The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has streamlined services and now allows you to complete a number of transactions online from the comfort of your home including driver's license renewals and registration renewals for passenger vehicles. Just go to www.dmv.ri.gov for a full listing of all DMV online services and eligibility rules and requirements. Here are a few details you should know:
To process a registration renewal, you will need:
- Your current vehicle registration or renewal notice
- Your current vehicle insurance card
- A credit/debit card and billing address
- A printer connected to your computer to print your receipt
Please note that if you pay property taxes in Barrington, Central Falls, Exeter or Warren, you cannot use the DMV's online registration renewal at this time. That's because municipal tax rules in these communities require that residents are clear of any personal property, and/or excise tax liens before registering a vehicle.
To process a driver's license renewal, you will need:
- Your current driver's license or renewal notice
- A credit card and billing address
- A printer in order to print your receipt
You will be asked questions regarding a vision exam and/or any impairment, organ donor status and voter registration. You cannot make any changes to your license information when using this online service, including name, residence and mailing addresses, physical characteristics, restrictions and endorsements. If you receive an error message while using the online service, you will be directed to visit any DMV location to complete the renewal process.
Due to Federal regulations, Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL) can not be renewed online and can only be renewed in person at the Cranston DMV. Also, licenses which are suspended, revoked, expired for more than 180 days, or do not meet certain state or national requirements may not be renewed online.
You will receive your new license within 28 business days.
Because access to some renewal eligibility information is limited, this online service may be unavailable at the following times:
- Saturday 8:30 PM through Monday 7:30 AM (including every Sunday)
- Monday - Saturday 6:45 AM - 7:30 AM
If you visit DMV's website, you will find that you can also download a copy of your certified driver record, gain access to motor vehicle title records on file with the DMV, reserve a Rhode Island vanity license plate or request a remake of a veteran plate.
Online access is also available for Oversize/Overweight Trucking Permits, SI-1 Auto Lien Holder Registration and Temporary IRP Permits.
For more information, please visit the DMV website at www.dmv.ri.gov.