You are considered a surviving spouse. In order to transfer the registration into your name, you will need to complete and sign the Application for Registration (TR-1) form. You must also complete and sign the Sales or Use Tax Exemption Certificate form. No costs are associated with this transaction. This applies to spouses only, not to any other deceased family member.
Since the model year of the vehicle is 2001 or newer, a title in the name of the deceased person is required. You must also bring the current registration in the name of the deceased person and an original death certificate. The DMV will make a photocopy and return the original to you. You must sign the vehicle over to yourself by printing and signing your name in both the buyer and seller areas on the back of the title. Be sure to include the vehicle's current mileage reading. There is no tax owed as long as the vehicle was registered in the deceased spouse's name (not to a business). Please remember to bring proof of insurance on the vehicle in your name and your identity documents.
For more information about these topics and other DMV services offered online including driver's license renewal, please visit our website at www.dmv.ri.gov.