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.
Salvage Inspections A salvage vehicle is a vehicle that has been classified as a total loss by an insurance company and is now in the process of being repaired by a Rhode Island salvage rebuilder. Important Message Regarding Consumers and Owner Retained Vehicles After a Total Loss Salvage Inspection Instructions To process the Application for Salvage Inspection you must submit the following paperwork: Copies of all receipts for replaced parts and labor (VIN numbers must be listed on all receipts for parts, indicating where parts came from) A certified check or money order for $57.50, made payable to "DMV" A copy of the Salvage Title A Certificate of Salvage Repair Vehicle must be repaired by a Rhode Island licensed salvage rebuilder (no exceptions) Click here to download a list of licensed RI Salvage Rebuilders Original application completely filled out Photos of the vehicle showing all damages Copy of insurance appraisal Used parts list Please return application to Division of Motor Vehicles, Enforcement Office, 600 New London Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920-3024 Salvage Inspection Application PDF file, less than 1mbmegabytes At the time of your inspection, you will need to present the following paperwork: Positive Identification required (R.I. license or ID card) Properly assigned salvage title Vehicle must be completely restored All vehicles must bear a new RI State Inspection sticker All original paperwork and photos for the copies that were submitted with the application Missing Paperwork: If any paperwork requested is NOT presented at this time, a new appointment will be necessary, along with another certified check or money order for $57.50