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Maine driver license, 1915

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Maine driver license, 1915
NMAH, Transportation Collections

IN CONTEXT

This object appears in the following sections:


Americans Adopt the Auto: 		Americans Adopt the Auto — Licensing Cars and Drivers

RELATED OBJECTS
New York Chauffeur's License
New York Chauffeur's License


Driver's license from Maine
Currently on display
 From the Smithsonian Collection
This 1915 Maine driver's license was issued to William Folsom Merrill of Skowhegan Maine, and was issued in accordance with the provisions of a 1911 law. Unlike modern licenses, this one expired at the end of the calender year in which it was issued.
Physical Description
artifact. paper. with seal. Issued by the State of Maine, through the Office of the Secretary of State. Operator's license No. 16695, issued May 22, 1915, expiration date December 31, 1915.
Details
Date Made:
1915
Locations:
Maine
History

Early motorists were taught to drive by automobile salesmen, family and friends, or organizations like the YMCA. States required car registrations before they required licenses for drivers. Drivers licenses were issued by 39 states by 1935 and few required a test.


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