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Rhode Island Drivers License Guide
Rhode IslandDrivers License Guide
Bonus
Features
24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits
24-Hour Towing Service
24-Hour Mechanical First Aid
24-Hour Tire Change Service
Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.
Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.
Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.
Congratulations on your 60 day membership to our Roadside Assistance.When out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.
Rental Car Discounts
24-Hour Lost Key Service
24-Hour Emergency Delivery
24-Hour Emergency Battery Service
Map Routing Service
Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.
If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.
A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.
Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.
We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.
Theft And Hit & Run Protection
A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.
Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.
*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.
Congratulations!Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online
Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you need to start your 60-day Roadside Assistance membership.
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ContentsTable of
11
Numbers
4
Starting the Journey
Getting Your Rhode Island License
Replacing Your License
Official Forms
DMV Hours and Locations
Getting a Rhode Island ID Card
Starting the Journey
Updating Your License Information
Renewing Your License
Reinstating Your Driver’s License
Vehicle Safety Tips
6
11
13
16
20
21
23
24
28
29
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Starting the Journey
Welcome to the world of driving in Rhode Island! Obtaining your license is one of the most gratifying moments in your life. Driving independently is an exciting experience, but before you start getting behind the wheel on your own, you have to go through a process.
Our purpose for this guide is to make sure you get to through it with as little stress or complications as possible. Getting your driver’s license in Rhode Island is a smooth sailing process that only requires you to slightly prepare before embarking on the adventure. That is where we come in. We are here to help you know exactly what you need. You will be required to hold different permits and licenses before you get your full privilege Rhode Island driver’s license. So, let’s get rolling!
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TEEN DRIVERS If you’re a teenager on the brink of entering adulthood, chances are that you’re currently dreaming of obtaining your driver’s license. Well, we are here to help you make that dream true! We will outline each step for moving towards obtaining your license and help you better understand each procedure you must complete.
Did you know that the leading cause of death for young adults ages 15 through 18 is vehicle crashes? That’s because teenagers are inexperienced drivers who tend to speed more and driver recklessly than older drivers. To avoid a spike in car crashes from teen drivers, Rhode Island implemented the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program to improve teen driving laws, with the aim of reducing traffic crashes and fatalities involving young drivers. Therefore, if you are under 18 years of age, you need to complete the GDL process to freely drive.
Be at least 16 years old.
Have completed a 33-hour driving education course.
Have passed the computerized knowledge test.
Visit a DMV office.
Present a birth certificate or proof of identity, your Social Security Card and proof of residency. Check the document checklist.
1- Limited Instructional Permit
With this permit, you can practice driving while being supervised by a licensed driver. It’s your first step to obtain your independent driving privileges and you must hold it for six months before continuing with the process.
To obtain one you have to:
If you are a parent, review the Parent’s Supervised Driving Guide to find information and resources to help your teen through this process.
Tip
Present the certificate of completion of the approved 33-hour driver education course.
Present the completed and signed License/ID/Permit Application.
Your parent, legal guardian, foster parent or adult spouse must accompany you to the DMV. This person must be qualified to be a supervising driver.
Pass the vision test.
Pay the fee(s).
With a learner’s permit you may practice with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age and has held the license for at least five years. This person must be always sitting next to you. All passengers must wear a seat belt.
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3- Full Operator License
Did you complete the first two levels of the GDL? Then, you are ready to get your full license! With this license, you will not be restricted to drive during certain times or with a limited amount of passengers.
To apply you need to have already completed the two previous steps of the GDL process. We will discuss this license in detail in the Getting your First Rhode Island License section. If you are already 18 and never completed the GDL, you may apply for a full license without meeting the aforementioned requirements.
Driving Education
When you are applying for your first Rhode Island driver’s license, you must first complete a 33-hour driver education course approved by the DMV. To enroll in an approved class, contact the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) at 825-1214 or at www.ccri.edu.
Not have been convicted in the last six months.
Restrictions
While holding your provisional license:
Visit a DMV office.
Have held the limited instructional permit for at least six months.
Have your parent or legal guardian sign a written statement that proves you completed a minimum of 50 hours of behind-the wheel driving experience with a supervising driver. At least 10 of the hours must be at night.
Have passed the driving test.
2- Limited Provisional License
With this license you will have more freedom as well as responsibility to drive while you prepare for the full operator’s license. You must hold this license for 12 months or until you turn 17 and a half years of age before applying for your license. Additionally, in order to receive your limited provisional license, you must:
You may not drive alone between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
You may drive at any time if you are accompanied by a supervising driver.
You may drive at any time if you are driving to or from work or a volunteer activity.
During the first 12 months, you cannot carry more than one passenger under 21 years of age unless it is an immediate family member.
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Study the Rhode Island Driving Manual.
Take and pass the knowledge exam.
Visit the Cranston DMV Headquarters.
Present a complete License/ID/Permit Application.
Comply with the documentation requirements.
Pay the fee.
Once you hold your instruction permit, you may practice for your road test and then apply for your driver’s license.
ALL DRIVERS Remember that the roads aren’t always safe. Therefore, it is in your best interest to fully prepare for whatever may be on your way before you begin driving. When you become a driver, you not only take on the responsibility for your safety, but also for the safety of your passengers, vehicles around you, and pedestrians. Consequently, in order to best prepare yourself for that huge responsibility, you should first hold a learner’s permit to practice and enhance your driving skills. If you are already 18 years of age and did not go through the GDL process, you must hold an instruction permit before applying for the full license. In addition, regardless of your age, you must pass the vision, knowledge and road skills tests before applying for a license. Let’s review them!
Instruction Permit (18 or older)
If you are 18 or older and you have never been issued a license or it has been expired for over five years, you must first obtain an instruction permit to practice your driving skills before applying for your full operator license. To apply you must:
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Vision Test
The vision tests consist of an eye screening that will determine if your vision acuity meets the standards for safe driving. The standard is 20/40 with or without corrective lenses. If you fail the test, the DMV will provide you with a vision report which must be completed by vision specialist of your choice. If the report indicates that you need corrective lenses, your license will indicate that you have a “01” restriction. If your vision is corrected with a laser surgery, you must visit a DMV office and pass the vision screening without glasses for your restriction to be removed.
Knowledge Test
You must also take and pass a knowledge written test in which you will prove your understanding of the traffic signs and signals, the laws related to driving, and the safe driving practices. The test consists of multiple choice questions and you have 90 minutes to answer it. The questions of the test are taken from the Rhode Island Driver’s Guide.
Road Test
Once you pass the other two tests, you need to take and pass a driving exam before getting your driver license. All first-time applicants are required to take it, regardless of their age. This test will evaluate you driving skills and your ability to control a vehicle by asking you to perform some driving tasks and maneuvers.
Study the vocabulary of the road test to understand the phrases you will hear during the exam.
Tip
The vehicle you use to take the test must be in good and safe driving condition and have a valid registration and plate. In addition, the owner must be present. Otherwise, you must present a notarized statement from the owner giving you permission. Use the Road Test Checklist to determine which documents you must present to take your road test.
Limited Instructional Permit:
Limited Provisional License:
Instruction Permit (18 or older)
Road Test:
$11.50
$23.50
$6.50
$26.50
Fees
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If you completed the GDL, you are now ready to obtain your full operator license! If you are 18 or older and have never held a license, you are part of this group too. New Rhode Island resident? You will also find all the information that you need to get your RI license in a special section just for you. Now it’s only a matter gathering some documents and following the steps that best fit your situation to officially hold that brand new license.
Getting yourFirst Rhode Island License
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CURRENT RHODE ISLAND RESIDENTS If you are 17 years of age or older and want to learn how to obtain an RI driver license, you have come to the right place. If you are under 17, please go to our Teen Drivers section. Getting a full license for the first time and once you completed the GDL is a very simple process if you follow these steps:
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
You must be at least 17 and a half years of age.
Comply with the documentation requirements.
You must not have been convicted for a moving violation nor had a safety belt infraction in the last six months.
Take and pass the road and vision tests before being issued a full license.
Comply with the documentation requirements.
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
Pay the fee.
You must have held your limited provisional license for at least 12 months.
If you are 18 or older and did not complete the GDL process, you must:
NEW RHODE ISLAND RESIDENTS New to Rhode Island? If you already hold an out-of-state license and just moved to Rhode Island, you must obtain a RI license. It is very important to make sure that you obtain a valid driver’s license if you want to drive within the state.
Applying is very easy if you follow some simple steps. So, let’s begin and you will have your license in no time! New residents are required to transfer their out-of-state driver’s license to Rhode Island within 30 days of moving. If you hold a current out-of-state license you must:
Pay the fee(s).
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
Comply with the documentation requirements.
Pay the fee(s).
If you have never held a license before, or it has been expired for more than one year, you must follow the same procedure as current Rhode Island residents.
New License (18 or older):
Transfer License:
$38.50
$43.50
Fees
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Although you have to go through quite a process to obtain your first driver’s license, you still have to renew it. If you are caught driving with an expired license, you can be fined, and your driving privileges may even be suspended if you have too many existing citations. Fortunately, renewing your license is a simple process. Learn more below.
Dates
Your driver’s license expires every five years or every two years if you are 75 of age or older. Your first license has a “two birthday” term. You will receive a renewal notice before your license expires. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must apply for a new license.
RenewingYour License
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HOW TO RENEW You may choose to renew online or in person.
Renew Online
To renew online you must have a credit card, your current license and a printer. Just follow these simple steps:
Go the renewal application.
Follow the instructions in screen.
Pay the fee and verify.
Print your receipt.
The DMV office will mail your license within 60 days.
Renew in Person
To renew in-person you must:
Complete, print and sign the License/ID/Permit Application.
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
Comply with the documentation requirements.
Pay the fee(s).
You will receive a temporary license and a permanent one will be mailed. If after 45 days you have not received it, call 401-462-5862.
Tip
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Out-of-state Renewal
If you are temporarily out-of-state for a valid reason such as school or the military and your driver’s license is about to expire, you may request a renewal by mail. Here’s what you need to do:
Complete, print and sign the Photo License Waiver Affidavit.
Comply with the documentation requirements.
Have a specialist complete the Eye Examination Card.
The fee must be in the form of a money order or check.
Send the forms, the documents and the fee to:
Division of Motor Vehicles Attn: License and Registration 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920
The license plate you receive will say “valid without photo” and will be valid only for two years. When you come back to RI, you may visit a DMV office and request a license with your picture.
Renew License (five-year term):
Renew License (71 or older):
Out of State Renewals-Photo Waiver:
$61.50
Prorated
$21.50
Fees
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UpdatingYour License Information
Since your driver’s license is typically your primary form of identification, it is important that you update it to reflect your major life events. This includes changing your name or changing your address. It may seem like a bothersome task, but updating your license information is actually pretty simple.
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Complete, print and sign the License/ID/Permit Application.
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
CHANGING YOUR NAME Whether you got married, divorced, or simply changed your name for other reasons, changing your name is a big step in your life. If you have officially changed your name, you are required to change your name on all of your identification documents and cards, including your driver’s license. However, you must make sure your name has legally been changed with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on your driver’s license. Once that process is complete, simply follow these steps:
Provide one document supporting your name change such as:
• Marriage license
• Divorce decree
• Court order
Surrender your current license.
Pay the fee.
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In Person
Complete and sign the License/ID/Permit Appli-cation.
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
Present your current driver’s license.
Pay the fee if you want a replacement license.
By Mail
Complete the address change form.
Download it and print it.
Submit it to:
Division of Motor Vehicles Attn: Address Change 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920
CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS In the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you notify the RI DMV for them to update the address on your driving record. Note that while your current address is updated in the DMV’s system, the DMV will not send you an updated driver’s license unless you specifically request one. Otherwise, your updated address will appear on your renewed license, once that time comes. You can complete this procedure online, by mail, or in person. Simply follows the steps provided below.
By law, you must notify the Rhode Island DMV of any change of address within 10 days.
Tip
Online
Visit the Address change application.
Provide all the required information.
Follow the instructions.
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CHANGING YOUR GENDER DESIGNA-TION In case you changed your gender, and you need your license to reflect your new gender designation, follow these steps:
Complete the first section of the Gender Designation Form.
Have your physician complete the second one.
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
Surrender your current license and present the form.
Pay the duplicate fee.
An updated or duplicate license both cost $26.50 at the time of processing. The DMV takes cash (if the transaction is done in person), money order, check, or credit card payment.
Fees
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In some cases, you may need to replace your license. If your license was lost, stolen, or significantly damaged, all you have to do is request a replacement from the DMV. You are even able to replace your license if you happen to be out of state when the incident occurred. To replace your driver’s license, simply follow the steps below.
ReplacingYour License
Complete, print and sign the License/ID/Permit Application.
Visit a DMV or AAA office (members).
Comply with the documentation requirements.
Pay the fee.
HOW TO REPLACE To replace your driver’s license, you must:
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The suspension or revocation of your driver license is the consequence of traffic violations or numerous offenses in your record. If your license is suspended or revoked, your driving privileges are removed, and you are not authorized to drive. To be able to drive again, you are required to reinstate your license if you are entitled to. So, try to not stress yourself out about the little stuff because that’s why we’re here. Instead, just take your time going through the process and information necessary to begin reinstating your Rhode Island license!
Now, what’s the difference between suspended and revoked? A suspension is a temporary removal of your driving privilege while revocation is the termination of it. If your license is suspended, you must wait for the suspension period to expire and then request a reinstatement. If it is revoked, you will have to apply for a new license.
To get your driving privilege back, you must complete a reinstatement process. The process will depend on your type of suspension. To know your reinstatement status and other restatement information, you may contact the suspensions department by calling at 401-462-0800. Call Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. A hearing officer will assist you based on your case and will tell you which fines you must pay to reinstate.
Once you reinstate your license, you must visit a DMV office with an identity document and proof of residence and your reinstatement notice.
ReinstatingYour Driver’s License
If you don’t know the status of your license, you may obtain a driving record.
Tip
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DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED AND UN-DER THE INFLUENCE (DWI AND DUI) In Rhode Island the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration (BAC):
.08 percent any age.
.02 percent if you are 21 years of age and younger.
If you are caught driving with a BAC of .08 percent or more—no matter how old you are—you will be charged with a DWI. If you are under 21 and you are caught driving with a BAC of .02 percent, but less than .08 percent, you will be charged with a DUI. In both cases, your license may be suspended or revoked. If you refuse to take the BAC test, your license will be suspended for at least six months and you may have to pay a fine.
Driving Record: $19.50
Fees
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If you are not able to obtain a driver’s license, or you are not a driver, you should consider getting a Rhode Island ID card instead. Having an ID card is essential for you to prove your identity when you visit the bank, travel or need someone to identify you. If you want to obtain your first Rhode Island ID card, you need to know the proper procedures and steps to take, and that is where we come in! We will guide you through the process in this section on how to obtain, replace, renew, and update your ID card so you will be well-prepared for all situations.
When it comes to obtaining your ID card, the process is identical to that of obtaining your driver’s license, except that you are not required to pass any driving or written test and the fees vary. In addition, you are able to get it any age.
If you would like to take a look at the steps to follow in order to obtain your ID card, please go to the Getting Your First Rhode Island License section.
Getting a Rhode Island ID Card
New State ID:
Renew State ID:
Duplicate State ID:
Update State ID:
New/Renew/Duplicate:
$26.50
$26.50
$26.50
$6.50
Free
Fees
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Before getting behind the wheel, it’s important that the vehicle is prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive.
Emergency KitOne of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include basic items such as water, extra batteries, rope, a first aid kid, matches, a whistle, etc. During winter months it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves, socks and a shovel.
Vehicle Safety Tips
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Winter DrivingOne of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter, especially if you live in an area where it snows. Therefore, it is best to consider these tips to drive safely during the winter.
Don’t Rush!
Roads are often covered in snow and ice after it snows. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for your appointment.
Do Not Panic If You Skid or Slip
In the case that your vehicle skids or slips while driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, all you need to do is apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.
Check Your Vehicle
Before you leave your house make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze, and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving; this prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive, or worse, flying off and hitting someone while in motion.
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Drinking and DrivingEvery year thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These events can be prevented; it only requires that you plan ahead of time by taking certain steps. Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If they also become intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. Never allow someone drunk to drive, instead take away their keys and call for alternative transportation.
If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving, such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, braking erratically or turning abruptly, call 9-1-1 and contact authorities immediately. Also make sure to avoid them on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until they are at a safe distance from your car.
Using Your PhoneDriving while using your cell phone is one of the most dangerous things you can do. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure you don’t text, use the internet on your phone, or receive calls while you drive to prevent accidents as best as possible.
Things to AvoidDriving isn’t always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be both an annoyance and dangerous to you while driving on the road. These things are often avoidable if you make sure to take the necessary steps towards preventing them, as well as stopping them after you discover them to be occurring.
Car Accidents
One way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive and will not cause you any problems. To do this, regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly, your tires are inflated and not worn out, and that the steering and suspensions are checked by a mechanic.
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Wasting Gas
If you drive often, start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. Saving on gas is something that is possible if you take a few steps towards ensuring you save some money in the long run.
Some of the ways that you can start saving gas are turning off the air conditioning, not leaving your engine running or speeding above 60 mph. These things are preventable and not necessary for you to drive, therefore you can quickly reduce the amount of gas you waste.
Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well-tuned, and that your octane level is the correct amount to your vehicle’s needs.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving and drivers are both things that should be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as aggressive tailgating, verbal or physical harassment towards another driver, or preventing another driver from merging or passing.
If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you do any of the above behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment, breathe, and continue moving.
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Official Forms
License/ID/Permit Application.
Gender Designation Form.
Address Change form.
Photo License Waiver Affidavit.
Eye Examination Card.
Veteran Designation on a License or Identification Card.
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DMVHours and Locations
There are several options available for you in case you need to visit or contact a driver license office. Find all the DMV and American Automobile Association (AAA) offices here. If you click on the plus sign on your selected location, you will find the address, phone number, office hours and the holidays they close on.
Have you ever visited the DMV and realized that you forgot a document? Save the trip, time and money by using the online services. Some transactions such as renewing your license, changing your address and getting your driving record can be processed online without the need of calling or visiting the DMV. Check it out here.
If you need to contact the DMV for any other purposes, you can visit their main office or mail them. Find the addresses below:
DMV Headquarters Division of Motor Vehicles 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920-3024
You may also contact them by calling to: 401-462-4368
Or use the phone numbers listed in here which are organized by department.
You can also submit your complaints, questions or concerns here.
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