant an automobile insurance discount for driver education school graduates. [PL 1995, c. 505, §15 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 505, §22 (AFF).]

10. Surety bond. Except for a noncommercial driver education school exempt from license fees under subsection 5‑A, paragraph D , the Secretary of State shall require a driver education school licensed pursuant to subsection 2 to provide a surety bond to guarantee the discharge of the duties required under this subchapter. [PL 2015, c. 473, §17 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 468-A — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 468-A
29-A §468-A. Recognition license plates
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State may not issue a recognition license plate until the sponsor has met all of the requirements of this section and the proposed recognition license plate legislation as required by subsection 8 is reviewed by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters and approved by the Legislature. The Secretary of State shall administer a recognition license plate in accordance with this section. [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (AMD).]

1. Definition. "Recognition license plate" means a specially designed registration plate that may be used in place of the regular plate and registration for recognition purposes only and is not used for fundraising purposes. [PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §8 (AFF).]

2. Sponsor. A person shall register with the Secretary of State as the sponsor of a recognition license plate. [PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §8 (AFF).]

3. Names, signatures and payment. The Secretary of State may not manufacture an authorized recognition license plate unless a sponsor: A. Provides to the Secretary of State a list with 2,000 names, dated signatures and current plate numbers of supporters who have signed a statement declaring they intend to purchase and display the recognition license plate; and [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (NEW).] B. Collects from each supporter who signs the statement an amount of $25 for each set of plates and provides the Secretary of State the sum of these contributions in the amount of $50,000, which is nonrefundable. [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (NEW).] The Secretary of State shall deposit the $50,000 provided under paragraph B into the Specialty License Plate Fund established under section 469 . [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (AMD).]

3-A. Credit receipts. The Secretary of State shall provide 2,000 credit receipts to the sponsor to provide to each supporter that contributed $25. The credit receipt may be used only to obtain one set of specialty plates. [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (NEW).]

4. Registration fee. The fee for the recognition license plate is in addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee required by section 501 and the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 . [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (AMD).]

5. Minimum number manufactured. The Secretary of State shall manufacture a minimum of 2,000 recognition license plates for each recognition license plate authorized under this section. [PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §8 (AFF).]

6. Design approval. A sponsor must submit a proposed design for a recognition license plate for approval or modification by the Secretary of State. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters shall review the final design for a recognition license plate prior to the manufacture of the plate. [PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §8 (AFF).]

7. Duplicate plates. The Secretary of State shall issue a recognition license plate in a 3-number and 3-letter combination sequence. Vanity plates may not duplicate vanity plates issued in another class of plate. [PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 652, Pt. B, §8 (AFF).]

8. Deadline for Secretary of State approval. The sponsor shall submit to the Secretary of State the names, signatures, payment and proposed design for the recognition license plate by September 1st. The signatures must have been collected within 2 years of submission to the Secretary of State. If the design is approved pursuant to subsection 6 , the Secretary of State shall submit proposed legislation seeking authorization of the recognition license plate to the following regular session of the Legislature. [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (AMD).]

9. Weight limit. A recognition license plate may not be issued for an automobile or pickup truck that weighs more than 10,000 pounds. [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (AMD).]

10. Limit on authorization. The Secretary of State shall retire and cease to issue any plate authorized after January 1, 2007: A. When the number of sets of the plate issued falls below 4,000 for more than one year. [PL 2019, c. 397, §9 (AMD).] B. [PL 2019, c. 397, §9 (RP).] [PL 2019, c. 397, §9 (AMD).]

11. Additional versions or classes of the recognition plate. All requirements set forth in this section must be followed for each additional class or version of a recognition plate. [PL 2007, c. 383, §6 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1809 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1809
29-A §1809. Savings clause
Status: in_force

This subchapter is in addition to and does not limit or replace other rights or procedures provided by statute or common law. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2354-D — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 21 / Section 2354-D
29-A §2354-D. Allow certain commercial motor vehicles that exceed weight limits and vehicle dimension standards to operate on a designated route of travel
Status: in_force

1. Commissioner may allow certain commercial motor vehicles that exceed weight limits and vehicle dimension standards. The Commissioner of Transportation, in consultation with the Department of Public Safety and the Department of the Secretary of State, may allow a specified commercial motor vehicle configuration with any number of axles that would otherwise be in violation of the provisions in this chapter regarding operational weight limits, gross vehicle weights, axle weights, tire weights or vehicle dimensions to operate on a specified route of travel over public ways if: A. The department receives a proposal from an entity seeking an allowance to operate a specified commercial motor vehicle configuration pursuant to this subsection on a specified route of travel; [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).] B. The chief engineer of the department, as appointed in accordance with Title 23, section 201 , finds the proposed configuration and weight can be safely operated on the proposed route of travel. In making this finding, the chief engineer may consider available manufacturer's ratings for gross vehicle weight, axle capacity, brake systems and other components. The chief engineer may place such restrictions on operations as are necessary to ensure public safety; [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).] C. The chief engineer of the department, as appointed in accordance with Title 23, section 201 , finds that the public ways and bridge infrastructure affected by the proposed route of travel can withstand, or can be improved and maintained to withstand, the proposed configuration and weight. The improvements necessary may include initial capital improvements and future maintenance or capital improvements; and [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).] D. The department receives satisfactory assurance that at least 50% of the cost of any infrastructure assessment and at least 50% of the cost for any infrastructure improvements determined necessary pursuant to paragraph C will be provided by the entity seeking the allowance. The department may provide the balance of funding, if feasible. [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 119, §3 (AMD).]

2. Rules. The Commissioner of Transportation, in consultation with the Department of Public Safety and the Department of the Secretary of State, shall adopt rules to implement this section. The rules must include appropriate mechanisms to ensure that, prior to giving an allowance to operate a commercial motor vehicle pursuant to this section on a route of travel that includes a public way that traverses a municipality, unorganized or deorganized area in a county or a reservation or trust land of a federally recognized Indian tribe in this State, appropriate input from or approval of the municipality, county or federally recognized Indian tribe is obtained. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).]

3. Report. Beginning February 1, 2017, and biennially thereafter, the Commissioner of Transportation shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters on the implementation of this section. The report must include the number of proposals received by the department, including how many were authorized; the reasons any proposals were not authorized or did not move forward; the costs incurred by the department; the amount of funds provided by relevant entities or funding sources other than the department; any infrastructure improvements made to accommodate proposals; the designated routes of travel allowed; the allowed configurations on these designated routes; and the gross vehicle weights allowed. [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).]

4. Commissioner may revoke privileges of operation. The Commissioner of Transportation may revoke the privileges of operation under this section of a commercial motor vehicle and the associated entity that sought the allowance under this section for cause, including repeatedly exceeding allowed gross vehicle weight limits or operating outside the allowed designated route of travel. Revocation by the commissioner is considered a final agency action. [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).]

5. Exclusion. Nothing contained in this section applies to the Interstate Highway System as defined in the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956. [PL 2013, c. 565, §2 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1806 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1806
29-A §1806. Fee prohibited
Status: in_force

A repair facility may not, directly or indirectly, charge a fee for performing an obligation or for exercising a right under this subchapter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1653 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1653
29-A §1653. Allowing impaired operator
Status: in_force

1. Liability. An owner or person having control of a motor vehicle who, having knowledge or reason to know that a person is under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs or has an alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or 210 liters of breath, permits that person to operate that motor vehicle is jointly and severally liable with that person for damages caused by the negligence of the person. [PL 2009, c. 447, §31 (AMD).]

2. Not exclusive. This section does not limit and does not diminish any cause of action or right of recovery that is or may become available under the common law. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 160 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 3 / Section 160
29-A §160. Mobile motor vehicle services
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall establish and operate a program to provide mobile services. [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).]

1. Populations served. The program under this section must provide mobile services: A. In rural areas where members of the public are required to travel an inconvenient distance to reach offices that can provide services under this section; and [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).] B. To individuals who are unhoused, immigrants or refugees. [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).]

2. Services. The services under this section must include, to the maximum extent feasible: A. Vehicle registration pursuant to chapter 5, subchapter 1 ; and [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).] B. Renewal or replacement of a driver's license or nondriver identification card under chapter 11 . [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 418, §1 (NEW).]

Revisor's Note: §160. Motor vehicle services (As enacted by PL 2023, c. 419, §1 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 29-A, SECTION 161)
29-A M.R.S. § 1810 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1810
29-A §1810. Right to repair
Status: in_force

1. Access to diagnostic systems. Access to the vehicle on-board diagnostic systems of all motor vehicles, including commercial motor vehicles and heavy duty vehicles having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds, must be standardized and made accessible to owners and independent repair facilities and the access may not require authorization by the manufacturer, directly or indirectly, unless that authorization is standardized across all makes and models of motor vehicles sold in this State and is administered by the independent entity described in subsection 2. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

2. Independent entity. The Attorney General shall designate an independent entity not controlled by one or more motor vehicle manufacturers to establish and administer access to vehicle-generated data that is available through the on-board diagnostic system or that is transmitted by the standardized access platform authorized under this section. The independent entity must consist of one representative each from a cross section of industry trade groups including but not limited to organizations representing motor vehicle manufacturers, aftermarket parts manufacturers, aftermarket parts distributors and retailers, independent motor vehicle service providers and new car dealers. The independent entity shall manage cyber-secure access to motor vehicle-generated data, including ensuring on an ongoing basis that access to the on-board diagnostic system and standardized access platform is secure based on all applicable United States and international standards. The independent entity shall: A. Identify and adopt relevant standards for implementation of this section and relevant provisions for accreditation and certification of organizations and for a system for monitoring policy compliance; [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] B. Monitor and develop policies for the evolving use and availability of data generated by the operations of motor vehicles; and [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] C. Create policies for compliance with relevant laws, regulations, standards, technologies and best practices related to access to motor vehicle data. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

3. Model year 2002 motor vehicles. For model year 2002 motor vehicles, including commercial motor vehicles and heavy duty vehicles having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds, each manufacturer of motor vehicles sold in this State shall make available for purchase under fair and reasonable terms by owners and independent repair facilities all diagnostic repair tools, parts, software and components incorporating the same diagnostic, functional repair and wireless capabilities that the manufacturer makes available to its authorized repair shops. Each manufacturer shall: A. Provide diagnostic repair information to each aftermarket scan tool company and each 3rd-party service information provider with whom the manufacturer has appropriate licensing, contractual or confidentiality agreements for the sole purpose of building aftermarket diagnostic tools and 3rd-party service information publications and systems. Once a manufacturer makes information available pursuant to this paragraph, the manufacturer is considered to have satisfied its obligations under this paragraph and thereafter is not responsible for the content and functionality of aftermarket diagnostic tools or service information systems; [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] B. Make available for purchase by owners of motor vehicles and by independent repair facilities the same diagnostic and repair information, including repair technical updates, that the manufacturer makes available to its authorized repair shops through the manufacturer's Internet-based diagnostic and repair information system; and [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] C. Provide access to the manufacturer's diagnostic and repair information system for purchase by owners of motor vehicles and independent repair facilities on a daily, monthly and yearly subscription basis and upon fair and reasonable terms. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] All parts, tools, software and other components necessary to complete a full repair of the vehicle, as referenced in this subsection, must be included and provided to owners of motor vehicles and authorized independent repair shops. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

4. Model year 2002-2017 motor vehicles. For model year 2002-2017 motor vehicles, including commercial motor vehicles and heavy duty vehicles having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds, access to a vehicle's on-board diagnostic and repair information system must be the same for an owner or an independent repair facility as that provided to a new vehicle dealer. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

5. Model year 2018 and later motor vehicles. For model year 2018 and later motor vehicles, including commercial motor vehicles and heavy duty vehicles having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds, access to the on-board diagnostic and repair information system must be available through use of an off-the-shelf personal computer with sufficient memory, processor speed, connectivity and other capabilities as specified by the vehicle manufacturer and: A. A nonproprietary vehicle interface device that complies with SAE International standard J2534, SAE International standard J1939, commonly referred to as SAE J2534 and SAE J1939, the International Organization for Standardization standard 22900, commonly referred to as ISO 22900, or any successor to SAE J2534, SAE J1939 or ISO 22900 as may be accepted or published by SAE International or the International Organization for Standardization, as appropriate; [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] B. An on-board diagnostic and repair information system integrated into and entirely self-contained within the vehicle, including, but not limited to, service information systems integrated into an on-board display; and [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] C. A system that provides direct access to on-board diagnostic and repair information through a nonproprietary vehicle interface, such as ethernet, universal serial bus or digital versatile disc. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).] Each manufacturer shall provide access to the same on-board diagnostic and repair information available to their dealers, including technical updates to such on-board systems, through such nonproprietary interfaces as referenced in this subsection. All parts, tools, software and other components necessary to complete a full repair of a vehicle, as referenced in this subsection, must be included and provided to motor vehicle owners and authorized independent repair shops. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

6. Required equipment. Not later than one year from the effective date of this section, a manufacturer of motor vehicles sold in this State, including commercial motor vehicles and heavy duty vehicles having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 14,000 pounds, that uses a telematics system is required to equip vehicles sold in this State with an inter-operable, standardized and owner-authorized access platform across all of the manufacturer's makes and models. The platform must be capable of securely communicating all mechanical data emanating directly from the motor vehicle via direct data connection to the platform. The platform must be directly accessible by the motor vehicle owner through a mobile-based application and, upon the authorization of the owner, all mechanical data must be directly accessible by an independent repair facility or a licensed dealer as described in section 851, subsections 2 and 9, limited to the time to complete the repair or for a period of time agreed to by the motor vehicle owner for the purposes of maintaining, diagnosing and repairing the motor vehicle. Access must include the ability to send commands to in-vehicle components if needed for purposes of maintenance, diagnostics and repair. All parts, tools, software and other components necessary to complete a full repair of the vehicle, as referenced in this subsection, must be included and provided to motor vehicle owners and authorized independent repair shops. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

7. Exclusions. Manufacturers of motor vehicles sold in the United States may exclude diagnostic, service and repair information necessary to reset an immobilizer system or security-related electronic modules from information provided to motor vehicle owners and independent repair facilities. If excluded under this subsection, the information necessary to reset an immobilizer system or security-related electronic modules must be made available to motor vehicle owners and independent repair facilities through the secure data release model system as used on the effective date of this section by the National Automotive Service Task Force or other known, reliable and accepted systems. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]

8. Enforcement. If the independent entity described by subsection 2 has reason to believe that a manufacturer has violated any provision of this section, the independent entity shall notify the Attorney General. The Attorney General shall promptly institute any actions or proceedings the Attorney General considers appropriate. The independent entity, through the Attorney General, may apply to the Superior Court of any county of the State to enforce any lawful order made or action taken by the independent entity pursuant to this section. A motor vehicle owner or independent repair facility authorized by an owner who has been denied access to mechanical data in violation of this section may initiate a civil action seeking any remedies under law. Each denial of access is compensable by an award of treble damages or $10,000, whichever amount is greater. [IB 2023, c. 3, §3 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1412 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1412
29-A §1412. Military service designation for active military personnel and veterans
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall, at the request of an eligible applicant, issue a driver's license or nondriver identification card to that applicant with a military service designation that identifies the applicant as a person actively serving in the United States Armed Forces or as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. [PL 2011, c. 356, §20 (NEW).]

1. Eligibility. In order to make a determination of eligibility for a military service designation under this section, the bureau shall determine, based on an examination of an applicant's military identification, whether the following criteria are met: A. The applicant is serving in the United States Armed Forces as defined in 10 United States Code, Section 101(a)(4) (2011); or [PL 2011, c. 356, §20 (NEW).] B. The applicant has served in the United States Armed Forces as defined in 10 United States Code, Section 101(a)(4) (2011) and has been honorably discharged. To receive the designation under this paragraph, the applicant must provide an Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge, DD Form 214, or a 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. [PL 2011, c. 356, §20 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 356, §20 (NEW).]

2. Renewal. A license or nondriver identification card with a military service designation issued in accordance with subsection 1, paragraph A may be renewed upon verification of continuing eligibility. [PL 2011, c. 356, §20 (NEW).]

3. Design and location. The Secretary of State shall determine the design and location on the license and nondriver identification card for the military service designation under this section. [PL 2011, c. 356, §20 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1112 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 1112
29-A §1112. Identification number
Status: in_force

A recycler may not possess or exercise control over a vehicle or vehicle part that has had the vehicle identification number removed. It is not a defense that the recycler did not know that the vehicle identification number had been removed. Violation of this section 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. § 1859 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1859
29-A §1859. Removal of vehicle
Status: in_force

Removal of a vehicle described in section 1851 or of any part or accessory from the vehicle without the written consent of the person in charge or the owner of the premises or property where the vehicle is located is a traffic infraction. This section applies to all persons, including the owner of the vehicle. [PL 2023, c. 362, §2 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 362, §4 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2091 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2091
29-A §2091. Control of vehicular traffic at emergency scenes
Status: in_force

1. Definition. For the purposes of this section, "public safety traffic flagger" means a municipal firefighter, a volunteer firefighter or a member of an emergency medical service licensed by the Department of Public Safety, Maine Emergency Medical Services who is trained in accordance with subsection 2 and authorized by the chief official of the fire department or emergency medical service to control vehicular traffic or a nonsworn member of a law enforcement agency who is trained in accordance with subsection 2 and authorized by the chief official of the law enforcement agency. [PL 2021, c. 85, §1 (AMD).]

2. Training. All public safety traffic flaggers must receive training approved by the Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Standards in controlling traffic on public ways. Training may consist of video instruction, instruction in a classroom setting, distribution of informational handbooks or other educational materials or other training activities. [PL 2005, c. 167, §1 (NEW).]

3. Authority. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Title, a public safety traffic flagger shall wear a reflective traffic vest or protective clothing as defined by Title 26, section 2103, subsection 3 and has the authority to control vehicular traffic on a public way at or to reroute vehicular traffic around a public safety emergency, including a medical emergency, motor vehicle accident, fire, hazardous materials incident or other natural or human-made disaster or a training operation, unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer. [RR 2021, c. 2, Pt. B, §223 (COR).]

4. Obeying public safety traffic flagger. An operator of a motor vehicle on a public way shall obey a request or signal of a person who is reasonably identifiable as a public safety traffic flagger. A violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction. [PL 2005, c. 167, §1 (NEW).]

5. Registered owner's liability. A person who is a registered owner of a vehicle at the time that vehicle is involved in a violation of subsection 4 commits a traffic infraction. For the purposes of this subsection, "registered owner" includes a person issued a dealer or transporter registration plate. A. A public safety traffic flagger who observes a violation of subsection 4 may report the violation to a law enforcement officer. If a report is made, the public safety traffic flagger 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 of the registered owner's motor vehicle at the time of the incident. [PL 2005, c. 167, §1 (NEW).] 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. 167, §1 (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. 167, §1 (NEW).] D. The following are defenses to a violation of this subsection. (1) If a person other than the registered owner is operating the vehicle at the time of the violation of subsection 4 and is convicted of that violation, 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 , the lessee, 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, that person, not the dealer or transporter, may be charged under this subsection. (4) If a report that the vehicle was stolen is provided to a law enforcement officer or agency before the violation occurs or within a reasonable time after the violation occurs and an investigation determines the vehicle was stolen, the registered owner may not be charged under this subsection. [PL 2005, c. 167, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 167, §1 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 560 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 560
29-A §560. Certificate of Chief of State Police; Secretary of State
Status: in_force

The certificate of the Chief of the State Police must be received in any court of law in this State as prima facie evidence of the making or issuing by the Bureau of State Police of any rule authorized by this chapter. The certificate of the Secretary of State or the Secretary of State's deputy, under seal of the State, must be received in any court of law in this State or in any proceeding pursuant to this chapter as prima facie evidence of the issuance, suspension, revocation or restoration of any driver's license, or the issuance, suspension, annulment or restoration of any motor vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2525 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2525
29-A §2525. Drug impairment assessment
Status: in_force

1. Submission to test required. If a drug recognition expert has probable cause to believe that a person is under the influence of a specific category of drug, a combination of specific categories of drugs or a combination of alcohol and one or more specific categories of drugs, that person must submit to a blood or urine test selected by the drug recognition expert to confirm that person's category of drug use and determine the presence of the drug. [PL 2011, c. 335, §14 (AMD).]

2. Admissibility of evidence. If a law enforcement officer certified as a drug recognition expert by the Maine Criminal Justice Academy conducts a drug impairment assessment, the officer's testimony about that assessment is admissible in court as evidence of operating under the influence of intoxicants. Test results showing a confirmed positive drug or metabolite in the blood or urine are admissible as evidence of operating under the influence of intoxicants. Failure to comply with any provision of this section does not, by itself, result in the exclusion of evidence of test results, unless the evidence is determined to be not sufficiently reliable. [PL 2011, c. 335, §14 (AMD).]

3. Payment for tests. A person authorized to take specimens of blood at the direction of a law enforcement officer or to perform tests on specimens of blood or breath must be paid from the Highway Fund. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Repeal. [PL 1995, c. 145, §2 (RP).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2079 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2079
29-A §2079. Unnecessary noise
Status: in_force

Braking or acceleration may not be unnecessarily made so as to cause a harsh and objectionable noise. [PL 2013, c. 588, Pt. A, §38 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1671 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1671
29-A §1671. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]

1. Digital network. "Digital network" has the same meaning as in Title 24‑A, section 7302, subsection 1 . [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]

2. Personal vehicle. "Personal vehicle" has the same meaning as in Title 24‑A, section 7302, subsection 2 . [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]

3. Prearranged ride. "Prearranged ride" has the same meaning as in Title 24‑A, section 7302, subsection 3 . [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]

4. Transportation network company. "Transportation network company" has the same meaning as in Title 24‑A, section 7302, subsection 4 . [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]

5. Transportation network company driver; driver. "Transportation network company driver" or "driver" has the same meaning as in Title 24‑A, section 7302, subsection 5 . [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]

6. Transportation network company rider; rider. "Transportation network company rider" or "rider" has the same meaning as in Title 24‑A, section 7302, subsection 6 . [PL 2015, c. 279, §2 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1854 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1854
29-A §1854. Notification of vehicle owner
Status: in_force

1. Notification in writing. Except as provided in subsection 1‑A , the owner of the premises where a vehicle described in section 1851 is located or the owner's agent shall notify the Secretary of State that the owner or the owner's agent is in possession of that vehicle. The notification must be in writing and on a form provided by the Secretary of State. [PL 2017, c. 240, §1 (AMD).]

1-A. Notification in writing; auto repair and storage facilities. The owner of the premises where a vehicle described in section 1851, subsection 5 or 7 is stored or the owner's agent shall notify the Secretary of State that the owner or the owner's agent is in possession of the vehicle within 14 days after the earliest date on which the vehicle owner is responsible for any unpaid charges for authorized repair or for storage and any related towing expenses incurred by the owner or the owner's agent. The notification must be in writing and on a form provided by the Secretary of State. [PL 2017, c. 240, §2 (NEW).]

1-B. Notification to lienholder. The owner of the premises where a vehicle described in section 1851, subsection 5 or 7 is stored or the owner's agent shall determine if the title is issued by the Secretary of State under section 657 . If the title is issued by the Secretary of State under section 657 , the owner of the premises or the owner’s agent shall determine if a lienholder is identified on the title of the vehicle. If a lienholder is identified on the title of the vehicle, the owner of the premises or the owner’s agent shall notify the lienholder that the owner or the owner's agent is in possession of the vehicle within 14 days after the earliest date on which the lienholder is responsible for any unpaid charges for authorized repair or for storage and any related towing expenses incurred by the owner or the owner's agent. [PL 2021, c. 515, §1 (NEW).]

2. Contents of notification. A notification under subsection 1 or 1‑A must include the vehicle's make, model, year, body type, vehicle identification number and any registration and plates on the vehicle. This notification also must include the date the vehicle came into possession of the owner, the owner's agent or person in charge of the premises where the vehicle is located, under what circumstances the vehicle came into that person's possession and whether the vehicle is salvage. [PL 2021, c. 515, §1 (AMD).]

3. Response. On receipt of a notification under subsection 1 or 1‑A , the Secretary of State shall inform the vehicle owner and lienholder, if any, by regular mail that the vehicle is being claimed under the abandoned vehicle law. The notice to the vehicle owner and lienholder, if any, must identify the vehicle by the year, make, model and vehicle identification number, give the name and address of the party claiming ownership, state the charges against the vehicle that the owner and lienholder, if any, must pay to retrieve the vehicle, and the date that the title or letter of ownership will pass to the new owner. If the party is claiming ownership of the vehicle pursuant to section 603, subsection 6 , the notice must inform the vehicle owner and lienholder that the owner must pay to the Secretary of State the fee required in section 603 to transfer the title. A copy of this letter must be provided to the person claiming ownership. [PL 2021, c. 515, §1 (AMD).]

4. Publication. If the Secretary of State finds no record of a vehicle with respect to which the Secretary of State is notified under subsection 1 or 1‑A , the owner of the premises where the vehicle is located shall publish a notice once in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the premises is located. That notice must clearly: A. Describe the vehicle by the year, make, model and vehicle identification number; [PL 1999, c. 137, §1 (AMD).] B. State that if the owner of the vehicle or lienholder has not properly retrieved it and paid all reasonable charges for its towing, storage and repair within 14 days from the publication, ownership of the vehicle passes to the owner of the premises where the vehicle is located; and [PL 2011, c. 46, §2 (AMD).] C. State how the owner of the premises may be contacted. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2021, c. 515, §1 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 201 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 3 / Section 201
29-A §201. Municipal officials as agents
Status: in_force

1. Appointment of agents by Secretary of State; scope of authority. With the approval of the municipal officers, the Secretary of State may appoint a municipal tax collector, or other persons designated by a municipality, to collect excise taxes on vehicles and to receive applications for new registrations and renewals of registrations of motor vehicles, trailers and semitrailers. The Secretary of State may authorize a municipal agent to issue new registrations and renewals of registrations or may limit the agent's authority to the issuance of renewals only. [PL 2023, c. 271, §1 (AMD).]

2. Issuance of registrations or renewals. An agent appointed in accordance with subsection 1 may: A. Issue renewals of registration for school buses operated by school administrative units or private contractors; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Issue registration renewals for all motor vehicles and trailers, except for those required to be registered directly through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles as designated by the Secretary of State; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. If authorized to issue registrations and renewals of registrations, issue: (1) Registrations for pickup trucks registered for 10,000 pounds or less gross vehicular weight, automobiles, trailers, semitrailers and farm tractors; and (2) Registrations for trucks of greater gross weight than provided in subparagraph (1), after the agent has satisfactorily participated in special training as prescribed by the Secretary of State. [PL 2015, c. 473, §3 (AMD).] [PL 2015, c. 473, §3 (AMD).]

3. Service fees. Municipal agents appointed in accordance with subsection 1 may charge service fees for registrations and renewals of registrations as follows. A. A municipal agent may charge an applicant a fee not to exceed $5 over the required fee for each renewal of a registration issued and a fee not to exceed $6 over the required fee for each new registration issued. [PL 2023, c. 271, §2 (AMD).] B. In a municipality in which agents are authorized to issue registrations for applicants from another municipality or from an unorganized territory, the agent may charge those applicants $1 in addition to the fees authorized by this subsection for each registration or renewal. [PL 2023, c. 271, §2 (AMD).] C. A municipal agent authorized to issue temporary registration permits may charge an applicant a fee not to exceed $1 over the required permit fee. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. A municipal agent authorized to process permits and decals for vehicles with gross vehicle weight in excess of 6,000 pounds may charge a fee not to exceed $1 over the required fee for each permit or decal issued. [PL 2017, c. 475, Pt. A, §46 (AMD).] E. A municipal agent may charge a fee not to exceed $1 over the required fee for the issuance of a duplicate registration. [PL 2023, c. 271, §2 (AMD).] F. [PL 2017, c. 229, §10 (RP).] G. A municipal agent may charge an applicant a fee not to exceed $2 over the required fee when an applicant is requesting issuance of a set of plates designated as specialty license plates by the Secretary of State to replace previously issued plates. [PL 2023, c. 271, §2 (AMD).] H. The Secretary of State may authorize municipal agents to charge a fee not to exceed $1 over the required fee for other transactions that the municipal agent carries out on behalf of the Secretary of State and that are not listed in this subsection. [PL 2005, c. 573, §2 (NEW).] The municipality may retain all service fees authorized in this subsection. [PL 2023, c. 271, §2 (AMD).]

4. Training. The Secretary of State shall provide necessary training for municipal agents. A municipal agent may not be appointed for specific duties unless the agent has successfully completed the appropriate training program. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Duration of appointment; revocation of appointment. Unless revoked, the appointment of an agent continues as long as the agent holds that office or employment. An appointment may be revoked: A. If the municipal officers that approved the appointment request that it be revoked; or [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. For cause 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).]

6. Rules. The Secretary of State may adopt rules to implement the provisions of this section. The rules may include requirements for agent training, accounting standards, inventory control processes and the collection and transmission of data and funds between agents and the bureau. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2021, c. 216, §9 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 468 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 468
29-A §468. Specialty license plate
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State may not issue a specialty license plate until the sponsor has met all of the requirements of this section and the proposed specialty license plate legislation as required in subsection 7 is reviewed by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters and approved by the Legislature. For the purposes of this subchapter, "specialty license plate" means a specially designed registration plate that may be used in place of the regular plate and registration for fundraising purposes. The Secretary of State shall administer a specialty license plate in accordance with the following provisions. [PL 2017, c. 327, §13 (AMD).]

1. Sponsor. A person must register with the Secretary of State and receive approval from the Secretary of State as the sponsor of a specialty license plate. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

1-A. Sponsor affiliation. A sponsor who registers with the Secretary of State after June 30, 2025 must be affiliated with a state department that is responsible for oversight of the collection and distribution of the contributions collected under subsection 2, paragraph B and not returned pursuant to subsection 2, paragraph C , which, except as provided by subsection 2 , must be deposited in an other special revenue account to provide essential services to the public. To obtain preliminary approval in subsection 1‑B , the sponsor shall provide documentation to the Secretary of State identifying the state department providing oversight and that department shall submit in writing on departmental letterhead to the Secretary of State that it agrees to oversee the collection and distribution of the contributions. [PL 2023, c. 634, §5 (AMD).]

1-B. Plate design approval. This subsection governs the plate design approval process. A. A sponsor shall submit the documentation under subsection 1‑A to the Secretary of State and obtain from the Secretary of State preliminary approval of the proposed specialty license plate design before proceeding with subsection 2 . [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] B. Before preliminarily approving the proposed specialty license plate design, the Secretary of State shall obtain the services of a professional designer, paid by the sponsor, to format the plate to meet the Secretary of State's design requirements and standards. The Secretary of State shall consult with the Maine State Police and the Maine Turnpike Authority to evaluate the human and electronic readability of the plate design. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] C. Before manufacturing the specialty license plate, the Secretary of State shall provide the final design for a specialty license plate to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters for review. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

2. Names, signatures and payment. The Secretary of State may not manufacture an authorized specialty license plate unless the sponsor: A. Provides to the Secretary of State a list with 4,000 names, dated signatures and current plate numbers of supporters who have physically signed a statement on paper declaring they intend to purchase and display the specialty license plate; [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] B. Collects from each supporter who signs the statement an amount of $25 for each set of plates and provides to the Secretary of State the sum of these contributions in the amount of $100,000, which is nonrefundable; and [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] C. Informs each supporter that the $25 contribution will be returned to the supporter within 90 days if the requirements in subsection 7 are not met within one year. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] The Secretary of State shall deposit the $100,000 provided under paragraph B in the Specialty License Plate Fund established under section 469 . [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

3. Fee. [PL 2007, c. 383, §5 (RP).]

3-A. Credit voucher. The Secretary of State shall provide a voucher to each of the 4,000 supporters that contributed $25. The credit voucher may be used only to obtain one set of specialty license plates. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

3-B. Registration fee. The fee for the specialty license plate is in addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee required by section 501 and the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 . [PL 2007, c. 383, §5 (NEW).]

3-C. Fee; credit to funds. This subsection governs the funding distribution for specialty license plates approved for issuance after June 30, 2024. In addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee prescribed by law for the particular class of vehicle registered, the initial fee for the specialty license plates is $20, which must be deposited with the Treasurer of State and credited as follows: A. Ten dollars to the other special revenue account under subsection 1‑A for purposes specified in the account description; [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] B. Nine dollars to the Highway Fund for administrative and production costs; and [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] C. One dollar to the Specialty License Plate Fund established under section 469 . [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

3-D. Renewal fee. This subsection governs the funding distribution for renewals of specialty license plates after June 30, 2024. In addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee prescribed by law for the particular class of vehicle registered, the annual renewal fee for the specialty license plates is $15, which must be deposited with the Treasurer of State and credited as follows: A. Ten dollars to the other special revenue account under subsection 1‑A for purposes specified in the account description; [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] B. Four dollars to the Highway Fund for administrative and production costs; and [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] C. One dollar to the Specialty License Plate Fund established under section 469 . [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

4. Minimum number manufactured. The Secretary of State shall manufacture a minimum of 4,000 specialty license plates for each specialty license plate authorized under this section. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

5. Design approval. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (RP); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

6. Numbering, lettering and duplicate plates. The Secretary of State shall issue a specialty license plate in a 3-number and 3-letter combination sequence. Plate numbers may not duplicate plates issued in another class of plate. Vanity plates may not duplicate vanity plates issued in another class of plate. This subsection does not apply to a person that holds a specialty license plate with duplicate numbers in another class of plate or a duplicate vanity plate in another class of plate issued in accordance with section 453 prior to July 1, 2023, as long as the person maintains a valid registration with that plate. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

7. Deadline for Secretary of State approval. The sponsor must submit to the Secretary of State the names, signatures, payment and proposed design for the specialty license plate by September 1st. The signatures must have been collected in-person within one year of submission to the Secretary of State. Electronically collected signatures may not be accepted. If the requirements of subsections 1 , 1‑A , 1‑B and 2 are met, the Secretary of State shall submit proposed legislation seeking authorization of the specialty license plate to the following regular session of the Legislature. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

8. Weight limit. Except as provided under section 456‑F, subsection 7, paragraph B , a specialty license plate under this subchapter may be issued for an automobile or truck that does not exceed 26,000 pounds registered weight. After June 30, 2024, an automobile or truck that is issued a specialty license plate may not exceed 10,000 pounds registered weight. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

9. Limit on authorization. The Secretary of State shall manage the number of approved specialty license plates in accordance with this subsection. A. [PL 2017, c. 327, §15 (RP).] B. [PL 2017, c. 327, §15 (RP).] C. When a specialty license plate falls to 4,500 registrations, the Secretary of State shall notify the sponsor and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters of the Secretary of State's intent to retire and cease to issue the specialty license plate if the number of registrations falls below 4,000 for one year. The Secretary of State shall provide the sponsor with monthly updates. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] D. The Secretary of State shall retire, cease to issue and replace upon renewal a specialty license plate if the number of registrations falls below 4,000 for more than one year. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] E. The Secretary of State shall retire, cease to issue and replace upon renewal a specialty license plate if the entity receiving a distribution of the contributions ceases to operate or does not comply with this section. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] F. When the total number of approved specialty license plates reaches 15, the Secretary of State may not approve a specialty license plate sponsor under subsection 1 . The sponsor's name and affiliated state department identified pursuant to subsection 1‑A must be added to a waiting list in the order of the received requests. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

10. Additional versions or classes of the specialty license plate. The Secretary of State may not issue a specialty license plate in a class other than passenger plates. A. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (RP); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] B. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (RP); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] C. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (RP); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).] Commercial plates issued prior to July 1, 2023 under sections 455 and 456‑F are exempt from this subsection. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]

11. Affiliated state department. A sponsor shall provide to the affiliated state department identified pursuant to subsection 1‑A an annual independent audit of the other special revenue account. The affiliated state department shall provide to the Secretary of State an annual audit report and an accounting of the contributions received and distributed during that reporting period. The Secretary of State shall provide the report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters. [PL 2023, c. 271, §6 (NEW); PL 2023, c. 271, §8 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 851 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 9 / Section 851
29-A §851. 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. Business location. "Business location" means a permanent enclosed building in which the business involving transporter or loaner licenses may be lawfully carried on in accordance with the terms of all applicable building codes and zoning and other land use regulatory ordinances. This location must be located within the State, be easily accessible and open to the public at all reasonable times, have an office with suitable equipment for the business conducted and have an exterior sign indicating the business name. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Dealer. "Dealer" means a person engaged in the business of buying, selling, exchanging or offering to negotiate, negotiating or advertising the sale of a vehicle or industrial equipment and who has: A. An established place of business for those purposes in this State; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A current dealer license issued by the Secretary of State. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] "Dealer" does not include the State when selling state-owned vehicles. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2-A. Electronic temporary registration plate program. "Electronic temporary registration plate program" means an electronic program that permits the creation of a temporary registration plate and the maintenance of temporary registration plate information. [PL 2025, c. 119, §6 (NEW).]

3. Equipment dealer. "Equipment dealer" means a dealer whose primary business is the buying or selling of new or used industrial equipment or both, or farm equipment, or both. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Established place of business. "Established place of business" means a permanent, enclosed building: A. Located within the State; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Easily accessible and open to the public at all reasonable times; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. With an improved display area of not less than 3,500 square feet in or immediately adjoining it; [PL 2023, c. 571, §1 (AMD).] D. In which the business of a dealer, including the display and repair of motor vehicles, may be lawfully carried on in accordance with building codes and zoning or land-use ordinances; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. In which the public may contact the dealer at all reasonable times; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. In which is kept and maintained the equipment, books, records and files necessary to conduct the business; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] G. Displaying an exterior sign, permanently affixed to the land or building, that indicates the business name. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2023, c. 571, §1 (AMD).]

4-A. Full-time employee. "Full-time employee" means any person who is employed and works at least 30 hours per week. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Full-time sales representative. "Full-time sales representative" means an employee who is employed by a dealer who, under any form of contract, sells, offers for sale or attempts to negotiate a sale or exchange of an interest in a vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Immediate family. "Immediate family" means a spouse or child residing in the same household as the dealer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Light trailer. "Light trailer" means a trailer or semitrailer 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).]

8. Motorcycle dealer. "Motorcycle dealer" means a dealer whose primary business is the buying or selling of new or used motorcycles, or both. [PL 2005, c. 577, §12 (AMD).]

9. New vehicle dealer. "New vehicle dealer" means a dealer whose primary business is the buying and selling of new motor vehicles and who has a franchise from a distributor or manufacturer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

10. Trailer dealer. "Trailer dealer" means a dealer whose primary business is the buying and selling of new or used trailers or semitrailers, or both. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

11. Used car dealer. "Used car dealer" means a dealer whose primary business is the buying and selling of used motor vehicles. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

12. Used motor vehicle. "Used motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that has been registered at least once or is not covered by a manufacturer's new car warranty. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

13. Vehicle auction. "Vehicle auction" means selling a vehicle by bidding at a public or private sale. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

14. Vehicle auction business. "Vehicle auction business" means a business that operates a vehicle auction for gain or compensation. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2601 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2601
29-A §2601. Summons and Complaint
Status: in_force

1. Form of Uniform Summons and Complaint. Every law enforcement agency in this State shall use traffic summonses for civil violations defined in this Title and criminal traffic offenses defined in Title 23, section 1980 or this Title in the form known as the Uniform Summons and Complaint, which must be uniform throughout the State and must be issued in books with summonses in no less than quadruplicate and meeting the requirements of this chapter. The Uniform Summons and Complaint must include, at a minimum, the signature of the officer, a brief description of the alleged offense, the time and place of the alleged offense and the time, place and date the person is to appear in court. The Uniform Summons and Complaint must also include a statement that signing the summons does not constitute an admission or plea of guilty and that refusal to sign after having been ordered to do so by a law enforcement officer is a separate Class E crime. A person to whom a Uniform Summons and Complaint is issued or delivered must give a written promise to appear. The form of the Uniform Summons and Complaint must be approved by the Chief Judge of the District Court prior to its use. [PL 2013, c. 482, §6 (AMD).]

2. Creation of forms. The Commissioner of Public Safety is responsible for creating the forms of Uniform Summons and Complaint, subject to the approval of the forms by the Chief Judge of the District Court. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Form of Violation Summons and Complaint. Every law enforcement agency in this State shall use traffic summonses for traffic infractions in the form known as the Violation Summons and Complaint, which must be uniform throughout the State and must be issued in books with summonses in no less than quadruplicate and meeting the requirements of this chapter. The form must include, at a minimum, the signature of the officer, a brief description of the alleged offense, the time and place of the alleged offense and the date on or before which the person is to file a written answer with the violations bureau. The Violation Summons and Complaint must also include a statement that signing the summons does not constitute an admission or plea of guilty and that refusal to sign after having been ordered to do so by a law enforcement officer is a separate Class E crime. The form of the Violation Summons and Complaint must be approved by the Chief Judge of the District Court prior to its use. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3-A. Electronic Violation Summons and Complaint. Notwithstanding subsection 3 , the Chief Judge of the District Court may approve for use an electronic Violation Summons and Complaint form. The electronic Violation Summons and Complaint form must include, at a minimum, an electronic or digital signature of the officer, a brief description of the alleged offense, the time and place of the alleged offense and the date on or before which the person is to file a written answer with the violations bureau. Personally identifying information that is contained in the electronic citation or the electronic warning database maintained, administered or contributed to by the Department of Public Safety, Bureau of State Police is confidential, except that personally identifying information that is contained in these databases may be shared with another criminal justice agency, delivered to the person under subsection 7 and transmitted to the violations bureau as required by subsection 9 . For the purposes of this subsection, "personally identifying information" means an individual's name, residential and post office mailing addresses, date of birth and driver's license number, a vehicle registration plate number and any other information contained in a data field that may be used to identify a person. [PL 2023, c. 55, §1 (AMD).]

4. Responsibility for issuance and disposition. The summons and complaint forms must be printed and distributed as follows. A. The District Court is responsible for printing all copies of the Violation Summons and Complaint forms. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for printing all copies of the Uniform Summons and Complaint forms and issuing both types to law enforcement agencies or others. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. The chief executive officer of every law enforcement agency or that chief executive officer's designee is responsible for the further issuance of summons and complaint forms to individual law enforcement officers and for the proper disposition of those forms. [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. Illegal disposition. It is unlawful and official misconduct for any law enforcement officer or other officer or public employee to dispose of a Violation Summons and Complaint or a Uniform Summons and Complaint or any portion of either or of the record of the issuance of a Violation Summons and Complaint or a Uniform Summons and Complaint in a manner other than as required under rules adopted pursuant to this section. Any person who solicits or aids in the disposition or attempted disposition of a Violation Summons and Complaint or a Uniform Summons and Complaint or any portion of either in any unauthorized manner commits a Class E crime. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Uniform Summons and Complaint as summons. A Uniform Summons and Complaint, when issued or delivered to a person by a law enforcement officer or served on the person in the manner prescribed by rule of the Supreme Judicial Court, acts as a summons to appear in court on the date and time specified in the summons or to otherwise respond in accordance with law on or before the date and time specified in the summons. Any person who fails to appear in court as directed by the summons or to otherwise respond in accordance with law on or before the date and time specified in the summons commits a Class E crime. Upon the person's failure to appear or respond, the court may issue a warrant of arrest. It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this subsection that the failure to appear or respond resulted from just cause. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Violation Summons and Complaint as summons. The Violation Summons and Complaint, when issued or delivered to a person by a law enforcement officer or served on the person in the manner prescribed by rule of the Supreme Judicial Court, acts as an order to file written answer to the complaint on or before the date specified in the summons. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

8. When a lawful complaint. If the Uniform Summons and Complaint is duly sworn to as required by law and otherwise legally sufficient in respect to the form of a complaint and to charging commission of the offense alleged in the summons to have been committed, then the summons when filed with a court having jurisdiction constitutes a lawful complaint for the purpose of the commencement of any prosecution of a civil violation under this Title or a misdemeanor or Class D or Class E crime under Title 23, section 1980 or this Title. When filed with the violations bureau, the Violation Summons and Complaint is considered a lawful complaint for the purpose of the commencement of a traffic infraction proceeding. [PL 2013, c. 482, §7 (AMD).]

9. Responsibility of law enforcement officer to file summonses and complaints with District Court. A law enforcement officer issuing a Violation Summons and Complaint charging the commission of a traffic infraction shall file the original of the Violation Summons and Complaint with the violations bureau within 5 days of the issuance of the Violation Summons and Complaint. A law enforcement officer issuing a Uniform Summons and Complaint that charges the commission of an offense shall file the original of the Uniform Summons and Complaint with the District Court having jurisdiction over the offense or in such other location as instructed by the Chief Judge of the District Court without undue delay and, in any event, within 5 days after the issuance of the Uniform Summons and Complaint. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

10. Refusal to sign. A person who refuses to sign a Uniform Summons and Complaint or a Violation Summons and Complaint after having been ordered to do so by a law enforcement officer commits a Class E crime. A law enforcement officer may not order a person to sign the Uniform Summons and Complaint for a civil violation unless the civil violation is an offense defined in Title 12 ; Title 28‑A, section 2052 ; or this Title. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the venue for a violation of this subsection is the same judicial division as for the Uniform Summons and Complaint or Violation Summons and Complaint that the person refuses to sign. [PL 1997, c. 653, §12 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2328 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 20 / Section 2328
29-A §2328. Evidence
Status: in_force

In an accident involving a bicycle or a roller skier, the nonuse of a helmet by the operator or passenger is not admissible as evidence in a civil or criminal trial. [PL 2009, c. 484, §15 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1353 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1353
29-A §1353. Motorcycle rider education fees
Status: in_force

1. Instructor fee. The motorcycle rider education instructor license fee is $200 and expires 2 years from the date of issuance. The renewal fee is $200. [PL 2023, c. 634, §25 (AMD).]

2. School license fee. The motorcycle rider education school license fee is $150 and expires December 31st annually. The renewal fee is $150. [PL 2019, c. 352, §3 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 602 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 602
29-A §602. Definitions
Status: reserved

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. Certificate of origin. "Certificate of origin" means the original written instrument or document required to be executed and delivered by the manufacturer or an importer to the manufacturer's or importer's agent or dealer or a person purchasing directly from the manufacturer or importer certifying the origin of the vehicle. For a motor home, "certificate of origin" means both the manufacturer's and the chassis manufacturer's certificates of origin. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]

1-A. Clip. A clip is the portion of a vehicle removed by cutting the front or rear of the frame or unibody the width of the vehicle. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §9 (NEW).]

2. Component part. "Component part" means one of the following parts of a vehicle: A. Engine or motor; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Transmission; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Chassis, front or rear clip, frame or equivalent part; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §7 (AMD).] D. Door; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. Hood; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] F. Tailgate, roof, deck lid or hatchback; [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §7 (AMD).] G. Quarter panel or fender; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] H. Front fork or crankcase of a motorcycle; [PL 2001, c. 361, §17 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] I. Cargo bed, transfer case or sleeper of a truck; or [PL 2001, c. 361, §17 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] J. Airbag. [PL 2001, c. 361, §18 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] [PL 2001, c. 361, §§17, 18 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).]

3. Dealer. "Dealer" means a person engaged in the business of buying, selling, exchanging or offering to negotiate, negotiating or advertising the sale of, a vehicle and who has: A. An established place of business for those purposes in this State; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. A current dealer license issued 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).]

4. Dismantled vehicle. "Dismantled vehicle" means a vehicle with a component part removed. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4-A. Electronic lien titling program. "Electronic lien titling program" means a program that permits the creation and exchange of an electronic record for maintaining lien information. [PL 2021, c. 539, §1 (NEW).]

5. Identification number. "Identification number" means the vehicle identification number and any other identifying numbers or letters on a vehicle designated by a manufacturer, the Secretary of State or equivalent authority in another state. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Insurance salvage pool. "Insurance salvage pool" means a person engaged in the business of storing salvage vehicles on behalf of an insurer and disposing of the salvage vehicles through a system of bidding or sales, regardless of whether the insurer or the insurance salvage pool is considered the seller. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Lienholder. "Lienholder" means a person holding a security interest in a vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

8. Owner. "Owner" means a person, other than a lienholder, that has control or title to a vehicle. "Owner" includes, but is not limited to, a person entitled to use and possess a vehicle subject to a security interest in another person, but excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

9. Perfected security interest. "Perfected security interest" means security interest that is valid against 3rd parties generally, subject only to specific statutory exceptions. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

9-A. Permanently affixed. "Permanently affixed" means, with respect to manufactured housing, placed on a foundation or slab or other form of permanent attachment to the site and connected to conventional and necessary utility systems. [PL 2013, c. 125, §2 (NEW).]

10. Rebuild. "Rebuild" means to replace one or more of the following component parts of a vehicle: A. Engine or motor; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] B. Transmission; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] C. Chassis, front or rear clip, frame or equivalent part; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] D. Door; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] E. Hood; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] F. Tailgate, roof, deck lid or hatchback; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] G. Quarter panel or fender; [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] H. Front fork or crankcase of a motorcycle; or [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] I. Cargo bed, transfer case or sleeper of a truck. [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (NEW); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).] [PL 2001, c. 361, §19 (AMD); PL 2001, c. 361, §38 (AFF).]

11. Recycler. "Recycler" means a person engaged in the business of purchasing or acquiring in any manner vehicles or vehicle parts for the purpose of: A. Reselling the vehicle as salvage or scrap; [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (AMD).] B. Rebuilding or repairing salvage vehicles for the purpose of resale; [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (AMD).] C. Selling or storing the vehicle's parts or basic materials; [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (AMD).] D. Permitting the display or storage of salvage vehicles; [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (AMD).] E. Acting as a scrap processor; or [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (AMD).] F. Advertising in any form that an individual or business engages in any of the activities in paragraphs A to E . [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (NEW).] [PL 2021, c. 216, §16 (AMD).]

12. Repair. "Repair" means to remedy structural or other damage without replacing component parts of a vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

13. Salvage vehicle. "Salvage vehicle" means a vehicle that, by reason of its condition or circumstance, is declared a total loss by an insurer or owner or is transferred to a recycler or salvage dealer, or a vehicle for which a certificate of salvage has been issued. [PL 1995, c. 482, Pt. A, §8 (AMD).]

14. Scrap. "Scrap," the verb, means to compress, shred or destroy. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

15. Scrap processor. "Scrap processor" means a person that is engaged in the business of scrapping salvage vehicles for the basic material in them but that is not engaged in the business of selling parts or rebuilding or repairing salvage vehicles. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

16. Security agreement. "Security agreement" means a written agreement that reserves or creates a security interest. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

17. Security interest. "Security interest" means an interest in a vehicle reserved or created by agreement and that secures payment or performance of an obligation, including, but not limited to, the interest of a lessor under a lease intended as security. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

18. State. "State" means a state, territory or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or a province of the Dominion of Canada. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

19. Total loss. "Total loss" means a vehicle that is transferred to an insurer due to damage, destruction or theft, or a vehicle determined by an owner to have no marketable value other than the value of the basic material and parts used in the construction of the vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

20. Vehicle. "Vehicle" means a vehicle, as defined in section 101 , or the body or chassis of any vehicle that is to be dismantled, scrapped or rebuilt. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2092 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2092
29-A §2092. Operation of off-road vehicles
Status: in_force

1. Operation prohibited. Unless the specific type of off-road vehicle is authorized to be operated on a public way by this or any other Title, an off-road vehicle may not be operated on a public way or parking area. [PL 2005, c. 577, §34 (NEW).]

2. Violation. A person who operates an off-road vehicle in violation of subsection 1 commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2005, c. 577, §34 (NEW).]

3. Government vehicles. Vehicles owned and operated by government entities are not subject to the provisions of this section. [PL 2021, c. 216, §46 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 252 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 3 / Section 252
29-A §252. Driver history records and databases
Status: in_force

1. Reports furnished. The Secretary of State shall provide a copy of a record pertaining to convictions, adjudications, accidents, suspensions and revocations of a driver's license for a fee of $5 each for a driving record covering 3 years and $10 each for a driving record covering more than 3 years. Certified copies are an additional $1. A person receiving a report by electronic transmittal shall pay the fee associated with that transmittal. The Secretary of State shall adopt rules to establish a fee schedule and procedures governing electronic transmittal of a record. [PL 2005, c. 433, §4 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 433, §28 (AFF).]

1-A. Databases. The Secretary of State may provide databases of records pertaining to convictions, adjudications, accidents, suspensions and revocations to individuals, businesses and other entities. The Secretary of State shall adopt rules to establish a fee schedule and governing procedures under this subsection. [PL 2003, c. 434, §5 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 434, §37 (AFF).]

2. Fee waived for official requests. There is no fee for requests from other motor vehicle departments, state, county and federal agencies and law enforcement agencies. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2504 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2504
29-A §2504. Conditional or restricted license upon completion of alcohol and drug program
Status: in_force

Following the expiration of the total period of suspension and on receipt of written notice that the person has satisfactorily completed the alcohol and drug program required by Title 5, section 20073-B , the Secretary of State may issue a license subject to the conditions, restrictions or terms that the Secretary of State considers advisable for the safety of the public and the welfare of the operator. [PL 1999, c. 448, §13 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1472 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1472
29-A §1472. Licensing authority
Status: in_force

As used in the compact, the term "licensing authority" with reference to this State, means the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall furnish to the appropriate authorities of any other party state any information or documents reasonably necessary to facilitate the administration of Articles III , IV and V of the compact. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 456-C — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 5 / Section 456-C
29-A §456-C. Sportsman registration plates
Status: in_force

1. Sportsman registration plates. The Secretary of State, upon receiving an application and evidence of payment of the registration fee required by section 501 or section 504 and the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482 , shall issue a registration certificate and a set of sportsman plates to be used in lieu of regular registration plates. These plates must bear identification numbers and letters. Vanity plates may not duplicate vanity plates issued in another class of plate. The Secretary of State shall begin issuing sportsman registration plates by April 1, 2008. Sportsman vanity plates are issued in accordance with this section and section 453 . [PL 2017, c. 327, §6 (AMD).]

2. Initial registration fee. In addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee prescribed by law, the initial contribution for the sportsman registration plate is $20, which must be deposited with the Treasurer of State and credited as follows: A. Fourteen dollars to the Boat Launch Facilities Fund established in Title 12, section 10261 ; [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (NEW).] B. Five dollars to the Highway Fund for administrative and production costs; and [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (NEW).] C. One dollar to the Specialty License Plate Fund established under section 469 . [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (AMD).]

3. Renewal fee. In addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee prescribed by law, the annual renewal contribution for sportsman registration plates is $20, which must be deposited with the Treasurer of State and credited as follows: A. Eighteen dollars credited as follows: (1) Fifty percent to the fish hatchery maintenance fund established in Title 12, section 10252 ; (2) Fifteen percent to the Boat Launch Facilities Fund established in Title 12, section 10261 ; (3) Ten percent to the Maine Endangered and Nongame Wildlife Fund established in Title 12, section 10253 ; and (4) Twenty-five percent to the landowner relations program in Title 12, section 10108, subsection 4‑A ; [PL 2011, c. 576, §7 (AMD).] B. One dollar to the Highway Fund for administrative and production costs; and [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (NEW).] C. One dollar to the Specialty License Plate Fund established under section 469 . [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (NEW).] [PL 2011, c. 576, §7 (AMD).]

4. Issuance. The Secretary of State shall issue a sportsman registration plate in a combination of a number and letter sequence. [PL 2023, c. 271, §3 (AMD).]

5. Design and approval. [PL 2019, c. 397, §5 (RP).]

6. Transfer of fees. On a quarterly basis, the Secretary of State shall transfer the revenue from the issuance and renewal of the sportsman registration plates to the Treasurer of State for deposit and crediting pursuant to subsections 2 and 3 . [PL 2007, c. 703, §6 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2054 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2054
29-A §2054. Emergency and auxiliary lights; sirens; privileges
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Ambulance" means any vehicle designed, constructed and routinely used or intended to be used for the transportation of ill or injured persons and licensed by Maine Emergency Medical Services pursuant to Title 32, chapter 2‑B . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. "Authorized emergency vehicle" means any one of the following vehicles: (1) An ambulance; (2) A Baxter State Park Authority vehicle operated by a Baxter State Park ranger; (3) A Bureau of Marine Patrol vehicle operated by a coastal warden; (4) A Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry vehicle operated by a forest ranger; (5) A Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry vehicle used for forest fire control; (6) A Department of Corrections vehicle used for responding to the escape of or performing the high-security transfer of a prisoner, juvenile client or juvenile detainee or a Department of Corrections vehicle operated by a person who is certified by the Board of Trustees of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy as a law enforcement officer; (7) A Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife vehicle operated by a warden; (8) A Department of Public Safety vehicle operated by a police officer appointed pursuant to Title 25, section 2908 , a state fire investigator or a Maine Drug Enforcement Agency officer; (9) An emergency medical service vehicle; (10) A fire department vehicle; (11) A hazardous material response vehicle, including a vehicle designed to respond to a weapon of mass destruction; (12) A railroad police vehicle; (13) A sheriff's department vehicle; (14) A State Police or municipal police department vehicle; (15) A vehicle operated by a chief of police, a sheriff or a deputy sheriff when authorized by the sheriff; (16) A vehicle operated by a municipal fire inspector, a municipal fire chief, an assistant or deputy chief or a town forest fire warden; (17) A vehicle operated by a qualified deputy sheriff or other qualified individual to perform court security-related functions and services as authorized by the State Court Administrator pursuant to Title 4, section 17, subsection 15 ; (18) A Federal Government vehicle operated by a federal law enforcement officer; (19) A vehicle operated by a municipal rescue chief, deputy chief or assistant chief; (20) An Office of the Attorney General vehicle operated by a detective appointed pursuant to Title 5, section 202 ; (21) A Department of the Secretary of State vehicle operated by a motor vehicle detective; (22) A University of Maine System vehicle operated by a University of Maine System police officer; (23) A life support transport vehicle when parked on a Department of Transportation ferry vessel and being used to transport a person who requires constant medical support to survive; and (24) A municipal vehicle operated by a harbor master appointed by a municipal officer pursuant to Title 38, section 1 or a deputy harbor master appointed pursuant to Title 38, section 2 . [PL 2025, c. 190, §§1-3 (AMD).] C. "Auxiliary light" means a light, other than standard equipment lighting such as headlights, taillights, directional signals, brake lights, clearance lights, parking lights and license plate lights, that is displayed on a vehicle and used to increase the operator's visibility of the road or the visibility of the vehicle to other operators and pedestrians. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. "Emergency light" means an auxiliary light displayed and used on an authorized emergency vehicle to distinguish it and make it recognizable as an authorized emergency vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. "Emergency medical service vehicle" means a vehicle equipped and used to transport emergency medical personnel or equipment to ill or injured persons and authorized by Maine Emergency Medical Services. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E-1. "Fire department vehicle" means a vehicle owned by, registered to and maintained by a governmental agency or political subdivision that is equipped and used primarily for response to a fire or emergency situation. [PL 2007, c. 348, §19 (NEW).] F. "Fire vehicle" means any vehicle listed under paragraph B , subparagraph (5) or (16). [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] G. "Hazardous material response vehicle" means a vehicle equipped for and used in response to reports of emergencies resulting from actual or potential releases, spills or leaks of, or other exposure to, hazardous substances that is authorized by a mutual aid agreement pursuant to Title 37‑B, section 795, subsection 3 and approved by the local emergency planning committee or committees whose jurisdiction includes the area in which the vehicle operates. "Hazardous material response vehicle" includes vehicles used by employees of the division of response services within the Department of Environmental Protection to respond to oil and hazardous materials incidents within the State. [PL 2021, c. 186, §1 (AMD).] H. "Highway maintenance vehicle" means a vehicle used to maintain the highways, including, but not limited to, a plow, grader, sand truck, sweeper and tar truck. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] H-1. "Life support transport vehicle" means a vehicle designated by the Commissioner of Public Safety that is equipped with life-sustaining medical equipment and that is used to transport a person who requires constant medical support to survive. [PL 2019, c. 397, §26 (NEW).] I. "Police vehicle" means any vehicle listed under paragraph B , subparagraph (2), (3), (4), (7), (8), (12), (13), (14), (18), (20) or (21). [PL 2019, c. 397, §27 (AMD).] I-1. "Public service vehicle" means a vehicle used to assist members of the public or law enforcement officers with disabled vehicles or to remove debris from a roadway, a refuse, garbage, compost, recycling or trash business vehicle used to transport refuse, garbage, compost, recycling or trash or a vehicle used to construct, maintain, inspect or repair utility infrastructure, including, but not limited to, electricity, water, sewer, cable, telephone, gas and natural gas infrastructure. "Public service vehicle" includes a wrecker. [PL 2023, c. 68, §1 (AMD).] J. "Rescue vehicle" means any vehicle listed under paragraph B , subparagraph (19). [PL 2005, c. 14, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 190, §§1-3 (AMD).]

2. Authorized lights. Authorized lights are governed as follows. A. Only an ambulance; an emergency medical service vehicle; a fire department vehicle; a police vehicle; a Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry vehicle used for forest fire control; a Department of Corrections vehicle as described in subsection 1, paragraph B , subparagraph (6); a school bus as defined in section 2301, subsection 5 ; and a highway maintenance vehicle may be equipped with a device that provides for alternate flashing of the vehicle's headlights. [PL 2017, c. 26, §1 (AMD).] B. Only a police vehicle may be equipped with a device that provides for alternate flashing of the vehicle's brake or rear directional lights and back-up lights or strobe lights behind the rear brake lenses. [PL 1995, c. 247, §4 (AMD).] C. The use of amber, white and green lights on vehicles is governed by the following. (1) A vehicle engaged in highway maintenance or in emergency rescue operations by emergency management and public safety agencies and a public service vehicle may be equipped with auxiliary lights that emit an amber light. (1-A) A Department of Labor motor vehicle operated by a workplace safety inspector may be equipped with auxiliary lights that emit an amber light. (1-B) A municipal public works vehicle or a vehicle operating under direction of the Department of Transportation or the Maine Turnpike Authority may be equipped with auxiliary lights that are green, white or amber or any combination of green, white or amber. Lights under this subparagraph may be located on the front, rear or sides of the vehicle and may flash, oscillate, strobe or blink. (2) A wrecker must be equipped with a flashing light mounted on top of the vehicle in such a manner as to emit an amber light over a 360-degree angle. The light must be in use on a public way or a place where public traffic may reasonably be anticipated when servicing, freeing, loading, unloading or towing a vehicle. (2-A) A wrecker may be equipped with a flashing green auxiliary light mounted on top of the vehicle in such a manner as to emit a green light over a 360-degree angle. A flashing green auxiliary light on a wrecker equipped in accordance with this subparagraph may be used only when: (a) The operator is assisting another vehicle operator or loading a vehicle onto the wrecker; and (b) The wrecker is pulled to the side of, or off, a public way and has halted in a location where it can safely remain stationary. (2-B) A public service vehicle may be equipped with a flashing green auxiliary light mounted on top of the vehicle in such a manner as to emit a green light over a 360-degree angle. A flashing green auxiliary light on a public service vehicle equipped in accordance with this subparagraph may be used only when assisting members of the public or law enforcement officers with a disabled vehicle, loading a vehicle onto a wrecker, removing debris from a roadway or constructing, maintaining, inspecting or repairing utility infrastructure. (3) A vehicle engaged in snow removal or sanding operations on a public way must be equipped with and display an auxiliary light that provides visible light coverage over a 360-degree range. The light must emit an amber beam of light and be equipped with a blinking or strobe light function and have sufficient intensity to be visible at 500 feet in normal daylight. When the left wing of a plow is in operation and extends over the center of the road, an auxiliary light must show the extreme end of the left wing. That light may be attached to the vehicle so that the beam of light points at the left wing. The light illuminating the left wing may be controlled by a separate switch or by the regular lighting system and must be in operation at all times when the vehicle is used for plowing snow on public ways. (4) A vehicle equipped and used for plowing snow on other than public ways may be equipped with an auxiliary rotary flashing light that must be mounted on top of the vehicle in such a manner as to emit an amber beam of light over a 360-degree angle, or an amber strobe, or combination of strobes, that emits at a minimum a beam of 50 candlepower and provides visible light coverage over a 360-degree range. The light may be in use on a public way only when the vehicle is entering the public way in the course of plowing private driveways and other off-highway locations. (5) A rural mail vehicle may be equipped with auxiliary lights. (a) The lights used to the front must be white or amber, or any shade between white and amber. (b) The lights used to the rear must be amber or red, or any shade between amber and red. (c) The lights, whether used to the front or rear, must be mounted at the same level and as widely spaced laterally as possible. (d) The lights, whether used to the front or rear, must flash simultaneously. (e) The lights must be visible from a distance of at least 500 feet in normal daylight. (6) A vehicle used or provided by a contract security company to assist in traffic control and direction at construction or maintenance sites on a public way may be equipped with amber auxiliary lights. (7) A Department of Public Safety vehicle operated by a motor carrier inspector or motor vehicle inspector may be equipped with auxiliary lights that emit an amber light. (8) A vehicle used by an animal control officer appointed pursuant to Title 7, section 3947 may be equipped with auxiliary lights that emit a flashing amber light. (9) A refuse, garbage, compost, recycling or trash business vehicle used by an individual to transport refuse, garbage, compost, recycling or trash may be equipped with auxiliary lights that emit a flashing amber light. (10) A vehicle used by an individual to transport and deliver newspapers may be equipped with auxiliary lights that emit a flashing amber light. [PL 2023, c. 68, §2 (AMD).] D. Except as provided in this paragraph, a vehicle may not be equipped with or display a blue light. (1) Emergency lights used on the following vehicles must emit a blue light or a combination of blue and white light: a police vehicle, except that a police vehicle may also use red emergency lights under paragraph F ; a Department of Corrections vehicle as described in subsection 1, paragraph B , subparagraph (6); a vehicle operated by a chief of police, a sheriff or a deputy sheriff; and a vehicle operated by a qualified deputy sheriff or other qualified individual performing court security-related functions and services. (2) Emergency lights used on an ambulance, an emergency medical service vehicle, a fire department vehicle or a hazardous material response vehicle may include one blue light mounted facing toward the rear of the vehicle so that the light is primarily visible to approaching traffic from the rear only. (3) The taillight of a vehicle, or replica of a vehicle, manufactured prior to 1952 and registered under section 457 , may contain a blue or purple insert of not more than one inch in diameter. (4) Blue interior auxiliary lighting or dash lighting may be used on any vehicle if no portion of the beam of light is visible at a height of 42 inches above a surface parallel with the level surface on which the vehicle stands at a distance of 20 feet from any part of the vehicle. (5) A vehicle owned by the Department of Public Safety may be equipped with blue emergency lighting and a siren, but neither the lighting nor the siren may be displayed or used except when the vehicle is being operated by a law enforcement officer. [PL 2019, c. 335, §5 (AMD).] E. [PL 2003, c. 340, §7 (RP).] F. Only vehicles listed in this paragraph, rural mail vehicles as provided in paragraph C , subparagraph (5) and school buses may be equipped with, display or use a red auxiliary or emergency light. (1) Emergency lights used on an ambulance, an emergency medical service vehicle, a fire department vehicle, a fire vehicle, a rescue vehicle or a hazardous material response vehicle must emit a red light or a combination of red and white light. (2) The municipal officers or a municipal official designated by the municipal officers, with the approval of the fire chief, may authorize an active member of a municipal or volunteer fire department to use one red or combination red and white flashing auxiliary light mounted in the windshield or on the dashboard at the front of the vehicle or 2 flashing red or combination red and white auxiliary lights mounted on the front of the vehicle above the front bumper and below the hood and one red auxiliary light mounted in the rear window area. In addition to the lights authorized under this subparagraph, the municipal officers or municipal official designated by the municipal officers, with the approval of the fire chief, may authorize an active member of a municipal or volunteer fire department to use one red light bar no more than 12 inches in length on the roof of the vehicle so that the light is visible to approaching traffic from the front and the rear of the vehicle. The light or lights may be displayed but may be used only while the member is en route to or at the scene of a fire or other emergency. A light mounted on the dashboard or in the windshield must be shielded so that the emitted light does not interfere with the operator's vision. The use of lights may be revoked at any time by the fire chief. (3) Members of an emergency medical service licensed by Maine Emergency Medical Services may display and use on a vehicle red or combination red and white flashing auxiliary lights and red auxiliary lights of the same proportion, in the same location and under the same conditions as those permitted municipal and volunteer firefighters, when authorized by the chief official of the emergency medical service. The use of lights may be revoked at any time by the chief official of the emergency medical service. (4) A police vehicle may be equipped with, display and use red emergency lights. The red emergency lights may comprise up to 50% of the emergency lights used on the police vehicle. (5) A municipality may authorize a harbor master or deputy harbor master appointed under Title 38, section 1 or 2 , respectively, to use one red or combination red and white flashing auxiliary light mounted in the windshield or on the dashboard at the front of a vehicle or 2 flashing red or combination red and white auxiliary lights mounted on the front of the vehicle above the front bumper and below the hood and one red auxiliary light mounted in the rear window area. The light or lights may be displayed but may be used only while the harbor master or deputy harbor master is responding to a watercraft emergency. A light mounted on the dashboard or in the windshield must be shielded so that the emitted light does not interfere with the operator's vision. The authorization for the use of lights or a siren may be revoked at any time by the municipality. A vehicle described in this subparagraph may be operated only when exercising emergency privileges by a person who has completed an emergency vehicle operation course provided by the Department of Public Safety, Bureau of State Police. A municipality may authorize an authorized emergency vehicle owned by a municipality and operated by a harbor master or deputy harbor master as described in subsection 1, paragraph B , subparagraph (24) to be equipped with a siren in addition to authorized lights pursuant to this subparagraph. [PL 2025, c. 190, §4 (AMD).] G. A vehicle may be equipped with a spotlight. Only spotlights on authorized emergency vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles and public service vehicles may be used on a public way, except any vehicle may use a spotlight in cases of necessity when other lights required by law fail to operate. [PL 2015, c. 32, §3 (AMD).] H. A vehicle in a funeral procession may be equipped with a flashing light. The light must emit a yellow beam of light. The light may not be more than 5 inches in diameter and must be placed on the dashboard. The light must be shielded so that the emitted light does not interfere with the operator's vision. The flashing light may be used only when the vehicle is used in a funeral procession. In addition, a vehicle operated by a licensed funeral home and used as a lead vehicle in a funeral procession may use a device that provides for a white flashing strobe light in the front grille. [PL 2007, c. 62, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2025, c. 190, §4 (AMD).]

3. Sirens. A bell or siren may not be installed or used on any vehicle, except an authorized emergency vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Right-of-way. An authorized emergency vehicle operated in response to, but not returning from, a call or fire alarm or operated in pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law has the right-of-way when emitting a visual signal using an emergency light and an audible signal using a bell or siren. On the approach of any such vehicle, the operator of every other vehicle shall immediately draw that vehicle as near as practicable to the right-hand curb, parallel to the curb and clear of any intersection and bring it to a standstill until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed. A violation of this subsection is a Class E crime that is punishable by a minimum fine of $250 for the first offense and for a 2nd offense occurring within 3 years of the first offense a mandatory 30-day suspension of a driver's license. [PL 2019, c. 113, Pt. C, §74 (AMD).]

4-A. Registered owner's liability for vehicle failing to yield right-of-way. A person who is a registered owner of a vehicle at the time that vehicle is involved in a violation of subsection 4 commits a traffic infraction unless a defense applies pursuant to paragraph D . For purposes of this subsection, "registered owner" includes a person issued a dealer or transporter registration plate. A. The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle who observes a violation of subsection 4 may report the violation to a law enforcement officer. If a report is made, the operator 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 of the registered owner's motor vehicle. [PL 1997, c. 162, §2 (NEW).] 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 1997, c. 162, §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 1997, c. 162, §2 (NEW).] D. The following are defenses to a violation of this subsection. (1) If a person other than the registered owner is operating the vehicle at the time of the violation of subsection 4 and is convicted of that violation, 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 investigation officer with a copy of the lease agreement containing the information required by section 254 , the lessee, 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, that person, 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 and an investigation determines the vehicle was stolen, the registered owner may not be charged under this subsection. [PL 1997, c. 162, §2 (NEW).] [PL 1997, c. 162, §2 (NEW).]

5. Exercise of privileges. The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle when responding to, but not upon returning from, an emergency call or fire alarm or when in pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law may exercise the privileges set forth in this subsection. The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle may: A. Park or stand, notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Proceed past a red signal, stop signal or stop sign, but only after slowing down as necessary for safe operation; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Exceed the maximum speed limits as long as life or property is not endangered, except that a capital security officer and a person operating a Department of Corrections vehicle who is not certified as a law enforcement officer by the Board of Trustees of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy may not exercise this privilege; [PL 2019, c. 319, §2 (AMD).] D. Disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning in specified directions; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. Proceed with caution past a stopped school bus that has red lights flashing only: (1) After coming to a complete stop; and (2) When signaled by the school bus operator to proceed. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] Nothing in this subsection prohibits the operator of an authorized emergency vehicle from activating emergency lights for the limited purpose of warning motorists when entering or exiting structures designed to house the emergency vehicles. [PL 2019, c. 319, §2 (AMD).]

6. Emergency lights and audible signals. The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle who is exercising the privileges granted under subsection 5 shall use an emergency light authorized by subsection 2 . The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle who is exercising the privileges granted under subsection 5, paragraphs B , C , D and E shall sound a bell or siren when reasonably necessary to warn pedestrians and other operators of the emergency vehicle's approach. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

7. Duty to drive with due regard for safety. Subsections 4 , 5 and 6 do not relieve the operator of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons, nor do those subsections protect the operator from the consequences of the operator's reckless disregard for the safety of others. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

8. Standards for lights on highway maintenance vehicles. The Commissioner of Transportation, with the consent of the Chief of the State Police, shall adopt standards and specifications for headlights, clearance lights, identification lights and other lights on highway maintenance vehicles. These standards must include prescribed usage for the various lights when a highway maintenance vehicle is in operation. The standards and specifications adopted pursuant to this section must correspond to and so far as practical conform with those approved by the national association of state highway officials. The standards and specifications adopted pursuant to this section are in addition to and do not supersede the lighting requirements established in subsections 1 to 7 and sections 1904 to 1909 . Highway maintenance vehicles owned by a municipality or performing maintenance under contract to a municipality must meet the lighting requirements established in subsections 1 to 7 and sections 1904 to 1909 . A municipality may adopt the standards and specifications developed in accordance with this subsection. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

9. Stationary vehicles. The operator of a vehicle passing a stationary authorized emergency vehicle using an emergency light or a stationary public service vehicle using its authorized lights, with due regard to the safety and traffic conditions, shall: A. Pass in a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle or public service vehicle, if possible; or [PL 2015, c. 32, §4 (AMD).] B. If passing in a nonadjacent lane is impossible or unsafe, pass the emergency vehicle or public service vehicle at a careful and prudent speed reasonable for passing the authorized emergency vehicle or public service vehicle safely. [PL 2015, c. 32, §4 (AMD).] A violation of this subsection is a traffic infraction for which a minimum fine of $275 must be adjudged. [PL 2019, c. 254, §1 (AMD).]

10. Life support transport vehicle. A life support transport vehicle may not be equipped with emergency lighting or sirens and may not exercise emergency privileges under subsection 4 or 5 . The Commissioner of Public Safety may adopt rules for the purpose of designating life support transport vehicles. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2019, c. 397, §28 (NEW).]

11. Maine State Ferry Service. The Commissioner of Transportation may adopt rules to allow certain authorized emergency vehicles, including but not limited to a life support transport vehicle, to idle on a vessel operated by the Maine State Ferry Service and any additional rules necessary to ensure passenger safety while such a vehicle is idling on a ferry. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A . [PL 2019, c. 397, §28 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1756 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 15 / Section 1756
29-A §1756. Inspection standards
Status: in_force

1. Inspection standards. Equipment subject to inspection must: A. Be in good working order; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. Be safely attached or secured to the chassis or body of the vehicle; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. Be mechanically safe; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] D. Not pose a hazard to the occupant of the vehicle or to the general public; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] E. Meet the standards set forth in rules adopted by the Chief of the State Police. [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. Inspection standard for catalytic converter. Notwithstanding the inspection standards of subsection 1 , a catalytic converter subject to the inspection required by section 1751, subsection 2, paragraph N must meet the rules promulgated by the Chief of the State Police and must be safely attached or secured to the chassis or body of the vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Windows. In addition to the standards set forth in subsection 1 , windows must meet the standards of sections 1915 and 1916 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Fenders. Except as provided by section 1953, subsection 2, paragraph E , a motor vehicle other than a street rod must be equipped with fenders or fenders and extensions. When a wheel and tire are installed that permit the tire tread to extend beyond the natural fender configuration, the fenders must be modified or extended to cover the exposed tire tread. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Safety seat belts. [PL 2007, c. 348, §6 (RP).]

6. Inspection standard for fuel tank cap. Notwithstanding the inspection standards of subsection 1 , a fuel tank cap subject to the inspection required by section 1751, subsection 2‑A, paragraph B must meet the standards in rules adopted by the Chief of the State Police. The Chief of the State Police shall adopt rules to establish procedures and standards for a fuel tank cap pressure test. [PL 1997, c. 786, §4 (NEW).]

7. Inspection standard for on-board diagnostic system. Notwithstanding the inspection standards of subsection 1 , an on-board diagnostic system subject to the inspection required by section 1751, subsection 2‑A, paragraph C must meet the standards in rules adopted by the Chief of the State Police. The Chief of the State Police shall adopt rules that meet the requirements of 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 85 for on-board diagnostic test procedures, standards and equipment. [PL 1997, c. 786, §4 (NEW).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1453 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 11 / Section 1453
29-A §1453. Reports of conviction -- Article III
Status: in_force

The licensing authority of a party state shall report each conviction of a person from another party state occurring within its jurisdiction to the licensing authority of the home state of the licensee. The report must clearly identify the person convicted; describe the violation specifying the section of the statute, code or ordinance violated; identify the court in which action was taken; indicate whether a plea of guilty or not guilty was entered, or whether the conviction was a result of the forfeiture of bail, bond or other security; and must include any special findings made in connection with the conviction. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2521 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 23 / Section 2521
29-A §2521. Implied consent to chemical tests
Status: in_force

1. Mandatory submission to test. If there is probable cause to believe a person has operated a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicants, that person shall submit to and complete a test to determine an alcohol level and the presence of a drug or drug metabolite by analysis of blood, breath or urine. [PL 2013, c. 459, §7 (AMD).]

2. Type of test. A law enforcement officer shall administer a breath test unless, in that officer's determination, a breath test is unreasonable. If a breath test is determined to be unreasonable, another chemical test must be administered in place of a breath test. For a blood test the operator may choose a physician, if reasonably available. [PL 2013, c. 459, §8 (AMD).]

3. Warnings. Neither a refusal to submit to a test nor a failure to complete a test may be used for any of the purposes specified in paragraph A , B or C unless the person has first been told that the refusal or failure will: A. Result in suspension of that person's driver's license for a period up to 6 years; [PL 1995, c. 368, Pt. AAA, §28 (AMD).] B. Be admissible in evidence at a trial for operating under the influence of intoxicants; and [PL 1995, c. 368, Pt. AAA, §28 (AMD).] C. Be considered an aggravating factor at sentencing if the person is convicted of operating under the influence of intoxicants that, in addition to other penalties, will subject the person to a mandatory minimum period of incarceration. [PL 1995, c. 368, Pt. AAA, §29 (NEW).] [PL 1997, c. 357, §1 (AMD).]

4. Exclusion as evidence. A test result may not be excluded as evidence in a proceeding before an administrative officer or court solely as a result of the failure of the law enforcement officer to comply with the notice of subsection 3 . [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

5. Suspension for refusal. The Secretary of State shall immediately suspend the license of a person who fails to submit to and complete a test. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

6. Period of suspension. Except when a longer period of suspension is otherwise provided by law, the suspension is for a period of 275 days for the first refusal, 18 months for a 2nd refusal, 4 years for a 3rd refusal and 6 years for a 4th refusal. [PL 1995, c. 645, Pt. B, §21 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 645, Pt. B, §24 (AFF).]

6-A. Suspension for refusal when probable cause exists to believe death has occurred or will occur. Except when a longer period of suspension is otherwise provided by law, if, in addition to the probable cause set forth in subsection 1 , there is also probable cause to believe that death occurred or will occur, the suspension is for a period of one year for a first refusal. [PL 2021, c. 608, Pt. A, §4 (NEW).]

7. Decision. A suspension must be removed if, after hearing pursuant to section 2483 , it is determined that the person would not have failed to submit but for the failure of the law enforcement officer to give the warnings required by subsection 3 . [PL 1995, c. 368, Pt. AAA, §31 (AMD).]

8. Issues. If a hearing is requested in accordance with section 2483 , in addition to specific issues required by a specific offense, the scope of the hearing must include whether: A. There was probable cause to believe the person operated a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicants; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] A-1. For the purposes of subsection 6‑A , there is probable cause to believe that death has occurred or will occur; [PL 2021, c. 608, Pt. A, §5 (NEW).] B. The person was informed of the consequences of failing to submit to a test; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. The person failed to submit to a test. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] [PL 2021, c. 608, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]

9. Results of test. On request, full information concerning a test must be made available to the person tested or that person's attorney by the law enforcement officer. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2089 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2089
29-A §2089. Operation of low-speed vehicles
Status: in_force

A person operating a low-speed vehicle on a public way shall comply with the provisions of this chapter as they apply to the operator of an automobile and with this section. [PL 2003, c. 397, §10 (NEW).]

1. License required. A person operating a low-speed vehicle must possess a valid Class A, Class B or Class C driver's license pursuant to section 1252 . [PL 2003, c. 397, §10 (NEW).]

2. Road restrictions. A low-speed vehicle may be operated only on a road or street where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. A low-speed vehicle may cross, at an intersection, a road or street with a posted speed limit of more than 35 miles per hour. The department may prohibit the operation of a low-speed vehicle on any highway or segment of highway under its jurisdiction if it determines that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of public safety. A municipality may prohibit the operation of a low-speed vehicle on any road under its jurisdiction if it determines that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of public safety. [PL 2003, c. 397, §10 (NEW).]

3. Violation. A person who operates a low-speed vehicle in violation of subsection 2 commits a traffic infraction. [PL 2003, c. 397, §10 (NEW).]

4. Rulemaking. The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Commissioner of Transportation and the Commissioner of Public Safety, may adopt rules in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375 to implement this section, monitor the registration and use of low-speed vehicles and provide for the safe operation of low-speed vehicles. [PL 2003, c. 397, §10 (NEW).] Revisor's Note: §2089. Antique vehicles (As enacted by PL 2003, c. 128, §1 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 29-A, SECTION 2090)
29-A M.R.S. § 1914 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 17 / Section 1914
29-A §1914. Safety seat belts
Status: in_force

1. Safety seat belts required. A person may not buy, sell, lease, trade or transfer from or to a resident at retail a model year 1966 or later motor vehicle, unless that vehicle is equipped with safety seat belts installed for use in the left and right front seats. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 1652 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 13 / Section 1652
29-A §1652. Owner and renter jointly and severally liable
Status: in_force

1. Liability. An owner engaged in the business of renting motor vehicles, with or without drivers, who rents a vehicle to another for use on a public way, is jointly and severally liable with the renter for damage caused by the negligence of the renter in operating the vehicle and for any damages caused by the negligence of a person operating the vehicle by or with the permission of the renter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Applicability. This section does not apply to a rental as part of a bona fide transaction involving the sale of a motor vehicle. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

3. Limitation. This section does not give to a passenger in a rented vehicle a right of action against the owner. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

4. Contributory negligence. This section does not affect contributory negligence as a defense. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
29-A M.R.S. § 2063 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 19 / Section 2063
29-A §2063. Bicycles, roller skis, toy vehicles and scooters
Status: in_force

1. Definitions. For the purpose of this section, "bicycle" includes a motorized bicycle, a motorized tricycle, a motorized scooter and an electric bicycle. [PL 2019, c. 349, §6 (AMD).]

2. Riding to the right. A person operating a bicycle or roller skis upon a roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time and place shall operate on the right portion of the way as far as practicable except when it is unsafe to do so as determined by the bicyclist or roller skier or: A. When overtaking and passing another roller skier, bicycle or other vehicle proceeding in the same direction; [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).] B. When preparing for or making a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway; [PL 2007, c. 400, §3 (NEW).] C. When proceeding straight in a place where right turns are permitted; and [PL 2007, c. 400, §3 (NEW).] D. When necessary to avoid hazardous conditions, including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, roller skiers, pedestrians, animals, broken pavement, glass, sand, puddles, ice, surface hazards or opening doors from parallel-parked vehicles, or a lane of substandard width that makes it unsafe to continue along the right portion of the way. For purposes of this paragraph, "lane of substandard width" means a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle or roller skier and a vehicle to travel safely side by side in the lane. [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).] This subsection does not apply in a municipality that, by ordinance approved by the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Transportation, makes other provisions regarding the operating location of a bicycle or roller skier on a roadway. [PL 2013, c. 241, §4 (AMD).]

2-A. Bicycle or roller skier traveling on shoulder. Notwithstanding subsection 2 , a person operating a bicycle or roller skis may travel on paved shoulders. [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).]

3. Seating. A person operating a bicycle may not ride other than upon or astride a regular and permanently attached seat. [PL 2007, c. 400, §4 (AMD).]

3-A. Number of persons. A bicycle may not be used to carry more persons than the number for which it is designed and equipped. [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. Q, §43 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]

4. Hitching rides. A person riding on roller skis, a bicycle or a scooter may not attach it to a moving vehicle on a way. [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).]

5. Rights and duties. A person riding a bicycle or scooter or operating roller skis on a way has the rights and is subject to the duties applicable to the operator of a vehicle, except as to: A. Special regulations; and [PL 2001, c. 667, Pt. C, §17 (RPR).] B. Provisions in this Title that by their nature can have no application. [PL 2001, c. 667, Pt. C, §17 (RPR).] [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).]

6. Speed. A motorized bicycle or motorized scooter may not be operated in excess of 20 miles per hour. [PL 2001, c. 667, Pt. C, §17 (RPR).]

7. Penalties. A person 17 years of age or over who violates subsection 2 , 3 , 3‑A , 4 , 6 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 or 13 commits a traffic infraction for which a fine of not less than $25 and not more than $250 may be adjudged. A person under 17 years of age is not subject to a fine under this section. [PL 2015, c. 164, §6 (AMD).]

8. Impoundment. The chief of police of a municipality, or if there is no chief of police, the chair of the local legislative body, when satisfied that a juvenile under the age of 17 years has ridden a bicycle or scooter or has operated roller skis in violation of this section, may impound the bicycle, scooter or roller skis for a period not to exceed 5 days for the first offense, 10 days for a 2nd offense and 30 days for a subsequent offense. [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).]

9. Passing a school bus. A person operating a bicycle or roller skis on a way, in a parking area or on school property, on meeting or overtaking a school bus from either direction when the bus has stopped with its red lights flashing to receive or discharge passengers, shall stop the bicycle or roller skis before reaching the school bus. The person may not proceed until the school bus resumes motion or until signaled by the school bus operator to proceed. The operator of a bicycle or roller skis on a way separated by curbing or other physical barrier need not stop on meeting or passing a school bus traveling in a lane separated by the barrier from the lane in which that person is traveling. [PL 2009, c. 484, §5 (AMD).]

10. Duty to yield. A bicyclist, roller skier or other nonmotorized traffic must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the way in a marked crosswalk who is proceeding in accordance with a traffic-control device as provided in section 2057 or who is proceeding without a traffic-control device in operation. For purposes of this subsection, "yield the right-of-way" means to slow or stop to avoid colliding with or causing other harm to a pedestrian. [PL 2015, c. 164, §7 (NEW).]

11. Traffic-control devices. A person operating a bicycle or roller skis shall obey a traffic-control device, unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer. A traffic-control device conforming to the requirements for these devices is presumed to comply with this chapter. [PL 2015, c. 164, §7 (NEW).]

12. Stop signs. Unless directed to proceed by a law enforcement officer or traffic-control device, a person operating a bicycle or roller skis approaching a stop sign shall stop and: A. Yield the right-of-way to a vehicle that has entered the intersection or that is approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard; and [PL 2015, c. 164, §7 (NEW).] B. Having yielded, a person operating a bicycle or roller skis may proceed. All other operators approaching the intersection shall yield the right-of-way to the person operating a bicycle or roller skis so proceeding. [PL 2015, c. 164, §7 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 164, §7 (NEW).]

13. One-way road. On a public way posted for one-way traffic, unless directed to proceed by a law enforcement officer or traffic-control device, a bicycle may be ridden only in the direction designated. [PL 2015, c. 164, §7 (NEW).]

14. Electric bicycles. The following provisions govern electric bicycles. A. A person operating an electric bicycle is not subject to the provisions of this Title relating to financial responsibility, driver's licenses, registration and license plate requirements. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] B. Beginning October 1, 2019, a manufacturer, distributor or seller of electric bicycles in this State shall apply a label that is permanently affixed, in a prominent location, to each electric bicycle. The label must contain the classification number, top assisted speed and motor wattage of the electric bicycle and must be printed in Arial font in at least 9-point type. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] C. A person may not tamper with or modify an electric bicycle so as to change the motor-powered speed capability or motor engagement between pedal-assist and throttle-assist types of engagement, unless the person appropriately replaces the label indicating the classification required in paragraph B . A person may not tamper with or modify an electric bicycle in a manner that allows the motor to provide assistance above the speed of: (1) Twenty miles per hour if the electric bicycle is being propelled exclusively by the motor; or (2) Twenty-eight miles per hour if the motor is providing assistance only when the rider is pedaling. If the motor on an electric bicycle is modified so that a limit established in subparagraph (1) or (2) is exceeded, that vehicle is no longer an electric bicycle. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] D. An electric bicycle must comply with the equipment and manufacturing requirements for bicycles adopted by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission pursuant to 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1512. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] E. The motor on an electric bicycle must disengage or cease to propel the electric bicycle when the brakes are applied or, if the electric bicycle is a Class 1 electric bicycle or Class 3 electric bicycle, when the operator stops pedaling. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] F. This paragraph governs the operation of electric bicycles on bicycle and multi-use paths and other bikeways as defined in section 2322, subsection 7 , referred to in this paragraph as bicycle paths. (1) A Class 1 electric bicycle or a Class 2 electric bicycle may be operated in any place where bicycles are permitted to travel, including, but not limited to, bicycle paths, except that a municipality, local authority or governing body of a public agency that has jurisdiction over a bicycle path may prohibit the operation of a Class 1 electric bicycle or Class 2 electric bicycle on that bicycle path. (2) A Class 3 electric bicycle may not be operated on a bicycle path unless it is within a highway or roadway or the bicycle path has been authorized for the operation of Class 3 electric bicycles by the municipality, local authority or governing body of a public agency that has jurisdiction over the bicycle path. (3) Notwithstanding subparagraphs (1) and (2), an electric bicycle may not be operated on a bicycle path designated for nonmotorized traffic if significant portions of the bicycle path have a natural surface, including gravel, stones or wooden bridging, unless authorized by the municipality, local authority or governing body of a public agency that has jurisdiction over the bicycle path. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] G. A Class 3 electric bicycle must be equipped with a speedometer that displays the speed the electric bicycle is traveling in miles per hour. [PL 2021, c. 86, §1 (AMD).] H. This paragraph governs age restrictions for use of electric bicycles. (1) A person under 16 years of age may not operate a Class 2 or Class 3 electric bicycle. (2) A person under 16 years of age may be a passenger on a Class 2 or Class 3 electric bicycle only if it is designed to accommodate passengers. (3) A person under 16 years of age who is an operator or passenger on an electric bicycle shall wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet, as defined in section 2322, subsection 2 . [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] I. The operator of an electric bicycle is subject to the restrictions provided under section 2112‑A and 23 United States Code, Section 154. [PL 2019, c. 349, §7 (NEW).] This subsection may not be construed to limit the authority of the owner of a private way or the owner of private property to restrict or allow the operation of electric bicycles on the owner's private way or private property. [PL 2021, c. 86, §1 (AMD).]
29-A M.R.S. § 702 — ME Code / Title 29-A / Chapter 7 / Section 702
29-A §702. Perfecting security interest
Status: in_force

1. Valid against creditors, transferees and lienholders. A security interest in a vehicle for which a certificate of title is issued is not valid against creditors of the owner or subsequent transferees or lienholders unless perfected as provided in this subchapter. [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]

2. Method. A security interest is perfected by the delivery to the Secretary of State of: A. The certificate of origin or existing certificate of title or certificate of salvage; [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] B. An application for a certificate of title containing the name and address of the lienholder and the date of the security agreement; and [PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).] C. The required fee. [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-A. Lienholder registration. A lienholder who participates in the electronic lien titling program is required to register with the Secretary of State for a lienholder identification number in accordance with rules adopted by the Secretary of State. [PL 2023, c. 257, §11 (AMD).]

3. Date. A security interest is perfected as of the date of delivery under subsection 2 . [PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §26 (RPR); PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §28 (AFF).]

4. Vehicle brought into State. If a vehicle is subject to a security interest when brought into this State, the perfection, effect of perfection and priority of the security interest is determined in accordance with Title 11, Article 9‑A, Part 3 . [PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §26 (RPR); PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §28 (AFF).]

5. Vehicles located outside State and registered in State. If a vehicle is located outside this State and is not the subject of a valid certificate of title issued by another jurisdiction, upon registration of the vehicle in this State, the provisions of this chapter on perfection of a security interest apply. Notwithstanding Title 11, Article 9‑A, Part 3 , perfection under this subchapter remains valid until the certificate issued by this State is surrendered for retitling in another jurisdiction. A. [PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §27 (RP); PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §28 (AFF).] B. [PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §27 (RP); PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §28 (AFF).] [PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §27 (RPR); PL 1999, c. 699, Pt. B, §28 (AFF).]