How to Get a Driver’s License in Rhode Island in 2025: A Complete Guide

Table Of Content

Get your Rhode Island learner's permit or driver's license with this easy-to-follow guide. Learn the steps you need to take, from gathering essential documents to scheduling your driving test. Discover permit requirements, how long you need to hold it, and what driving restrictions apply. Whether you're a teen or an adult, find out everything you need to know for a smooth licensing experience.

Understanding the Different Driver's License Classes in Rhode Island

Rhode Island driver's licenses are categorized into different classes based on the type of vehicle you plan to drive. 
Here’s a quick breakdown:

Class D License

• Who It's For: Most drivers, typically those who operate standard passenger vehicles
• What It Covers: This license allows you to operate regular cars, SUVs, and small trucks for personal use. It's the most common license class in Rhode Island.
• Examples:
  1. Passenger cars
  2. SUVs
  3. Pickup trucks

Class A CDL

• Who It's For: Commercial drivers operating large trucks and tractor-trailers
• What It Covers: A Class A CDL permits you to operate combination vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, with the towed vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds.
• Examples:
  1. Tractor-trailers
  2. Livestock carriers
  3. Flatbeds

Class B CDL

• Who It's For: Drivers of large, single vehicles, like buses or delivery trucks
• What It Covers: Allows you to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more or tow another vehicle under 10,000 pounds.
• Examples:
  1. School or city buses
  2. Dump trucks
  3. Delivery trucks

Class C CDL

• Who It's For: Drivers of smaller commercial vehicles or vehicles that transport hazardous materials or passengers
• What It Covers: This license applies to vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.
• Examples:
  1. Small buses
  2. Passenger vans
  3. Hazmat vehicles

Motorcycle Endorsement (Class M)

• Who It's For: Motorcycle riders
• What It Covers: A Class M endorsement is needed to legally ride a motorcycle in Rhode Island.
• Examples:
  1. Motorcycles
  2. Mopeds
  3. Scooters

Each license type has its own requirements, so make sure you meet the qualifications before applying.

How to Get a Rhode Island Driver’s License

Learn the steps to get your Rhode Island driver's license. Make sure you meet the age requirements, complete driver's education if needed, and bring the required documents to the DMV.

1. Get a Learner’s Permit

Pass the written knowledge test and meet the minimum age requirement to get your Rhode Island learner’s permit. Practice driving under a licensed driver’s supervision. 

2. Get a Provisional License

After holding your permit for six months and completing driving practice, you can take the road test for a provisional license. Drive but with some restrictions. 

3. Apply for a Full License

Once you've held your provisional license for at least 12 months and met all requirements, you can apply for a full, unrestricted Rhode Island driver's license. Enjoy driving legally without any restrictions. 

Stage 1: How to Get a Limited Instructional Permit in Rhode Island

Obtaining a Limited Instructional Permit is the first step in Rhode Island's Graduated Licensing System. This permit lets you drive under the supervision of a licensed driver at least 21 years old and has five or more years of driving experience.

Eligibility Criteria

This license is for teens aged 16 to 18.

Documents Required

Here are the documents you’ll require for your learner’s permit application: 

• Proof of legal presence/identity (e.g., certified birth certificate, US passport, permanent residence card)
• Proof of social security number (if applicable)
• Two proofs of Rhode Island residence (e.g., lease agreement, school record, pay stub)
• Proof of name change (if applicable)

Check the application form for a complete list of acceptable documents.

Validity

A Rhode Island instructional permit is valid for one year or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. 

Process

Here’s what you need to do to get your Rhode Island learner’s permit:

1. Enroll in a Driver Education Course

Start by signing up for a 33-hour driver education course certified by the Community College of Rhode Island. You can begin this course when you are 15 years old. However, it can only start when you’re at least 15 years and ten months old. 

2. Get Your Green CCRI Certificate

After completing the course, pass a knowledge test to get your green CCRI certificate. If you don’t pass, you'll have to retake the test at the DMV office in Cranston. Practice with Rhode Island DMV practice tests for a well-rounded preparation.

3. Apply at the DMV

Head to the closest DMV office location to apply. No appointment is needed.

4. Complete the Application Form

Download and fill out the application form beforehand. You and your parent or legal guardian will need to sign it, and they must be with you at the DMV.

5. Bring Required Documents

You’ll need to bring along the documents mentioned above when you visit the DMV. 

6. Take a Vision Test

Your vision should be at least 20/40 with correction. So, wear your corrective lenses if required. 

7. Pay the Fee

The fee is $11.50, which you can pay by cash, check, credit card, or money order.

8. Receive Your Limited Instructional Permit

You can start practicing supervised driving with your permit. 

Note: A Rhode Island instructional permit must be held for a minimum of months before taking the road test. If your permit expires before you pass the driving test, you'll need to retake the knowledge test or get recertified by CCRI for a new permit.

Restrictions

Here are some restrictions you’ll have to bear with when holding a Rhode Island Instructional Permit:

1. Supervised Driving: You must drive with a licensed adult (at least 21). They must possess a minimum of five years of driving experience.
2. No Driving Alone: You cannot drive alone or with passengers unless accompanied by your supervising adult.
3. Curfew Restrictions: You cannot drive between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
4. No Use of Mobile Devices: Using a mobile phone or other electronic devices while driving is prohibited unless you use hands-free technology.
5. Seatbelt Requirement: All passengers in the vehicle, including yourself, must wear seatbelts at all times.
6. Limited Driving Conditions: Avoid driving in adverse conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, until you have gained more driving experience.

Stage 2: A Guide to Getting a Rhode Island Provisional Driver’s License 

The Provisional Driver License is the second stage in Rhode Island's Graduated Licensing System. This license allows you to drive unsupervised with certain restrictions.

Eligibility Criteria

This license is for teens aged 16.5 to 18 who hold a Limited Instructional Permit

Documents Required

Here are the documents you’ll require for your learner’s permit application: 

• Proof of legal presence/identity (e.g., certified birth certificate, US passport, permanent residence card)
• Proof of social security number (if applicable)
• Two proofs of Rhode Island residence (e.g., lease agreement, school record, pay stub)
• Proof of name change (if applicable)

Validity

In Rhode Island, a provisional license is valid until you turn 18. After that, you can apply for a full operator’s license.

Process 

Follow this process to get your provisional driver’s license in Rhode Island:

1. Hold Your Instructional Permit

You’ll need to keep your limited instructional permit for at least six months without any moving violations or seatbelt infractions.

2. Complete Supervised Driving

Log at least 50 hours of driving experience, including 10 hours at night. An adult who’s at least 21 years old with 5+ years of driving experience must supervise. Your parent or guardian will need to sign a form confirming your hours.

3. Schedule Your Driving Test

Before your permit expires, schedule your road test by calling or visiting a DMV office.

4. Bring the Necessary Documents

On test day, bring your instructional permit, a signed and notarized affidavit confirming your driving hours, your supervising driver’s license, and a notarized letter if you’re using a car registered to someone else.

5. Pay the Fee

The driving test costs $23.50, payable by cash, credit card, check, or money order.

6. Pass the Driving Test

The test evaluates how well you drive under normal traffic conditions. Be sure to bring your own vehicle. If you fail, you’ll have to wait 30 days before retesting.

7. Get Your Provisional License

After passing the test, visit the DMV with a parent, guardian, foster parent, or responsible adult to obtain your provisional license.

Restrictions

Rhode Island provisional license restrictions include:

• Passenger Limit: You are not allowed to have more than one passenger under 21 unless they are immediate family members.
• Nighttime Driving: You cannot drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless it’s for work, school, or an emergency.
• Supervision: If driving during restricted hours for approved purposes, you must be accompanied by a licensed adult at least 21.

Stage 3: How to Get Your Rhode Island Driver’s License

Whether you’re a first-timer, an instruction permit holder, or a provisional driver’s license holder, once you turn 18, you can apply for a full driver’s license. This license allows you to drive independently without restrictions. 

Eligibility Criteria

You must be at least 17 ½ years old and apply in person at any DMV office. Moreover, if you're under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you to the DMV.

Documents Required

Here are the documents you’ll require for your learner’s permit application: 

• Proof of legal presence/identity (e.g., certified birth certificate, US passport, permanent residence card)
• Proof of social security number (if applicable)
• Two proofs of Rhode Island residence (e.g., lease agreement, school record, pay stub)
• Proof of name change (if applicable)

Validity

A full operator's license in Rhode Island is valid for up to 5 years. The expiration date will be based on your date of birth and can vary depending on when you apply. 

Process

If you already have a Limited Instructional Permit, skip to Step 7.
If you're getting your first license or if your previous license expired more than five years ago, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Cranston DMV Headquarters

You don’t need to schedule an appointment—just walk in during business hours.

2. Fill out an Application

Download the full license application form ahead of time and complete it before you go to save time.

3. Bring the Required Documents

You must bring the needed documents (mentioned above) to the DMV when you visit. 

4. Take the Knowledge Exam

Passing the knowledge/written exam is crucial to getting your driver’s license. This test that covers Rhode Island traffic laws and safe driving practices is available anytime during business hours—no appointment required. Use RI practice tests to help you prepare. If you fail, you must wait eight days to retake it.

5. Pay for Your Instructional Permit

The cost is $6.50, payable by cash, check, money order, or credit card (plus a $1.50 fee for card payments).

6. Receive Your Learner’s Permit

With your permit, you can practice driving, but a licensed adult must always be in the front seat.

7. Schedule Your Road Test

You can book the driving test online or at any driver licensing office. However, you must wait at least 30 days after getting your permit. Be sure to complete the LI-1 application form.

8. Pay the Road Test Fee

The fee is $26.50, payable by cash, check, money order, or credit card (with a $1.50 fee for card transactions).

9. Take the Road Test

You’ll need to bring your own vehicle, your original permit, and proof of valid Rhode Island registration. Before your test day, make sure to review Rhode Island’s road test FAQs.

10. Get Your Rhode Island Driver’s License

After passing your road test, you’re all set to receive your full RI driver’s license.

Restrictions

The Rhode Island Full Operator's License comes with the following restrictions for drivers under the age of 18:

• Curfew Restrictions: If you’re under 18, you cannot drive between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM unless traveling for work or accompanied by a parent/guardian.
• Passenger Restrictions: For the first 12 months, you cannot transport more than one passenger under 21 who is not your immediate family unless with a licensed adult aged 21 or older.
• Mobile Device Use: Texting and handheld device use are prohibited for drivers under 18, and hands-free use is also not allowed.

Once you turn 18, these restrictions are lifted, and you can drive without limitations.

Rhode Island Written Knowledge Test

Here are some frequently asked questions about the test.

Rhode Island Driving Skills Test

The driving test assesses your practical driving skills and understanding of road rules, traffic signs, and essential pre-driving procedures. It evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely in everyday traffic situations. 

Booking, rescheduling, or canceling your driving test online is possible. Remember that you must cancel or reschedule your test at least 48 hours before your appointment to avoid incurring another fee. 

If your test is canceled due to bad weather, you can reschedule it at no extra cost. Make sure you check weather updates and confirm your test status in advance.

What Happens Before the Skills Test?

Necessary Items to Bring
On the day of your driving test, be sure to have the following:

• Your original permit (copies will not be accepted)
• A signed and notarized affidavit verifying 50 hours of driving experience if you're under 18
• The license of your supervising driver (out-of-state licenses are allowed)
• A notarized letter granting permission to use the vehicle if the registered owner isn't present
• Proof of Rhode Island vehicle registration
• Proof of Rhode Island vehicle insurance (photocopies are acceptable)
• A valid inspection sticker, unless the car is less than two years old or has under 24,000 miles
• Proof of lease if you're using a leased car for the test
• No pets are allowed in the vehicle during the test
• Video and audio recording devices are prohibited

Points to Note

• Rental vehicles are not permitted for the driving test.
• If it's raining, you must demonstrate to the examiner how to operate the windshield wipers, hazard lights, and headlights.
• No passengers are allowed in the car during the road test.

Conducting a Vehicle Inspection
The examiner will inspect the following features:

• A functional center emergency brake
• ABS light
• SRS (airbag) light
• Brake lights
• Hazard lights
• Headlights
• Tires in good condition
• Properly certified window tint (if applicable)
• Your familiarity with vehicle controls

What Happens During the Skills Test?

Here’s what you can expect during the driving test:

Things You’ll Be Tested On

During your road test, your main focus should be on driving safely, controlling the vehicle, and following the examiner’s directions. Rest assured, you won’t be asked to perform any tricky or illegal maneuvers.
The examiner will observe the following aspects:

• Steering: Smoothness and control
• Acceleration: Gradual and controlled
• Braking: Gentle, avoiding sudden stops
• Clutch/Gears: Shifting smoothly and at appropriate times
• Speed: Adherence to speed limits and adjusting to weather and traffic conditions
• Following Distance: Maintaining a safe distance, especially in poor weather or visibility
• Traffic Signs and Signals: Observing and following all signs, signals, and road markings
• Stopping Position: Stopping correctly at stop lines, crosswalks, or intersections
• Lane Selection and Positioning: Proper lane use and positioning, particularly when turning
• Communication: Using signals and horns appropriately to communicate with other drivers and pedestrians
• Road Awareness: Checking mirrors, blind spots, and being aware of potential hazards
• Anticipation: Predicting and responding to potential errors from other drivers

Critical Driving Test Errors 

You will fail the test immediately if you exhibit any of the following behaviors:

• Poor Cooperation: Failing to follow the examiner’s instructions or displaying a lack of responsiveness
• Dangerous Lack of Experience: Demonstrating significant gaps in essential driving skills or knowledge
• Dangerous Actions: Engaging in maneuvers that pose a risk to yourself or others
• Rolling Stops: Not coming to a complete stop at stop signs or signals
• Leaving the Roadway: Straying off the designated driving path or entering unauthorized areas
• Collision: Causing any type of accident or hitting objects
• Erratic Driving: Operating the vehicle in an unpredictable or unsafe manner

What Happens After the Driving Test?

At the end of your driving test, the examiner will let you know whether you passed or failed. They will also provide feedback on any mistakes you made during the test. If you pass, you can obtain your license at a DMV.

If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you must wait at least 30 days before you can retake the test. If you fail a second or third time, you'll need to wait at least 90 or 180 days, respectively, before attempting again.

For each subsequent attempt beyond these limits, you must wait 180 days between tests, and you can only use two one-year extensions. If you still don't pass after these attempts, you must reapply for the permit and retake the knowledge test.

Rhode Island Driver’s License for New Residents

If you move to Rhode Island and plan to drive, you must transfer your current driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency.

• You are considered a Rhode Island resident if you have moved to Rhode Island and made it your permanent home.
• If you are just visiting Rhode Island, attending college here, or serving in the United States Armed Forces, you do not need to convert your valid out-of-state license.

What to do If You Have an Out-of-State License 

If you're relocating from another state and hold a valid out-of-state driver’s license, you must visit a local driver's license office and convert your license within 30 days of moving. As long as your out-of-state license is either current or expired for less than a year, you won’t be required to take a knowledge or road test.

Here’s what you need to do to get your out-of-state license converted to an Ocean State driver’s license:

1. Complete an Application Form

Download the application form and fill it out before your visit.

2. Apply in Person

You can apply at any DMV office. However, to transfer a license from a U.S. territory (like Puerto Rico or Guam), you must go to the Cranston DMV headquarters without an appointment.

3. Bring Required Documentation

   • Out-of-state driver’s license
   • Proof of legal presence/identity (e.g., certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, permanent residence card)
   • Proof of social security number (if applicable)
   • Two proofs of Rhode Island residence (e.g., lease agreement, school record, pay stub)
   • Proof of name change (if applicable)

4. Pay the Fee

   • $43.50, payable by cash, credit card, check, or money order. Note that credit card payments have a minimum $1.50 service fee.

Your new Rhode Island driver’s license will be valid for up to 5 years. If your out-of-state license expired over a year ago, you must take the knowledge and road tests.

What to do If You Have a Foreign License 

If you're coming to Rhode Island from another country, you'll need to convert your foreign driver's license to a Rhode Island license. This process is quite similar to applying for a new driver's license. 
You’ll need to complete a few key steps: 

1. Pass a computerized knowledge test. 
2. Obtain a Rhode Island instruction permit. 
3. Successfully pass a road test. 

To start the process, visit the DMV headquarters in Cranston to apply for your Rhode Island driver's license.