An antique car is defined as any motor vehicle which is more than 25 years old (R.I.G.L. §31-1-3).

 

If a vehicle is more than 25 years old, it can be registered with an antique plate. An inspection is not required with this plate, although restrictions do apply to how the vehicle can be used when displaying the antique plate. The vehicle can be used solely for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades, and other functions of public interest, but not primarily for the transportation of passengers or goods over any public highway. The cost for registering a vehicle with an antique plate is $6.50 (R.I.G.L. §31-6-1 (a)(16)).

 

If the vehicle is to be driven for every day use, the vehicle can also be registered with the standard plates in addition to the antique plate. This is called a dual registration. In this case, the vehicle must meet the requirements of state inspection. The vehicle can be inspected at any licensed state inspection facility and the vehicle will be exempt from an emissions inspection. The registration fee is calculated based on the method normally used to calculate registration fees as set forth in R.I.G.L. §31-6-1.

 

The following must be presented in order to register the vehicle:

• completed TR-1 form
• proof of valid insurance
• valid identification
• bill of sale

Additionally, if the vehicle was purchased through a private sale, proof of prior registration or a title must also be presented.

 

The sales tax for antique vehicles, if the vehicle was purchased through a private sale, is calculated based on the book value as found in the Cars of Particular Interest (CPI) guide published by National Auto Research. If purchased through a licensed Rhode Island dealer, the sales tax is calculated based on the sale price, which is taken from the bill of sale.