Maine· State Reference
Maine Auctioneer
License Requirements
To become a licensed auctioneer in Maine, you must pass the Board of Licensing of Auctioneers' examination on Maine's auctioneering laws and rules, then submit a license application along with a $10,000 surety bond.
- License required: a valid auctioneer's license is required to engage in the business of auctioneering, advertise as an auctioneer, or advertise the sale of real, personal, or mixed property by auction (32 M.R.S.A. Section 285)
- Exam requirement: pass the Board's licensing examination, covering the Board's laws and rules
- Exam application: submit at least two weeks before your intended exam date
- License application: submitted after you pass the exam
- Surety bond: a $10,000 bond that remains in effect for the duration of the license term
- Application fee: $271 total, covering a $50 application fee, a $200 license fee, and a $21 criminal records check fee, in addition to the $150 exam fee
- Renewal cycle: licenses expire annually, with a $200 renewal fee and a $50 late fee after March 31
Step by Step Process
- Apply to take the exam. Submit your exam application at least two weeks before your intended exam date.
- Pass the Board's licensing examination. The exam covers Maine's auctioneering laws and rules specifically, not just general auction knowledge.
- Submit your license application. Include your $10,000 surety bond and any required certificates of good standing from other states where you are licensed.
- Pay the license fees and receive your license. Begin conducting auctions in compliance with Maine's specific conduct requirements.
Costs
| Step | Cost |
|---|---|
| Licensing examination | $150 |
| Application fee | $50 |
| License fee | $200 |
| Criminal records check fee | $21 |
| Surety bond | $10,000 bond, typical premium around $100 per year |
| Annual license renewal | $200 |
| Late renewal fee, after March 31 | $50 |
Fees are set by the state of Maine and are subject to change.
License Renewal
Maine auctioneer licenses expire annually. The renewal fee is $200, and a $50 late fee applies if you renew after March 31. If you are more than 90 days past expiration, you will need to reapply as a new applicant with full original documentation and fees.
Ready to become an auctioneer in Maine? Missouri Auction School's Maine Auctioneer License Course helps you prepare for the Board's licensing examination.
See our Maine course →Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an auctioneer license in Maine?
You will need to pass the Board's exam first, which requires submitting your exam application at least two weeks in advance, then submit your license application, surety bond, and any out of state good standing certificates. Build your timeline around the exam schedule.
Do I need a bond to get licensed in Maine?
Yes. Maine requires a $10,000 surety bond that must remain in effect for the full duration of your license term.
How often do I need to renew my Maine auctioneer license, and what happens if I am late?
Maine auctioneer licenses expire annually. The renewal fee is $200, and a $50 late fee applies after March 31. If you are more than 90 days past expiration, you will need to reapply as a new applicant with full original documentation and fees.