Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap has warned consumers about websites claiming to provide new driver’s licenses and driver’s license renewals.

These websites charge customers, but do not actually issue credentials. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has received complaints recently about a company called Drivers-Licenses.org.

The company implies that a credential can be ordered through the website for a fee; however, once payment is made the customer is simply directed to the BMV website.

A new Maine driver’s license can only be obtained through the BMV at its various offices and mobile units or through AAA New England locations. A complete listing of BMV locations can be found at www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/locations.

“It’s very important that people know the only valid website for renewing a Maine driver’s license is www.maine.gov/online/bmv/dlr and the service is only available to customers who have already established proof of residency and legal presence,” said Dunlap. “Some of these sites may look like they are affiliated with state government; however, they usually have a disclaimer somewhere on the page noting that they are privately owned and are not operated by any government agency.”

If you believe you have been a victim of a driver license scam, please contact the BMV Investigations Unit at 207-624-9000, extension 52144 or visit the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection website at www.maine.gov/ag/consumer.