Updated February 21, 2023
A Maine motor vehicle bill of sale formally completes a vehicle’s purchase and sale transaction between a buyer and seller. Whether a vehicle was purchased from a private party or a dealership, new owners in the State of Maine must present a bill of sale to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to register the vehicle under their name and legally drive on public roads.
Signing Requirements – Buyer, seller, and lienholder (if any) must sign.
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Registering a Vehicle
New owners must register their vehicles immediately upon purchase with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). If transferring a vehicle from another state, the new resident must register the vehicle with the BMV within thirty (30) days after establishing residency. Registrations expire once a year, typically on the month in which the vehicle was first registered. Renewals can be processed online through the Rapid Renewal Service.
Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form MVT-32) – Required upon registering the vehicle at a municipal town office or BMV location.
Where to Register
Vehicles may be registered at participating local municipal offices or at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) location.
Required Documents
- Bill of Sale;
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form MVT-32);
- Original Certificate of Title (if lost, see Motor Vehicle Title Replacement);
- Receipt of Excise Tax Payment (varies depending on municipalities);
- White & Yellow Copy of Registration Application (obtained at a local municipalities town office);
- Valid Maine Driver’s License;
- Blue Title Application (only vehicles from 1995 or newer);
- Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) Sticker (if the vehicle is brand new);
- Registration Fees;
- Proof of Insurance with Minimum Requirements; and
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney, if an agent shall represent the vehicle owner in any vehicle-related matters.