Rhode Island driver's licenses expire every five years, and you can renew yours online, by mail, or in person at a DMV branch
Rhode Island's Division of Motor Vehicles lets you renew your license without visiting an office if you meet certain conditions. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs $65. If you cannot renew online, you can mail in your renewal or go to a DMV location in person — each route has different requirements and timelines.
Your license is valid for five years from the date it was issued. The DMV sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your expiration date, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the DMV website costs $65 and takes about 10 minutes, but you must have a valid Social Security number and no medical restrictions on your license.
- Mail-in renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the DMV, and processing takes two to three weeks.
- In-person renewal at a DMV branch is required if you need a new photo, have medical restrictions, or are renewing a commercial driver's license.
- You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.
- Rhode Island charges $65 for a standard five-year renewal, with no additional fees for online or mail processing.
Online Renewal Through the DMV Website
Online renewal is the fastest option if your license has no medical restrictions and you have a valid Social Security number on file. Go to the Rhode Island DMV website, select the renewal option, and enter your license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information and show you the renewal fee.
You will pay the $65 renewal fee by credit card or debit card during the online transaction. Once your payment processes, the DMV mails your new license to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Online renewal is not available if your license has medical restrictions (such as corrective lenses required or hearing aid required), if you need a new photo, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license. In those cases, you must renew in person or by mail.
Mail-in Renewal by Sending Your License and Form
To renew by mail, complete Form DL-1 (process for Operator's License Renewal), which you can read from the DMV website or request by phone. Include your current license, a check or money order for $65 made payable to "State of Rhode Island," and the completed form in an envelope addressed to the Rhode Island DMV.
Mail your renewal packet to the address listed on the DMV website. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. You can continue to drive on your current license during this time. The DMV will mail your new license to the address on your process.
Mail-in renewal works for most drivers, including those with medical restrictions on their license. However, if you need a new photo or are renewing a commercial license, you must go to a DMV branch in person.
In-Person Renewal at a DMV Branch
Visit any Rhode Island DMV branch to renew in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and $65 in cash, check, or card. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license, bring your current CDL and any required medical certificates.
The DMV will take a new photo during your visit. Processing is usually when ready or within a few minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your plastic card is mailed to you, which arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
In-person renewal is required if you need a new photo, if your license has medical restrictions that need to be reviewed or updated, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license. It is also the best option if you want to resolve any issues with your license record before renewal.
What Happens If Your License Has Expired
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DMV branch, a written test, and a road test. Contact the DMV or visit their website to learn about the new license process.
If your license expired within the last year, you can still renew it using any of the three methods above. The renewal process is the same whether your license is current or recently expired.
DMV Branch Locations and Hours
Rhode Island has DMV branches in Providence, Warwick, and Woonsocket. Each location has different hours, and some are open on Saturdays. Check the DMV website for the full list of addresses, phone numbers, and current hours before you visit.
The Providence branch is typically the busiest, especially on weekday afternoons. If you want to avoid long waits, visit early in the morning or on a weekday rather than a Saturday. Some branches offer online appointment scheduling, which you can check on the DMV website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I moved to a different address?
Yes. If you renew online or by mail, your new license will be mailed to the address on file with the DMV. If you have moved recently, update your address through the DMV website or during an in-person visit before you renew. You may need to provide proof of your new address.
What if I lost my license before it expired?
You cannot renew a lost license. Instead, you must explore for a duplicate license at a DMV branch. Bring your ID and proof of residency. A duplicate costs $20 and is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, or you can receive a temporary paper license when ready.
Do I need to take a new written or road test to renew?
No. Renewal is not the same as explore for a new license. You do not take any tests to renew a current, valid license. Tests are only required if your license has been expired for more than one year or if you are explore for a new license.
How much does it cost to renew a commercial driver's license?
A commercial driver's license renewal costs $65, the same as a standard license renewal. However, you must renew in person at a DMV branch and may need to provide updated medical certificates depending on the type of commercial license you hold.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding ticket or fine?
The DMV does not check for outstanding tickets or fines during renewal. However, you should resolve any traffic violations or unpaid fines with the court, as they may affect your driving record or result in license suspension separately from the renewal process.