RHODE ISLAND’S TITLE LAW HAS CHANGED ***Effective March 1, 2024*** The Rhode Island DMV will no longer be accepting photocopies, images, or electronic copies of titles. All new registration and/or new title transactions will now REQUIRE THE ORIGINAL TITLE to be submitted to the RI DMV at the time the transaction takes place. Your lienholder or leasing company can send the original title to the RI DMV, ATTN: Research Office, 600 New London Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920 or to you directly. We highly recommend that the title and other documents are sent with tracking information to enable customers and lienholders to know when the title was received. As long as your contact information (name, address, phone and e-mail) is included with the title, the RI DMV will contact you once your original title has been received so you can complete your transaction. Be advised that this process can take several weeks for the original title to be sent to the RI DMV. Please also be advised that the RI DMV cannot request a title from a lienholder or lease company. A VIN check is required for all transactions involving an Out-of-State title/vehicle. Reservations are required for all visits. PLEASE PLAN ACCORDINGLY. For more information on RI’s new title laws, and new requirements for registration and title transactions, CLICK HERE and scroll down.
Temporary Plates Rhode Island Temporary Plates are only issued to RI residents. We do not offer temporary plates for residents of other states who have purchased a vehicle in RI. Dealer Sale Temporary plates valid for 20 days are available from licensed RI New and Used Car Dealers. These plates are also offered by some Massachusetts dealerships for RI residents who purchase a vehicle. Please see your dealership for more information. Private Party Sale and Out of State Transfer Temporary plates valid for 5 days are available for RI residents who have purchased a vehicle with an Out of State title, or those customers new to RI who are transferring their residency here and hold a title from another state. Temporary plates are only available for vehicles that are eligible for a RI title, model year 2001 or newer. 5-Day Temporary Plates are available at any DMV Branch. Please bring the following: Application for Registration TR-1 PDF file, less than 1mbmegabytes Insurance Information (valid RI insurance) Title (title must be complete with signature in the case of a new purchase) Bill of Sale RI license or identification card, or Out of State license with proof of RI residency Please see the Plate Fee Schedule for current fees