The issue date on a Maine driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles issues licenses valid for 6 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and what every field on your Maine license means.

Where to find the issue date on a Maine driver's license

On the current Maine license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when Bureau of Motor Vehicles issued your current card. Renewing your license resets the ISS date on the new card while your license number stays the same.

Date fields on a Maine driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Maine driver's licenses are valid for 6 years for most adult drivers.

What does DD mean on a Maine driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued, even if your license number stays the same. Banks, car rental agencies, and identity systems use the DD to confirm the card has not been altered.

📱

Preparing for your DMV test?

Download our free iOS app — 1,164+ practice questions in 11 languages, flashcards, and offline study!

Restrictions on a Maine driver's license

The restrictions field on Maine licenses is labeled RSTR or Restrictions. Common restriction codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required while driving
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway or expressway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only
• F — Outside mirror required on driver's side

Maine REAL ID

Maine offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Maine license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and certain federal facilities. To get a Maine REAL ID, visit a Maine license office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Maine address.

How to renew a Maine driver's license

Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles offers online renewal at maine.gov/sos/bmv for eligible drivers. Maine licenses are valid for 6 years for most adult drivers. In-person renewal is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions.

How to find your original Maine licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was issued, not your original licensing date. To find your original date, request a copy of your Maine driving record through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles website or in person at a Maine license office.