You have up to five years to renew your Rhode Island driver's license. After that time, you will be required to re-take the written test and road test in order to qualify. Rhode Island licenses that have been expired for five years or more cannot be renewed. Computerized knowledge exams are offered at the Cranston DMV only and road tests are available at the Melrose Street facility in Providence or the Middletown DMV. If you are temporarily out of state or out of the country for a valid reason such as work, school, in the military, or if you are seasonally in another state, the DMV can renew your license through the mail if you meet a few simple requirements:
- A licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist must complete an Eye Examination Card.
- Your license will only be renewed for a period of two years. When you return to Rhode Island, you can go to any DMV location to obtain a new license and updated photo.
- Payment in the form of check or money order must accompany the request.
- Mail to the RI Division of Motor Vehicles, Attn: License and Registration, 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920.
Please remember that a Commercial Driver License (CDL) must be renewed in person at the Cranston DMV only.
License renewals can also be done online if you meet the requirements. To learn more about online license renewals and other DMV services, visit our website at www.dmv.ri.gov.