The State of Maine is discontinuing Chickadee license plates. As of May 1, 2025, the new Pine Tree (or alternative "No Tree") general plates will be issued. If you currently have a Chickadee license plate, you will receive new plates with a new plate number when you renew your registration. You can also choose to reserve your current plate number in advance (see "Reserve Your Plate Number" below).
RENEW YOUR REGISTRATION ONLINE: Whether you currently have a Chickadee plate or not, renew your registration online during your regular registration time frame (beginning 60 days before your registration expires). If you currently have Chickadee plates, your new plates will be mailed to you. To renew online, visit: bit.ly/ME-BMV-Rapid-Renewal
IF RENEWING YOUR REGISTRATION AT CITY HALL: South Portland residents can renew their car registration during their regular registration time frame (beginning 60 days before the registration expires) at City Hall during regular business hours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 7:30-5 and Tuesday 9-6. Please note: Wait times at the City Hall Treasury Office may be longer while Chickadee plates are phased out. We suggest that you take advantage of the online renewal option.
RESERVE YOUR PLATE NUMBER: If you have a Chickadee plate and want to retain your current plate number so it doesn't change when you renew your registration, visit bit.ly/ME-BMV-Plate-Reservation to reserve your plates (a $25 fee applies). Reserved plates will be mailed to you when you renew your registration. If you have questions about reserving your plate number, please call the State at 207-624-9000 Ext. 52149 or email platereserve.bmv@maine.gov.
For answers to FAQs, visit: https://apps1.web.maine.gov/online/bmv/rapid-renewal/faq-reservation.html
If you have a question for the City of South Portland Treasury Office, call (207) 767-7612 or email finance@southportland.gov. Please be aware that response times are longer than usual due to a high volume of calls and emails.