Why Vanity Plates Are So Popular in Maine
Maine consistently ranks at or near the top of every state in the U.S. for vanity plate ownership. Estimates suggest more than one in ten registered vehicles in the Pine Tree State carries a personalized plate — a rate far higher than the national average of around 4%. The reasons are practical: Maine's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) keeps the fee reasonable, the application process is simple, and Mainers historically had wide latitude to be creative with their messages.
Whether you drive a lobster truck in Portland or a Subaru in Bangor, a vanity plate is a quick way to add personality to your ride while still meeting Maine's license plate laws.
How to Apply for a Vanity Plate in Maine
Applying for vanity plates Maine drivers can use is straightforward. The Maine BMV allows applications online, by mail, or in person at a branch office.
- Choose your combination. Maine allows up to 7 characters (letters, numbers, spaces, or hyphens) on standard passenger vanity plates.
- Check availability. Use the Maine BMV's online vanity plate availability tool to make sure your combination isn't already taken.
- Submit your application. Complete the vanity registration plate application form and pay the fee.
- Wait for delivery. Plates typically arrive by mail within a few weeks.
Vanity Plate Fees
As of 2025, Maine charges an annual vanity plate fee in addition to your normal registration cost. The exact amount depends on whether you're pairing the vanity option with a specialty plate design (like the loon, chickadee, or lobster plate).
What You Can and Can't Put on a Maine Vanity Plate
Maine's vanity plate rules have shifted in recent years. A 2015 policy change dramatically loosened restrictions, briefly making Maine home to some of the most permissive plates in America. However, in 2022 the legislature passed a law re-instating restrictions on obscene, profane, or hateful language after complaints from the public.
Today, the Maine BMV will reject plates that contain:
- Profanity or vulgar language
- References to sexual acts or genitalia
- Hate speech, slurs, or references to violence
- References to illegal drugs or drug use
- Duplicates of existing plate combinations
If your plate is approved and later reported as offensive, the BMV can recall it. Owners typically receive a letter and must return the plate in exchange for a replacement.
Vanity Plate Ideas That Work in Maine
Some of the most popular themes for Maine vanity plates play on the state's identity:
- Coastal life: LOBSTAH, TIDE, BUOY, SALTY
- Outdoor culture: HIKR, KYAK, MOOSE, TRAILS
- Local pride: 207 (the area code), MAINAH, DOWNEAST
- Personal touches: initials, nicknames, birth years, hobbies
Before you commit, remember that clever combinations can sometimes be misread. If a stranger can't figure out what your plate says, half the fun is lost.
Specialty Plates vs. Vanity Plates
Don't confuse a vanity plate with a specialty plate. Specialty plates in Maine feature different background artwork — the black-capped chickadee (standard), lobster, University of Maine, veteran, agriculture, and conservation designs, among others. You can combine most specialty designs with a custom vanity message for an additional fee, giving you both a unique look and a personalized message.
What If Someone Reports Your Plate?
Vanity plates are memorable — which is exactly why they show up more often in complaints about illegal parking, hit-and-runs, or bad driver reports. A distinctive plate like "LOBSTAH" is far easier for a witness to remember than a random alphanumeric combination.
If you own a vanity plate in Maine, be aware that others may look it up. Anyone can perform a basic Maine license plate lookup on PlateQuery to leave a message, report an incident, or check whether a plate has any public notes tied to it. If someone sees your vehicle blocking a driveway or left as an abandoned vehicle, your plate is often the fastest way for them to reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a vanity plate in Maine?
Most applicants receive their plates within 2–4 weeks after approval.
Can I transfer my Maine vanity plate to a new vehicle?
Yes. Vanity plates in Maine belong to the registrant, not the vehicle, and can be transferred when you buy or sell a car.
What happens if my vanity plate is rejected?
The BMV will notify you and refund the vanity portion of your fee. You can submit a new combination for consideration.
Can I appeal a recalled plate?
Yes. Maine provides an appeal process if the BMV recalls a plate you believe complies with the rules.
The Bottom Line
A vanity plate is one of the most affordable ways to make your vehicle uniquely yours in Maine. Just remember that a memorable plate cuts both ways — it stands out to friends and strangers alike. If you own a vanity plate (or spot one you need to contact), PlateQuery lets you claim your plate profile, receive messages from other drivers, or reach out to a vehicle owner about a parking issue, a fender bender, or simply a compliment on a clever combo.