Local DUI Laws

In Maine, impaired driving is officially classified as Operating Under the Influence (OUI), and a conviction can have far-reaching consequences—especially when it comes to auto insurance. Many drivers are surprised by how dramatically insurance rates can change after an OUI, and how long those effects can last. From increased premiums to special coverage requirements, an OUI alters your relationship with insurers in significant ways.

This post explains exactly how an OUI conviction impacts auto insurance in Maine. Whether you’re facing a recent charge or trying to understand long-term consequences, this guide covers the basics of how insurance companies evaluate risk, how long premiums stay elevated, and what to expect when renewing or applying for a new policy after an OUI.

Because Maine retains OUI offenses on your driving record permanently—and requires certain administrative actions after a conviction—understanding these changes is essential for any driver navigating life after an OUI.

Immediate Insurance Consequences After an OUI

After an OUI conviction in Maine, one of the first changes you’ll notice is a sharp increase in insurance premiums. Insurance companies view impaired driving as a serious risk factor and generally reclassify the driver as high-risk. This leads to premium hikes that can start as soon as your insurer is notified of the conviction or license suspension.

Maine law requires insurance companies to be notified when a driver is convicted of an OUI. This notification is typically triggered when your license is suspended and then reinstated—a process that requires communication with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Once your insurer is aware of the conviction, expect your rates to increase significantly, often doubling or tripling depending on your driving history and the provider’s policy.

These increased premiums can begin immediately upon renewal and may also result in your policy being canceled or non-renewed, depending on the insurer’s guidelines. Even if you manage to maintain coverage, you’ll likely be paying substantially more for the same level of protection.

The Role of SR-22 Insurance in Maine

In most cases, a driver convicted of OUI in Maine must file an SR-22 certificate to have their license reinstated. An SR-22 is not an insurance policy itself—it’s a form your insurer files with the state to prove that you carry the minimum required coverage.

SR-22 filing is mandatory for most OUI-related license suspensions in Maine. Once you’re required to carry SR-22 insurance, it typically must be maintained for three years. During that time, if the policy lapses or is canceled, the insurer must notify the state, and your license could be suspended again.

Because SR-22 is associated with high-risk drivers, policies that include this form are often much more expensive. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, which means you may have to switch providers just to meet state requirements—often at a higher cost.

How Long Higher Insurance Rates Last After an OUI

In Maine, the duration of increased insurance rates after an OUI depends on the insurance provider, but most companies maintain elevated premiums for three to five years. During this time, the OUI remains highly relevant in underwriting decisions.

After five years of clean driving—meaning no new violations or claims—some insurers may reduce your premiums, especially if you’ve shown a consistent pattern of responsible behavior. However, some companies keep OUI convictions in their rating systems for even longer, depending on their internal guidelines.

It’s also important to note that Maine has a 10-year lookback period for repeat OUI offenses. While this lookback primarily applies to criminal sentencing, some insurers also use the 10-year mark as a threshold when evaluating a driver’s long-term risk profile.

Even after premiums go down, your OUI may still be considered by insurers in risk assessments, especially when applying for a new policy or switching providers.

Shopping for Auto Insurance After an OUI

Finding affordable insurance after an OUI conviction can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. In Maine, drivers with OUI convictions are encouraged to:

• Compare quotes from multiple insurers, as pricing varies significantly between companies
• Look for providers that specialize in high-risk coverage
• Consider increasing deductibles to reduce premium costs
• Maintain a clean driving record to qualify for rate reductions over time

When applying for insurance post-OUI, expect to be asked directly about any recent convictions. Insurers will typically pull your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), which includes OUI information, license suspensions, and reinstatement dates. Be prepared to provide documentation related to any required SR-22 filings.

Drivers should also avoid lapses in coverage, as these can further increase premiums and delay the license reinstatement process.

Long-Term Implications for Coverage and Eligibility

An OUI conviction in Maine doesn’t just increase your rates—it can also impact your eligibility for certain types of coverage. Some insurers may deny optional add-ons or limit your ability to qualify for preferred driver programs.

In severe or repeat cases, drivers may be required to purchase insurance through a non-standard insurer or assigned risk pool, which typically results in higher costs and reduced coverage options. These providers serve high-risk drivers who are unable to secure coverage through traditional means.

Even years after an OUI, you may face challenges getting competitive quotes, particularly if the conviction was part of a pattern of risky driving behavior. Maintaining continuous coverage, avoiding further violations, and demonstrating responsible driving over time are the best ways to improve your insurance standing.

OUI and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Holders

For those who hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Maine, an OUI conviction can be even more damaging. CDL holders are held to a higher standard under federal and state law, and an OUI conviction—whether it occurs in a personal or commercial vehicle—can lead to suspension or revocation of commercial driving privileges.

Most employers in the commercial driving sector have zero-tolerance policies for OUI, and insurance companies that provide fleet coverage often exclude drivers with any impaired driving history. This means a single conviction can result in job loss, loss of licensure, and significant challenges finding new employment in the field.

Additionally, the OUI conviction remains on the driver’s MVR and CDL record, which is reviewed during routine compliance checks, audits, and renewals.

FAQ: OUI and Auto Insurance in Maine

How much does insurance go up after an OUI in Maine?
Rates can double or even triple after a conviction. The exact amount depends on the insurer, but expect substantial increases.

How long do I need SR-22 insurance in Maine after an OUI?
Most drivers are required to carry SR-22 insurance for three years after license reinstatement.

Can I get insurance after an OUI?
Yes, but it may require using a high-risk insurer. Not all companies offer SR-22 filings, so you may need to switch providers.

Will my insurance ever go back down?
Possibly. If you maintain a clean record for three to five years, some insurers will gradually reduce your premiums.

Does an OUI affect insurance even after 10 years?
While some legal consequences may expire after 10 years, certain insurers may still consider the offense when evaluating risk.

Conclusion

An OUI conviction in Maine significantly affects auto insurance costs, eligibility, and coverage. With immediate premium increases, mandatory SR-22 filings, and long-term implications for high-risk status, the financial impact of impaired driving can extend well beyond court penalties. While rates may decrease over time with clean driving, the record of the conviction remains accessible to insurers for years.

To learn more about how impaired driving charges impact long-term insurance costs and legal visibility, visit our DUI Records and Long Term Impact page. For a closer look at the insurance-specific effects, explore our guide on How a DUI Affects Auto Insurance Rates.

In Maine, impaired driving is officially classified as Operating Under the Influence (OUI). For individuals with a past or pending OUI conviction, one of the most important questions is how it might affect employment opportunities. Whether you’re applying for a new job, renewing a professional license, or returning to the workforce, it’s essential to understand how employers in Maine view OUI convictions and what factors come into play.

This post explains the potential impact of an OUI on your employment status in Maine, covering background checks, industry-specific concerns, licensing issues, and disclosure expectations. While not every employer responds to an OUI the same way, understanding the broader landscape can help individuals plan their next steps and manage expectations throughout the hiring or credentialing process.

Maine does not offer expungement or sealing for OUI convictions, which means the offense remains visible on background checks indefinitely. This visibility is a key factor in employment outcomes, especially in roles involving driving, public safety, or trust-sensitive responsibilities.

How Employers Use Background Checks in Maine

Most employers in Maine conduct background checks during the hiring process, particularly for roles involving driving, access to sensitive data, or work with vulnerable populations. These checks often include both criminal records and driving records, both of which will reflect an OUI conviction.

A criminal background check will show a conviction for OUI, which is typically a Class D misdemeanor in Maine for first offenses. Driving-related checks, such as Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs), will include the OUI, any license suspensions, and other related penalties.

Employers use this information to assess risk, liability, and reliability. Depending on the role, an OUI may be viewed as a minor concern or a serious disqualifier. For example, someone applying for a warehouse job may be treated differently than someone applying to drive a company vehicle or work with children.

Jobs Most Likely to Be Affected by an OUI

Not all jobs weigh OUI convictions equally. In Maine, the likelihood that an OUI affects your employment depends heavily on the type of position you’re applying for:

• Driving Roles: Jobs that involve operating a company vehicle—such as delivery drivers, transportation workers, or CDL-holding positions—are most directly impacted. Employers may have strict policies requiring a clean driving record, and insurance carriers may not cover drivers with recent OUIs.
• Healthcare and Education: Fields involving vulnerable populations often include in-depth background checks. A criminal conviction for OUI may not automatically disqualify a candidate, but it could trigger additional review or require explanation.
• Government or Security Jobs: Positions that involve law enforcement, government service, or access to sensitive facilities are likely to scrutinize any criminal history, including OUI.
• Customer-Facing Roles: Some employers may consider public image and reputation when evaluating candidates. A visible OUI conviction might be viewed as a concern in certain customer service, sales, or supervisory positions.

While each employer sets its own hiring policies, these fields are where OUI convictions tend to have the greatest impact.

Timing and Severity: Key Factors Employers Consider

Employers often look at more than just the presence of a conviction—they evaluate when the offense occurred, whether it was an isolated incident, and if it involved aggravating factors.

• Recency: A recent OUI (within the last 1–3 years) is more likely to impact hiring than an older offense. Over time, many employers may view the conviction as less significant—particularly if the applicant has maintained a clean record since.
• Repeat Offenses: Individuals with multiple OUI convictions may face greater challenges. Repeat offenses raise concerns about patterned behavior, which employers may weigh more heavily.
• Felony vs. Misdemeanor: While most first-time OUIs in Maine are misdemeanors, those involving injuries, minors in the vehicle, or very high blood alcohol levels may be charged as felonies. Felony convictions carry a greater employment impact.
• Rehabilitation and Explanation: Some employers offer applicants the chance to explain past offenses. A thoughtful, honest explanation that demonstrates responsibility and change may offset the negative impression of a prior conviction.

Disclosure Requirements During the Hiring Process

Many job applications include questions about criminal convictions. In Maine, if asked, applicants are generally required to truthfully disclose prior OUI convictions unless the application specifically excludes misdemeanors.

Failure to disclose a conviction when directly asked can lead to disqualification, even if the offense itself wouldn’t have prevented hiring. Honesty and transparency are usually the best approach, particularly when accompanied by a brief, professional explanation.

Applicants should avoid over-explaining or appearing defensive. A concise response that acknowledges the conviction and emphasizes rehabilitation, responsibility, and readiness for the role can be effective.

Professional Licensing Considerations in Maine

For licensed professions in Maine—such as nurses, teachers, real estate agents, or commercial drivers—a prior OUI may influence how licensing boards evaluate an application. Most boards require disclosure of criminal convictions and may conduct their own background checks.

A single misdemeanor OUI may not automatically block someone from obtaining or renewing a license, but it can:

• Delay the approval process
• Trigger a formal review
• Require additional documentation or explanation

Boards may request character references, proof of rehabilitation, or evidence of substance abuse treatment (if applicable). In some cases, probationary licensing or additional conditions may be applied.

It’s important for applicants to be proactive and comply with all disclosure rules. Trying to conceal or omit a conviction is more likely to result in denial or disciplinary action.

What Employers in Maine Can and Can’t Do

While employers can consider criminal records as part of the hiring process, they are also subject to federal and state laws that protect against unfair discrimination. In Maine:

• Employers must get consent before conducting a background check.
• They may not use arrest records alone (without conviction) as a basis for rejection in most cases.
• If a job offer is revoked based on background check results, the employer must follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which includes a notice and dispute process.

These protections don’t prevent employers from considering an OUI, but they do require a fair and transparent process when doing so.

FAQ: OUI and Employment in Maine

Will a single OUI conviction stop me from getting a job?
Not necessarily. Many employers consider the nature and timing of the offense. For non-driving roles, a single misdemeanor may not be a disqualifier.

Should I disclose an OUI on job applications?
If the application asks about criminal convictions and includes misdemeanors, you should answer truthfully. Lying or omitting the conviction can lead to disqualification.

How long will an OUI affect my job prospects?
OUI convictions remain on your record permanently in Maine. However, their impact often diminishes over time, especially after 3–5 years of clean behavior.

Do employers check driving records too?
Yes—especially for roles involving driving. Your OUI will appear on a Maine driving record and may influence insurance eligibility or job offers.

Can I get a professional license in Maine after an OUI?
Yes, but you may face additional review. Most boards require disclosure and may evaluate your case individually.

Conclusion

An OUI conviction in Maine can affect employment—particularly in roles involving driving, public safety, or professional licensing. Because the conviction remains visible on both criminal and driving records, it may come up in background checks and influence how employers evaluate your application. However, many factors—such as time since the offense and the nature of the job—can shape the outcome.

For more information on how a past OUI may affect job prospects and licensing, visit our detailed DUI Records and Long Term Impact guide. To dive deeper into this specific topic, explore the mini-guide on Employment and Professional Impact of a DUI.

In Maine, impaired driving is classified as Operating Under the Influence (OUI) rather than DUI. When someone is convicted of an OUI, one of the most important questions they often have is whether that conviction will show up on a background check—especially when applying for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.

This blog post explains exactly how OUI convictions are recorded and whether they appear during different types of background checks conducted in Maine. We’ll break down the difference between driving records and criminal records, who can access them, and what types of checks are most likely to uncover an OUI. Whether you’re applying for a new job or simply want to know what information others might see, this guide is designed to clarify how OUIs are reported and retained in Maine’s systems.

While background checks vary by purpose and depth, OUI convictions are very likely to appear on many types of reports. Understanding where your record shows up—and how long it remains visible—can help you navigate post-conviction challenges with greater clarity.

OUI Convictions as Part of Your Criminal Record

In Maine, an OUI conviction is a criminal offense. Most first-time OUIs are classified as Class D misdemeanors, though more serious cases may be charged as felonies. Regardless of classification, any conviction is added to your criminal record and becomes part of the permanent database maintained by the state.

Criminal background checks—especially those conducted by employers, licensing boards, or government agencies—will generally include OUI convictions. These checks pull data from court records, law enforcement databases, and national criminal registries. Once the conviction is entered into the system, there is no automatic expiration or removal over time.

In short, if you’ve been convicted of an OUI in Maine, that record will almost certainly appear in a standard criminal background check, unless a rare pardon has been granted (and even then, it may still be visible).

Will an OUI Show Up on an Employment Background Check?

Yes. In most cases, an OUI conviction will show up on an employment background check in Maine. The level of detail depends on how comprehensive the employer’s background screening is, but most professional checks will include both criminal history and driving records.

Employers hiring for roles involving driving, safety-sensitive tasks, or access to vulnerable populations (such as children, patients, or the elderly) are especially likely to review this type of information. Depending on company policy, an OUI conviction could impact your eligibility, particularly if the job involves operating a vehicle or equipment.

Some employers use third-party screening services that report both criminal and motor vehicle records. In these cases, both the criminal conviction and any related license suspension or BMV actions could appear on the report.

Housing, Volunteer, and Financial Background Checks

OUI convictions don’t just impact employment. In Maine, landlords, volunteer organizations, and even insurance providers may conduct background checks that reveal criminal offenses.

• Landlords: Rental applications often include criminal background checks. While a single OUI may not disqualify someone outright, it may raise concerns for property managers—especially if other charges appear alongside it.
• Volunteer Programs: Organizations that work with children, seniors, or at-risk groups typically conduct criminal background screenings. An OUI, even if years old, may lead to additional scrutiny or disqualification.
• Financial Institutions: Some financial institutions or insurers access public records as part of their risk assessment. While not always comprehensive, these checks may include court records that list an OUI conviction.

In all of these cases, the continued visibility of an OUI conviction can affect how a person is evaluated—even years after the incident.

Driving Record Checks and What They Show

In addition to criminal records, Maine maintains driving records through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). An OUI conviction is automatically recorded on a person’s official driving record, which is distinct from a criminal record but still important for background evaluations.

Employers hiring for driving-related roles often request Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs), which detail traffic violations, suspensions, and OUI convictions. These records are especially relevant for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders or any position that requires regular vehicle use.

Maine’s driving record system retains OUI convictions permanently, although only offenses within the past 10 years are typically used to enhance sentencing for future charges. However, for background checks, the presence of the conviction may still be noted regardless of its age.

Is There Any Way to Hide or Remove the Conviction?

Maine does not allow expungement or sealing of adult criminal convictions. That means once an OUI conviction is on your record, it cannot be erased through a legal process. There is no expungement law for adults in Maine, and criminal records remain accessible to employers, government agencies, and the public unless a very limited gubernatorial pardon is granted.

Even in the event of a pardon, the original conviction usually remains visible—it is simply marked as “pardoned.” The same is true for driving records. Maine does not offer any process for removing or hiding an OUI conviction from the BMV system.

This long-term visibility means that even old OUIs may continue to appear on background checks long after the legal penalties have ended.

When an OUI May Not Show Up

There are limited situations where an OUI might not appear in a background check:

• If charges were dismissed or you were acquitted, some records may be harder to find—but they are not automatically removed.
• Very basic background checks, such as those used for entry-level jobs without security or safety responsibilities, may not go deep enough to pull full criminal history.
• If the offense occurred many years ago, some private databases may have outdated or incomplete information, although official sources will still show it.

However, none of these scenarios guarantee privacy. Anyone seeking to conceal a past OUI conviction should assume it will be discoverable in most legitimate checks.

FAQ: OUI and Background Checks in Maine

Will an OUI show up in a background check for a job?
Yes. An OUI conviction will appear in most criminal background checks, especially for jobs involving driving or safety-sensitive roles.

Do landlords see OUI convictions on rental applications?
They can. Many landlords run background checks that include criminal records. A visible OUI may affect rental decisions.

Can you expunge an OUI in Maine to remove it from checks?
No. Maine does not allow expungement or sealing of adult OUI convictions. The offense remains on your record permanently.

Do driving record checks show OUIs?
Yes. An OUI is also recorded on your Maine driving record and can be seen in employer or agency checks involving MVRs.

What’s the difference between a criminal background check and a driving record check?
Criminal checks pull court and law enforcement records. Driving record checks show traffic violations, suspensions, and license actions. OUI appears on both.

Conclusion

In Maine, an OUI conviction will almost always show up on background checks—whether for employment, housing, volunteering, or licensing. Because the state does not offer expungement or sealing, the record remains permanently visible in both criminal and driving databases. For those with a past OUI, this long-term visibility may influence future opportunities and screening outcomes.

For more on how impaired driving records affect your long-term legal and personal standing, explore our DUI Records and Long Term Impact resource. To understand how OUI convictions specifically appear on screenings, visit our detailed guide on How DUI Convictions Appear on Background Checks.

When someone is convicted of an impaired driving offense in Maine—officially referred to as Operating Under the Influence (OUI)—the record of that offense can follow them for years. One of the most common questions after a conviction is whether the charge can be expunged or sealed to reduce its long-term impact. In many states, limited record-clearing options exist. But Maine has its own approach to criminal records, and it’s important to understand how the system works.

This post will walk through whether OUIs can be removed from a person’s criminal record or driving record in Maine, what alternatives exist, and what people should know about long-term visibility. Unlike some states with structured expungement processes, Maine has strict limitations on record clearing. The outcome for most people convicted of OUI is that the record remains visible for the foreseeable future.

For individuals seeking a fresh start after an OUI conviction, understanding what’s possible—and what isn’t—is essential. This post explains the legal and administrative framework around sealing and expungement in Maine and the broader implications for those living with an OUI on their record.

Does Maine Allow Expungement for OUI Convictions?

The short answer is no—Maine does not allow expungement of adult criminal convictions, including OUI. Unlike some states that provide a legal mechanism to erase or seal past offenses, Maine maintains a permanent criminal record for adult convictions. Once a person is found guilty of an OUI, that offense becomes a lasting part of their legal history.

This means that even years after serving penalties, completing probation, and returning to everyday life, the conviction still remains in court records and criminal databases. Expungement is not currently an available remedy under Maine law for individuals with an OUI conviction, regardless of whether it was a first offense or involved mitigating circumstances.

This legal structure reflects the state’s approach to transparency and accountability in criminal justice. While it can pose long-term challenges for individuals, it is considered part of maintaining public access to criminal histories.

What About Record Sealing or Restricting Access?

In some states, record sealing is used as an alternative to expungement. Sealed records remain in existence but are made inaccessible to most employers, landlords, and agencies. However, Maine does not have a general record sealing law for adult criminal cases, including OUI.

There are limited exceptions, primarily for juvenile records or cases that were dismissed without conviction. If someone was charged with OUI but later acquitted or had the case dropped, they may be able to request that court records be updated to reflect the outcome. But this is not the same as sealing or removing a conviction.

For adults convicted of OUI, there is currently no process to request that the record be hidden or sealed from background checks. The conviction remains fully visible in court systems, law enforcement databases, and any public or private records that rely on criminal justice data.

Does a Pardon Erase an OUI Conviction in Maine?

The only potential pathway for some form of relief in Maine is through a gubernatorial pardon. A pardon is a formal declaration of forgiveness issued by the Governor of Maine. However, even this does not erase the conviction—it merely recognizes that the individual has been rehabilitated.

Pardoned offenses still remain on your criminal record, though they may be noted as “pardoned” in official documents. A pardon does not remove the conviction from public databases or from the records maintained by the courts, law enforcement, or the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

The process for applying for a pardon is lengthy and selective. Applicants typically must wait several years after completing all sentence requirements and must demonstrate a clean post-conviction record and positive community contributions. Even then, approval is rare and not guaranteed.

OUI Records and Maine’s Driving Record Policies

Even though the focus of expungement discussions is often on criminal records, driving records also play a role in the long-term impact of an OUI conviction. In Maine, the BMV keeps a permanent driving record, and OUI convictions become a part of that file.

Just like the criminal record, the driving record does not have a clearing mechanism for OUI offenses. While the legal lookback period for sentencing purposes is 10 years, the offense remains visible to law enforcement, the courts, and certain employers indefinitely.

This affects insurance rates, future legal penalties for repeat offenses, and eligibility for commercial driving jobs. The inability to remove OUI offenses from the driving record further underscores the lasting nature of these convictions in Maine.

Implications of a Permanent OUI Record

Because an OUI conviction in Maine cannot be expunged or sealed, it can continue to impact multiple areas of life:

• Employment: Jobs that involve driving, safety-sensitive roles, or government positions often include criminal background checks. An OUI can raise concerns, especially if the employer has strict hiring policies.
• Housing: Some landlords conduct background screenings that include criminal records. A visible OUI may influence their decision, even if the offense occurred many years ago.
• Professional Licensing: Licensing boards in fields like healthcare, education, or transportation may factor in a past OUI when evaluating applications.
• Insurance: Elevated auto insurance rates may persist for years after an OUI and are often tied to the information maintained on the driving record.

Without access to expungement or sealing, these long-term effects become part of the reality for anyone with an OUI conviction in Maine.

Are There Any Efforts to Change Maine’s Expungement Laws?

There have been occasional legislative discussions in Maine about reforming the state’s approach to criminal records, but as of now, no laws have been passed to allow broad expungement or sealing for adult convictions. Reform efforts tend to focus on specific populations, such as nonviolent offenders or low-level drug crimes, and do not currently include OUI.

Until any future legal changes occur, individuals with OUI convictions in Maine must operate under the assumption that their record will remain visible indefinitely and cannot be removed through expungement or sealing.

Legal professionals and advocacy organizations continue to raise awareness about the impact of permanent records, but changes—if they come—are likely to be gradual and narrow in scope.

FAQ: OUI Expungement and Record Sealing in Maine

Can I expunge an OUI conviction in Maine?
No. Maine does not allow expungement of adult criminal convictions, including OUI.

Is there a way to seal my OUI record?
No. Maine does not offer a process for sealing adult OUI convictions. The record remains public and visible.

What about getting a pardon?
You can apply for a gubernatorial pardon, but it does not remove the conviction from your record. It only indicates rehabilitation.

Can I remove an OUI from my driving record?
No. OUI convictions remain on your Maine driving record permanently. There is no removal process.

Are there any upcoming laws that could change this?
There have been discussions, but no current laws allow for expungement or sealing of OUI convictions in Maine.

Conclusion

In Maine, an OUI conviction cannot be expunged or sealed, and there is no legal mechanism to remove it from either your criminal or driving record. The offense remains permanently visible and may continue to affect employment, housing, insurance, and legal matters for years to come. While a pardon may offer some relief, it does not erase the conviction.

To better understand how these long-term record impacts work, visit the DUI Records and Long Term Impact pillar page. For more detail about how long impaired driving convictions remain visible, check out our guide on How Long a DUI Stays on Your Record.

In Maine, impaired driving is classified as Operating Under the Influence (OUI) rather than DUI. When someone is convicted of an OUI, the effects are felt immediately—but what about the long-term consequences, particularly on a person’s driving record? This is a common concern for Maine drivers trying to understand the full impact of an OUI beyond fines and court appearances.

This blog post explores how long an OUI remains on a driver’s record in Maine and what that means for future traffic stops, insurance policies, and legal situations. Many people are surprised to learn that an OUI can stay on record far longer than expected, and in some cases, indefinitely. Knowing how driving records are maintained, who can access them, and how they’re used is essential for understanding the long-term footprint of a conviction.

Whether you’re dealing with a current OUI, have one in your past, or simply want to know more about how Maine handles these records, this guide offers clear, neutral information. We’ll explain what the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) tracks, how insurers and authorities use that data, and why it matters years down the line.

How the Maine BMV Handles OUI Convictions

In Maine, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) keeps a detailed record of all licensed drivers and their driving histories. When a driver is convicted of an OUI, that conviction is entered into their official driving record and becomes part of the documented history maintained by the BMV.

For OUI offenses, Maine law enforces a 10-year “lookback” period, which is the time during which a prior offense can be used to enhance penalties for a new offense. However, even after the 10-year mark, the original OUI conviction doesn’t just disappear from the driving record. It may no longer count toward repeat-offense sentencing, but it may still remain visible to the BMV, law enforcement, and other entities with access to driving records.

The BMV’s records are primarily used for legal and administrative purposes, including license suspensions, reinstatements, and future legal actions. The lasting presence of an OUI on your driving record can influence how authorities treat you in subsequent traffic-related matters.

How Long Does an OUI Stay on Your Driving Record in Maine?

The official answer is that an OUI conviction stays on your driving record for life in Maine, but with a 10-year legal relevance period. This 10-year period is used for determining penalties for any subsequent OUI offenses. If another OUI occurs within this period, it will be treated as a second or repeat offense, leading to stricter penalties.

After those 10 years, a previous OUI will typically no longer be counted against you for sentencing purposes. However, the record itself is still retained by the BMV and is visible to relevant parties such as law enforcement, courts, and certain government agencies. In some cases, insurers or employers who check your motor vehicle report (MVR) may also be able to see the conviction, depending on how long their records go back.

This means that while the legal consequences of the OUI might lessen after 10 years, the offense itself doesn’t vanish from your record entirely.

Insurance Implications of OUI on a Driving Record

Your driving record plays a major role in how car insurance companies assess your risk. In Maine, an OUI conviction leads to an immediate and often substantial increase in insurance premiums. Insurers typically view impaired driving as a high-risk behavior, and that status can affect your rates for several years.

Most insurance companies in Maine keep OUI-related surcharges in place for three to five years, though some may consider the offense relevant for even longer. The exact time frame varies by insurer, but as long as the OUI remains on your driving record, it can be used to justify higher premiums.

In addition, drivers convicted of OUI in Maine are often required to obtain SR-22 insurance, a form of high-risk auto insurance certification. This requirement usually lasts for three years and must be maintained without interruption. If the SR-22 lapses or is canceled early, the clock resets, potentially prolonging the requirement.

Driving Record Visibility for Employers and Agencies

While your criminal record is separate from your driving record, many employers—especially those hiring for roles involving driving—will request a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) as part of the hiring process. In Maine, this report will include OUI convictions recorded by the BMV.

Employers evaluating job applicants for delivery services, transportation roles, or any position requiring the operation of a company vehicle may be especially focused on your driving history. A past OUI can be viewed as a risk factor, even if it occurred several years prior.

Government agencies or licensing bodies may also access your driving record during background checks for permits, professional licenses, or other legal matters. Although an older OUI may carry less weight, its continued presence on the record can still raise questions or require further explanation.

Repeat Offenses and the Role of the Driving Record

One of the most important roles your driving record plays in Maine is in determining whether a new OUI offense is classified as a first offense or a repeat offense. The state uses a 10-year lookback period for this determination. If you are convicted of another OUI within that period, it is treated as a second (or higher) offense with significantly harsher penalties.

This includes longer license suspensions, higher fines, mandatory minimum jail sentences, and requirements for ignition interlock devices. All of these consequences are based on the content of your BMV-maintained driving record, which acts as the legal history used by courts and the Department of Public Safety.

This lookback period ensures that past behavior remains relevant to the legal system for a significant amount of time—even if the individual has remained offense-free for several years.

Can You Remove an OUI from Your Driving Record in Maine?

Maine does not provide a legal mechanism for removing or expunging an OUI from your driving record. The conviction remains part of your BMV file, and there is no formal process for erasing or hiding the offense once it has been recorded.

Unlike criminal record expungement, which is limited and rarely granted even for eligible offenses, the driving record system is designed for administrative accuracy and public safety. Once the OUI is entered, it remains a permanent record—even if its legal weight for sentencing purposes fades over time.

This policy reflects Maine’s strong stance on impaired driving and its focus on maintaining accurate records for both public safety and legal enforcement.

FAQ: OUI and Driving Records in Maine

How long does an OUI stay on my driving record in Maine?
An OUI conviction remains on your driving record for life, but is typically considered legally relevant for 10 years when determining repeat offenses.

Will insurance companies see my OUI after 10 years?
Most insurers focus on the past three to five years, but some may look further back depending on company policy. The record itself is still available.

Can an OUI be expunged from a Maine driving record?
No. Maine does not allow expungement of OUI convictions from driving records. The information remains in the BMV database permanently.

Does a driving record affect employment?
Yes, particularly for jobs that involve driving or require a clean motor vehicle record. Employers may consider past OUI offenses during hiring.

What’s the difference between the driving record and criminal record?
Your driving record tracks violations and license actions with the BMV, while your criminal record contains court-related offenses. OUI appears on both.

Conclusion

An OUI conviction in Maine stays on your driving record permanently, even though its relevance for legal penalties generally lasts 10 years. This long-term presence can affect insurance rates, job applications, and future legal outcomes. Maine does not offer record-clearing options for driving records, making it important to understand how past offenses continue to shape administrative and legal experiences.

To explore how impaired driving convictions impact long-term records in more detail, visit our DUI Records and Long Term Impact page. For specific insights on record duration and what stays visible over time, check out the guide on How Long a DUI Stays on Your Record.