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Governor Donald L. CarcieriA Message From the Governor

Welcome to the roadways of Rhode Island. Although we are a small state, our streets and highways can be challenging. Many of today's roads evolved from colonial days and meander rather than follow straight lines. Whether we are traveling on narrow suburban streets or interstate highways we all share the road with fellow drivers and we are all responsible for our safety and the safety of others.

The State of Rhode Island has created laws to regulate driving behavior in order to provide a safe driving environment. Requirements for adults to wear seatbelts, to place children aged 5 or younger in appropriate car seats in the back seat of a vehicle, and to obey traffic lights and traffic signs are all part of this effort.

Another important safety element is the prohibition against drunk driving. You should know that state law now makes driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 a crime rather than a civil offense. Drunk driving by anyone of any age is a serious offense since it may easily endanger the lives of many people.

Following the rules of the road, with safety as the first concern, should enable all drivers to enjoy the privilege of driving in the Ocean State.

Best wishes,

Donald L. Carcieri
Governor

Driving in Rhode Island

Rhode Island state law requires you to obtain a Rhode Island driver's license and register your vehicle with the DMV within 30 days of becoming a resident.

  • To get your Rhode Island driver's license, you need to bring your current license, a valid Social Security card and one document showing proof of residency to the nearest DMV branch office. If your license is either current or has not expired over one (1) year, you can convert your license for a $31.50 fee. You must turn in your current license to the DMV. The first license will be valid for just under two years. After that, licenses are renewable for a five-year period. Minimum age to operate a motor vehicle in Rhode Island is 16-1/2.

  • To register your vehicle in Rhode Island, you must first bring the vehicle to your local police department along with proof of ownership and proof of residency for a VIN inspection. If your vehicle is more than 10 years old, this step is not necessary. You must then appear at a DMV branch office with the vehicles' title or copy of the title or proof of ownership, the VIN verification form that the police department will give you, proof of insurance and proof of residency. A registration for a passenger vehicle is determined by the weight per RIGL 31-6-1 and the title fee is $25.00 plus a $1.50 technology surcharge effective July 3, 2007.

  • Insurance is mandatory in Rhode Island. You must carry liability at the minimum and your insurance company must be licensed to do business in the State of Rhode Island. Check with your current insurance company to make sure they are licensed; if not, you will have to switch companies. For more information, contact the RI Department of Business Regulation.

  • Sales Tax on new and used vehicles is 7%. There is no state personal property tax, but property taxes assessed by individual cities and towns must be paid before renewal of registration can be obtained.

Selective Service

If you are between the ages of 18 - 25 and male, you must register for Selective Service. At the time your photo is taken, the DMV clerk will ask you a question regarding Selective Service in order to register you.