Maine offers several classes of title including titles for regular automobiles and warranty titles for specialized categories. According to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, applications for Maine certificates of title are available through branch offices throughout the state and the main office in Augusta. Mail completed applications, the appropriate fee, and the previous title to one of the locations.
Maine requires most vehicle owners to pay a $33 fee for an original certificate of title, with or without liens. After purchasing a car, the owner has 30 days to apply for a title before additional fees are issued. Vehicle owners must apply for a new title if a change in name or address occurs, to add a new name to the title, to change the lienholder or if the lien is released. Maine charges a $5 fee to search the records by vehicle identification number (VIN) if the owner does not have the previous title.
An owner of an automobile or truck made after 1916, but older than 25 years, may register her vehicle as an antique auto. The owner may not use the vehicle as her primary transportation. The engine must be from the same year as the vehicle, or built to the specifications of the vehicle's original engine. An owner of a motor vehicle made before 1916 may register his vehicle as a horseless carriage. The vehicle must meet the same standards for the engine and transportation as an antique auto. The fee for a warranty title is $40.
Maine defines classic vehicles as at least 16- but less than 26-years old. The vehicle must be worth more than $5,000. The Secretary of State determines which vehicles qualify based on their make, model, and condition and value to collectors. The fee for a warranty title is $40.
A vehicle owner may apply for a certificate of salvage. The owner must relinquish the certificate of title upon application and provide evidence that she or the insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. The owner of a rebuilt vehicle may apply for a rebuilt salvage title. Two or more vehicle frames must be joined together or at least five components of a salvage vehicle must be replaced. The fee for a salvage title is $33.
