Maine Launches Online Marine Licensing Service

With Maine's newest e-government service, the state's nearly 7,000 lobster and crab harvesters no longer have to lick stamps or wait in lines at government offices to renew their marine licenses. The Maine Department of Marine Resources recently introduced its new online Maine Marine Licensing Service, which is available at the state's official Web site.

Both commercial and noncommercial lobster and crab harvester licensees may choose to renew their licenses instantly over the Internet. The online service is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week during the 2004 renewal period, which runs through December 31, 2004.

"We are delighted to be providing a service alternative to Maine's licensed fishermen," said Gilbert Bilodeau, director at the Department of Marine Resources. "We hope that around the clock availability and Internet accessibility will assist fishermen by bringing ease and convenience to the renewal process."

License holders only need to provide basic identifying information and a valid credit card. Visa and MasterCard payments are accepted through Maine.gov's secure payment server to ensure the security and privacy of personal information.

Maine's lobster and crab harvesters are required to renew their licenses annually, and the online service is currently available just to Maine residents. Licenses may still be renewed by using traditional direct mail or by visiting the Department of Marine Resources office in Hallowell.