RI Practice Permit Test
Based on the 2024 RI DMV Manual
Permit Practice Tests (150 questions)
-
01Q 1-40Practice Test 180% needed to pass; 8 mistakes allowed
-
02Q 41-80Practice Test 280% needed to pass; 8 mistakes allowed
-
03Q 81-120Practice Test 380% needed to pass; 8 mistakes allowed
-
04Q 121-160Practice Test 480% needed to pass; 8 mistakes allowed
-
05Q 161-210Road Signs Test80% needed to pass; 10 mistakes allowed
-
0650 random QDMV Test Simulator80% needed to pass; 10 mistakes allowed
-
07All 150 QEndurance Test80% needed to pass; 30 mistakes allowed
Most people become uneasy at just the thought of taking a test, and this can often lead to failure. In fact, statistics tell us that 2 out of 3 people fail the written test every year! Don’t worry! We’re here to help. You’ll find that we’ve done all the painful work of gathering the critical study resources for you. Here you’ll find a list of exactly what you need to study. Our free Rhode Island practice permit test will give you a better idea of what the real test format will look like while providing important feedback. You’ll also find a copy of the official Rhode Island Driver’s Manual. Getting your motorcycle permit? We have test prep resources available for that too.
Why Our Rhode Island Practice Permit Tests Are Right for You
- Complete Coverage: Our practice tests include everything you need to know about road signs, rules of the road, and essential driving knowledge.
- Simulated Exam Experience: Get a feel for what the real test will be like with our practice questions, formatted just like the actual exam.
- Personalized Feedback: Review any questions you missed and focus on improving those areas to boost your confidence.
- Detailed Explanations: Each question comes with instant feedback and detailed explanations to help reinforce your learning.
Prepare for Your RI Permit Test Today
Small in size but huge on adventure, driving in Rhode Island can be inspiring. Right in the middle of everything, Rhode Island has the Atlantic Ocean to its south, Massachusetts to its east, and Connecticut to its west. Whether you want to stay in the Ocean State or venture out, having a permit or driver’s license will afford you new opportunities. Securing your driving future begins with preparing for the DMV written exam.
Before you take to the roads of Rhode Island, make sure you’re fully prepared for the DMV written test. Our practice tests and study materials will help you ace your RI permit test with ease. Start preparing now by becoming familiar with the information found in the Rhode Island Driver’s Handbook and then test your knowledge using our free practice tests.
Rhode Island Learner's Permit FAQ
Applying for Your RI License
What are the age requirements for getting started?
Teen drivers in Rhode Island are required to progress through three stages to receive their unrestricted driver’s license. Those stages and their age requirements are:
- Limited Instructional Permit (Learner’s Permit) – 16 with driver’s ed completion
- Limited Provisional Driver’s License – held Learner’s Permit for at least 6 months
- Unrestricted Driver’s License – 17 years old
What documents am I required to bring with me when applying for a license in Rhode Island?
- Birth certificate
- Social Security Card
- Proof of residency
- Driver’s ed certificate of completion
- $11.50 for permit fee
Visit the RI DMV for a complete list of acceptable documents to submit as proof of the above.
Where do I file my RI driver’s license application?
You should file your application at a local DMV branch office.
How can I contact my local office?
Visit https://www.dmv.ri.gov/locations/ for office locations and contact information.
Do I have to take a Driver’s Ed Course?
Yes, to receive your Limited Learner’s Permit you need to complete an approved 33-hour driver’s education course.
What if I am new to Rhode Island?
If you are new to RI, you have 30 days to transfer an out-of-state license to a Rhode Island License. To do this, visit your DMV office, submit your license and provide proof of identity and residency. You will also need to pay a fee of $34.50.
What subjects are commonly covered on the written test?
The Rhode Island written test covers motor vehicle laws and rules of the road. All questions are taken from the state’s driver’s manual. Here are two examples of content from the manual that you could be tested on:
- Drivers at risk of becoming drowsy behind the wheel include: drivers on long trips; drivers lacking sleep; drivers with undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders; drivers on the road during the body’s natural “low” times; drivers on the road after extended wakefulness; young drivers; and shift workers.
- Hand signals for turns are: for a left turn, put your left hand and arm straight out, keeping hand and arm still. For a right turn, put your left hand and arm up, keeping hand and arm still.
How is the test formatted?
The Rhode Island test is multiple choice.
Are there a lot of “trick” questions on the written test?
No, questions are taken from the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual and are written to test your knowledge of traffic laws, signs and safe driving practices. Study the manual thoroughly to ensure you don’t find any question “tricky” or “surprising.”
How many questions are on the test and how many do I need to answer correctly to pass?
There are 50 questions on the test and you must answer at least 40 of them correctly to pass.
What are the best ways to prepare for the written test?
You should study the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual very carefully. You can also take practice tests online to get a better idea of what areas you have good knowledge of and which areas you need to study more.
Where can I get a free Rhode Island Driver’s Manual to study?
Free copies are available on this website.
How can I improve my odds for passing the first time I take the test?
When studying the driver’s manual be sure to pay close attention to measurements, distances and lengths. Also, be sure to study the drinking and driving section. To get a better idea of the type of questions you will face on the test, take a practice test.
What should I do the night before the test?
The ideal scenario is to have study so much beforehand that you are able to just do a light review (browse the driver’s manual, take a practice test) on the night before the test and then get a good night’s sleep. This will help ensure you are rested and at your best when it comes time to take the test.
Do I need to make an appointment to take the written test?
Your local DMV office may accept appointments, contact them to find out. If they accept appointments, it is recommended that you make one.
Where do I take the written test?
You will take the test at a local DMV office.
What do I need to bring when I sit for the written test?
- Birth certificate
- Social Security Card
- Proof of residency
- Driver’s ed certificate of completion
- $11.50 for permit fee
Visit the RI DMV for a complete list of acceptable documents to submit as proof of the above.
Who should accompany me to the written test?
You should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Do I need to pay a fee to take the written test?
Yes, you will need to pay a fee of $11.50.
What should I expect when I sit for the written test?
The test has 50 questions covering signs, traffic laws and safe driving practices. You will need to answer at least 40 of them correctly to pass. When taking the test you cannot refer to any notes, use the driver’s manual or get help from anyone else. To familiarize yourself with the test format, take a practice test.
What happens after I pass the written test?
You will receive your Junior Learner’s Permit and can begin supervised driving practice. You must complete 50 total hours of driving practice with at least 10 of those hours completed at night.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test.
How soon can I retake the written test?
You are allowed to retake the test as soon as the next business day.
I’ve passed the written permit test, what are the next steps?
Your Limited Instructional Permit will allow you to being supervised driving practice. For these practice hours you must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or over who has held their license for at least five years. You will need to complete a total of 50 hours of driving practice with at least 10 of those hours coming at night.
How long after getting my Learner’s Permit can I apply for a license?
You can apply for your Limited Provisional License after you have held the Learner’s Permit for six months and have completed all 50 hours of the required supervised driving practice time.
Can I drive anywhere in Rhode Island with my Learner’s Permit?
As long as you are accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older who has had their license for at least five years, you can drive on any Rhode Island public road or street.
Should I practice driving solely during the day?
No, you are required to complete at least 10 of your 50 supervised driving practice hours at night.
Does anyone have to be in the car with me when I’m driving with my Learner’s Permit?
You must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or over who has held their license for at least five years.
What should I do if I have a lost Rhode Island Learner’s Permit?
You can replace the permit by visiting a DMV office with proper identification.
How can I be sure I’m prepared to ace the driving test?
The test includes pre-driving procedures, driving in traffic, parking, making proper turns and other common driving experiences – be sure to practice all of these things extensively.
Are there particular driving maneuvers I should practice?
You should practice parking, including parallel parking; turns, including a three-point turnabout; making quick stops; backing; driving in traffic; and more.
How can I simulate the driving test?
Be sure to practice maneuvers like parking, stopping, turning and backing. Also be sure to practice driving in traffic where you need to respond to cars around you and use good defensive driving skills. Examples of good defensive driving skills would be following at a safe distance, using signals and obeying traffic signs.
How do I schedule my driving test?
Road tests should be scheduled as far in advance as possible. You can schedule a test online or by contacting a branch office.
Where do I take the driving test?
You will take the test at a local DMV branch office.
What should I bring to the driving test?
- Your original permit
- Signed and notarized affidavit of 50 hours driving practice
- License of the supervising driver
- Notarized letter allowing use of vehicle when registered owner is not present (where applicable) or notarized letter from the owner/president of a corporation acknowledging use of a corporate vehicle
- Vehicle with a center emergency brake.
- Proof of valid Rhode Island registration
Who should bring me to the driving test?
A licensed parent or legal guardian should bring you.
What will I be asked to do on the driving test?
You will be asked to complete both common vehicle maneuvers such as parking, backing and stopping, as well as to drive in traffic. You will need to show good control of your vehicle as well as good awareness of cars, pedestrians and road signs and signals.
What are the most common reasons new drivers fail the driving test?
Common reasons for failure include leaving the designated roadway; getting a “moving” violation; lack of cooperation with the License Examiner; and collision or contact with any other object.
What are five mistakes I should be sure to avoid when taking the driving test?
- Not using proper hand position on the steering wheel
- Over-correcting on a turn
- Failing to park properly
- Not obeying a traffic sign or signal
- Going over the posted speed limit
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You will have to call or visit a DMV office to schedule a new test.
How soon can I retake the test?
You must wait at least 30 days before you can retake the test. If your permit expires, you may have to take the written test again and get a new permit.
I’ve passed the road test, now what?
You will receive your Limited Provisional Driver’s License.
What restrictions come with a Rhode Island license?
- Cannot drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless you are accompanied by a supervising driver or traveling to/from work
- Cannot drive with more than one passenger under 21 years of age unless they are immediate family members
What are the insurance requirements for drivers in RI?
Drivers in Rhode Island are required to meet the following minimum car insurance requirements:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per incident
- $25,000 for property damage
What if I need to renew my license or replace a lost/stolen license?
Rhode Island driver’s licenses need to be renewed every five years – or every two years if you are 75 or older. A renewal form with instructions will be sent to you before the expiration date.
You can replace a lost or stolen license by visiting a DMV office with proper identification. You will need to pay a $26.50 duplicate license fee.
Where can I renew my Rhode Island driver’s license?
You can renew your Rhode Island Driver’s License in person at a DMV office or, if you are eligible, online.
Will I be required to take a vision test when renewing my license?
No, a vision test is not required. The state says visual acuity of 20/40 or better is necessary to drive safely without corrective lenses. If you believe you do not meet that vision standard make an appointment with an optometrist right away.
How to Get Your Rhode Island Learner’s Permit in 2024
The Rhode Island permit test If you want to earn full driving privileges in the state of Rhode Island, you will need to educate yourself on the Graduated Driver’s License Program (GDL), a multi-stage process that helps young drivers gain important driving skills before they are allowed to drive without supervision. GDL programs have been proven to make a big difference in reducing accidents caused by inexperienced drivers.
The Rhode Island GDL process involves three distinct stages:
- Limited Instruction Permit
- Provisional License
- Full License
On this page, you will learn how to pass the Rhode Island permit test and go on to earn your Full License.
Limited Instruction Permit
Driver’s education is mandatory in Rhode Island. You can sign up for the 33-hour course, certified by the Department of Education when you are 15 years and 10 months old. To complete this course, you must pass a written test given by the Department of Education, which is similar to the permit test in most stages. After passing, you can apply for your Limited Instruction Permit (or learner’s permit) as early as age 16.
The Rhode Island DMV Test — What You Need to Know
Wouldn’t it be great if you had your Rhode Island learners permit? No more begging your friends or family to take you where you want to go.
Before you can be issued a permit, you will need to pass a written knowledge test administered by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). More commonly known as the permit test, this test was created to determine if you have the knowledge to be a safe and courteous driver. The test will evaluate your awareness of the rules of the road, signs and signals, and Rhode Island motor vehicle laws.
Study, Study, Study
You will learn a lot during your course, but you also must study on your own if you want to pass. The test will check your knowledge of the rules of the road, traffic signs and traffic signals. Our free copy of the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual is a wonderful resource for learning.
Take Practice Exams
The absolute best way to up your odds of passing the permit test on the first try is to take practice exams. Our Rhode Island practice permit test includes a lot of the same subject matter as the real test, and taking it in advance will help you gauge your preparedness.
Visit the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Offices and Apply for Your Permit
Once you pass your exam and complete driver’s education, you can visit the DMV and apply for your Limited Instruction Permit. Be sure to bring along:
- Your certified birth certificate and Social Security card.
- Your driver’s education certificate.
- A parent or legal guardian who is both an in-state resident and has held a license for at least five years.
- Your completed permit application, which your parent must sign in front of a notary.
- $11.50 in fees.
After you pay your fees and show all of your paperwork, you will be given your permit.
Begin Practicing Your Driving
Now that you have your permit, you can begin practicing. Be aware that you must always drive with a licensed driver age 21 or above who has held his or her license for at least five years. That driver must sit in the passenger seat while you practice. You are required to complete 50 hours of practice driving, with 10 of those hours taking place at night.
Limited Provisional License
When you have held your permit for six months and completed your practice driving, you can call the DMV offices and make an appointment to take the behind-the-wheel road test. This test will check how well you control your vehicle and pay attention to traffic laws. On appointment day, be sure to bring along:
- An application, signed by your parent or guardian.
- $15.50 in fees.
- Your permit.
- Signed proof that you completed your practice driving.
- A registered and insured car to use for the test.
The road test is very simple and should be easy to pass just as long as you have been practicing hard. When you pass, you will be given your Limited Provisional License, which comes with some restrictions. Unless accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or above who has held his or her license for at least five years, you cannot:
- Drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
- Drive with more than one passenger under the age of 21 for the first year.
- Use a cell phone while driving.
Driver’s License
When you are at least 17 and a half years old, and you have completed the other stages of the GDL process, you will be able to apply for your Full License. Bring a fee of $26.50 to the DMV offices and trade in your Limited Provisional License.
Congratulations! You can now enjoy unrestricted driving privileges.
Additional Information
Your Limited Instruction Permit will be valid for a full year after the date you receive it or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. If you allow it to expire before you take your road test, you will have to visit the Community College of Rhode Island to request another driver’s education certificate so that you will be able to apply for your Limited Provisional License.
Motorcycle Practice Tests (100 questions)
-
01Q 1-25Motorcycle Test 180% needed to pass; 5 mistakes allowed
-
02Q 26-50Motorcycle Test 280% needed to pass; 5 mistakes allowed
-
03Q 51-75Motorcycle Test 380% needed to pass; 5 mistakes allowed
-
04Q 76-100Motorcycle Test 480% needed to pass; 5 mistakes allowed
-
05All 100 QMotorcycle Endurance Test80% needed to pass; 20 mistakes allowed
Most people become uneasy at just the thought of taking a test, and this can often lead to failure. In fact, statistics tell us that 2 out of 3 people fail the written test every year! Don’t worry! We’re here to help. You’ll find that we’ve done all the painful work of gathering the critical study resources for you. Here you’ll find a list of exactly what you need to study. Our free Rhode Island practice permit test will give you a better idea of what the real test format will look like while providing important feedback. You’ll also find a copy of the official Rhode Island Driver’s Manual. Getting your motorcycle permit? We have test prep resources available for that too.
Why Our Rhode Island Practice Permit Tests Are Right for You
- Complete Coverage: Our practice tests include everything you need to know about road signs, rules of the road, and essential driving knowledge.
- Simulated Exam Experience: Get a feel for what the real test will be like with our practice questions, formatted just like the actual exam.
- Personalized Feedback: Review any questions you missed and focus on improving those areas to boost your confidence.
- Detailed Explanations: Each question comes with instant feedback and detailed explanations to help reinforce your learning.
Prepare for Your RI Permit Test Today
Small in size but huge on adventure, driving in Rhode Island can be inspiring. Right in the middle of everything, Rhode Island has the Atlantic Ocean to its south, Massachusetts to its east, and Connecticut to its west. Whether you want to stay in the Ocean State or venture out, having a permit or driver’s license will afford you new opportunities. Securing your driving future begins with preparing for the DMV written exam.
Before you take to the roads of Rhode Island, make sure you’re fully prepared for the DMV written test. Our practice tests and study materials will help you ace your RI permit test with ease. Start preparing now by becoming familiar with the information found in the Rhode Island Driver’s Handbook and then test your knowledge using our free practice tests.
Rhode Island Learner's Permit FAQ
Applying for Your RI License
What are the age requirements for getting started?
Teen drivers in Rhode Island are required to progress through three stages to receive their unrestricted driver’s license. Those stages and their age requirements are:
- Limited Instructional Permit (Learner’s Permit) – 16 with driver’s ed completion
- Limited Provisional Driver’s License – held Learner’s Permit for at least 6 months
- Unrestricted Driver’s License – 17 years old
What documents am I required to bring with me when applying for a license in Rhode Island?
- Birth certificate
- Social Security Card
- Proof of residency
- Driver’s ed certificate of completion
- $11.50 for permit fee
Visit the RI DMV for a complete list of acceptable documents to submit as proof of the above.
Where do I file my RI driver’s license application?
You should file your application at a local DMV branch office.
How can I contact my local office?
Visit https://www.dmv.ri.gov/locations/ for office locations and contact information.
Do I have to take a Driver’s Ed Course?
Yes, to receive your Limited Learner’s Permit you need to complete an approved 33-hour driver’s education course.
What if I am new to Rhode Island?
If you are new to RI, you have 30 days to transfer an out-of-state license to a Rhode Island License. To do this, visit your DMV office, submit your license and provide proof of identity and residency. You will also need to pay a fee of $34.50.
What subjects are commonly covered on the written test?
The Rhode Island written test covers motor vehicle laws and rules of the road. All questions are taken from the state’s driver’s manual. Here are two examples of content from the manual that you could be tested on:
- Drivers at risk of becoming drowsy behind the wheel include: drivers on long trips; drivers lacking sleep; drivers with undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders; drivers on the road during the body’s natural “low” times; drivers on the road after extended wakefulness; young drivers; and shift workers.
- Hand signals for turns are: for a left turn, put your left hand and arm straight out, keeping hand and arm still. For a right turn, put your left hand and arm up, keeping hand and arm still.
How is the test formatted?
The Rhode Island test is multiple choice.
Are there a lot of “trick” questions on the written test?
No, questions are taken from the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual and are written to test your knowledge of traffic laws, signs and safe driving practices. Study the manual thoroughly to ensure you don’t find any question “tricky” or “surprising.”
How many questions are on the test and how many do I need to answer correctly to pass?
There are 50 questions on the test and you must answer at least 40 of them correctly to pass.
What are the best ways to prepare for the written test?
You should study the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual very carefully. You can also take practice tests online to get a better idea of what areas you have good knowledge of and which areas you need to study more.
Where can I get a free Rhode Island Driver’s Manual to study?
Free copies are available on this website.
How can I improve my odds for passing the first time I take the test?
When studying the driver’s manual be sure to pay close attention to measurements, distances and lengths. Also, be sure to study the drinking and driving section. To get a better idea of the type of questions you will face on the test, take a practice test.
What should I do the night before the test?
The ideal scenario is to have study so much beforehand that you are able to just do a light review (browse the driver’s manual, take a practice test) on the night before the test and then get a good night’s sleep. This will help ensure you are rested and at your best when it comes time to take the test.
Do I need to make an appointment to take the written test?
Your local DMV office may accept appointments, contact them to find out. If they accept appointments, it is recommended that you make one.
Where do I take the written test?
You will take the test at a local DMV office.
What do I need to bring when I sit for the written test?
- Birth certificate
- Social Security Card
- Proof of residency
- Driver’s ed certificate of completion
- $11.50 for permit fee
Visit the RI DMV for a complete list of acceptable documents to submit as proof of the above.
Who should accompany me to the written test?
You should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Do I need to pay a fee to take the written test?
Yes, you will need to pay a fee of $11.50.
What should I expect when I sit for the written test?
The test has 50 questions covering signs, traffic laws and safe driving practices. You will need to answer at least 40 of them correctly to pass. When taking the test you cannot refer to any notes, use the driver’s manual or get help from anyone else. To familiarize yourself with the test format, take a practice test.
What happens after I pass the written test?
You will receive your Junior Learner’s Permit and can begin supervised driving practice. You must complete 50 total hours of driving practice with at least 10 of those hours completed at night.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test.
How soon can I retake the written test?
You are allowed to retake the test as soon as the next business day.
I’ve passed the written permit test, what are the next steps?
Your Limited Instructional Permit will allow you to being supervised driving practice. For these practice hours you must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or over who has held their license for at least five years. You will need to complete a total of 50 hours of driving practice with at least 10 of those hours coming at night.
How long after getting my Learner’s Permit can I apply for a license?
You can apply for your Limited Provisional License after you have held the Learner’s Permit for six months and have completed all 50 hours of the required supervised driving practice time.
Can I drive anywhere in Rhode Island with my Learner’s Permit?
As long as you are accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older who has had their license for at least five years, you can drive on any Rhode Island public road or street.
Should I practice driving solely during the day?
No, you are required to complete at least 10 of your 50 supervised driving practice hours at night.
Does anyone have to be in the car with me when I’m driving with my Learner’s Permit?
You must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or over who has held their license for at least five years.
What should I do if I have a lost Rhode Island Learner’s Permit?
You can replace the permit by visiting a DMV office with proper identification.
How can I be sure I’m prepared to ace the driving test?
The test includes pre-driving procedures, driving in traffic, parking, making proper turns and other common driving experiences – be sure to practice all of these things extensively.
Are there particular driving maneuvers I should practice?
You should practice parking, including parallel parking; turns, including a three-point turnabout; making quick stops; backing; driving in traffic; and more.
How can I simulate the driving test?
Be sure to practice maneuvers like parking, stopping, turning and backing. Also be sure to practice driving in traffic where you need to respond to cars around you and use good defensive driving skills. Examples of good defensive driving skills would be following at a safe distance, using signals and obeying traffic signs.
How do I schedule my driving test?
Road tests should be scheduled as far in advance as possible. You can schedule a test online or by contacting a branch office.
Where do I take the driving test?
You will take the test at a local DMV branch office.
What should I bring to the driving test?
- Your original permit
- Signed and notarized affidavit of 50 hours driving practice
- License of the supervising driver
- Notarized letter allowing use of vehicle when registered owner is not present (where applicable) or notarized letter from the owner/president of a corporation acknowledging use of a corporate vehicle
- Vehicle with a center emergency brake.
- Proof of valid Rhode Island registration
Who should bring me to the driving test?
A licensed parent or legal guardian should bring you.
What will I be asked to do on the driving test?
You will be asked to complete both common vehicle maneuvers such as parking, backing and stopping, as well as to drive in traffic. You will need to show good control of your vehicle as well as good awareness of cars, pedestrians and road signs and signals.
What are the most common reasons new drivers fail the driving test?
Common reasons for failure include leaving the designated roadway; getting a “moving” violation; lack of cooperation with the License Examiner; and collision or contact with any other object.
What are five mistakes I should be sure to avoid when taking the driving test?
- Not using proper hand position on the steering wheel
- Over-correcting on a turn
- Failing to park properly
- Not obeying a traffic sign or signal
- Going over the posted speed limit
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You will have to call or visit a DMV office to schedule a new test.
How soon can I retake the test?
You must wait at least 30 days before you can retake the test. If your permit expires, you may have to take the written test again and get a new permit.
I’ve passed the road test, now what?
You will receive your Limited Provisional Driver’s License.
What restrictions come with a Rhode Island license?
- Cannot drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless you are accompanied by a supervising driver or traveling to/from work
- Cannot drive with more than one passenger under 21 years of age unless they are immediate family members
What are the insurance requirements for drivers in RI?
Drivers in Rhode Island are required to meet the following minimum car insurance requirements:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per incident
- $25,000 for property damage
What if I need to renew my license or replace a lost/stolen license?
Rhode Island driver’s licenses need to be renewed every five years – or every two years if you are 75 or older. A renewal form with instructions will be sent to you before the expiration date.
You can replace a lost or stolen license by visiting a DMV office with proper identification. You will need to pay a $26.50 duplicate license fee.
Where can I renew my Rhode Island driver’s license?
You can renew your Rhode Island Driver’s License in person at a DMV office or, if you are eligible, online.
Will I be required to take a vision test when renewing my license?
No, a vision test is not required. The state says visual acuity of 20/40 or better is necessary to drive safely without corrective lenses. If you believe you do not meet that vision standard make an appointment with an optometrist right away.
How to Get Your Rhode Island Learner’s Permit in 2024
The Rhode Island permit test If you want to earn full driving privileges in the state of Rhode Island, you will need to educate yourself on the Graduated Driver’s License Program (GDL), a multi-stage process that helps young drivers gain important driving skills before they are allowed to drive without supervision. GDL programs have been proven to make a big difference in reducing accidents caused by inexperienced drivers.
The Rhode Island GDL process involves three distinct stages:
- Limited Instruction Permit
- Provisional License
- Full License
On this page, you will learn how to pass the Rhode Island permit test and go on to earn your Full License.
Limited Instruction Permit
Driver’s education is mandatory in Rhode Island. You can sign up for the 33-hour course, certified by the Department of Education when you are 15 years and 10 months old. To complete this course, you must pass a written test given by the Department of Education, which is similar to the permit test in most stages. After passing, you can apply for your Limited Instruction Permit (or learner’s permit) as early as age 16.
The Rhode Island DMV Test — What You Need to Know
Wouldn’t it be great if you had your Rhode Island learners permit? No more begging your friends or family to take you where you want to go.
Before you can be issued a permit, you will need to pass a written knowledge test administered by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). More commonly known as the permit test, this test was created to determine if you have the knowledge to be a safe and courteous driver. The test will evaluate your awareness of the rules of the road, signs and signals, and Rhode Island motor vehicle laws.
Study, Study, Study
You will learn a lot during your course, but you also must study on your own if you want to pass. The test will check your knowledge of the rules of the road, traffic signs and traffic signals. Our free copy of the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual is a wonderful resource for learning.
Take Practice Exams
The absolute best way to up your odds of passing the permit test on the first try is to take practice exams. Our Rhode Island practice permit test includes a lot of the same subject matter as the real test, and taking it in advance will help you gauge your preparedness.
Visit the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Offices and Apply for Your Permit
Once you pass your exam and complete driver’s education, you can visit the DMV and apply for your Limited Instruction Permit. Be sure to bring along:
- Your certified birth certificate and Social Security card.
- Your driver’s education certificate.
- A parent or legal guardian who is both an in-state resident and has held a license for at least five years.
- Your completed permit application, which your parent must sign in front of a notary.
- $11.50 in fees.
After you pay your fees and show all of your paperwork, you will be given your permit.
Begin Practicing Your Driving
Now that you have your permit, you can begin practicing. Be aware that you must always drive with a licensed driver age 21 or above who has held his or her license for at least five years. That driver must sit in the passenger seat while you practice. You are required to complete 50 hours of practice driving, with 10 of those hours taking place at night.
Limited Provisional License
When you have held your permit for six months and completed your practice driving, you can call the DMV offices and make an appointment to take the behind-the-wheel road test. This test will check how well you control your vehicle and pay attention to traffic laws. On appointment day, be sure to bring along:
- An application, signed by your parent or guardian.
- $15.50 in fees.
- Your permit.
- Signed proof that you completed your practice driving.
- A registered and insured car to use for the test.
The road test is very simple and should be easy to pass just as long as you have been practicing hard. When you pass, you will be given your Limited Provisional License, which comes with some restrictions. Unless accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or above who has held his or her license for at least five years, you cannot:
- Drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
- Drive with more than one passenger under the age of 21 for the first year.
- Use a cell phone while driving.
Driver’s License
When you are at least 17 and a half years old, and you have completed the other stages of the GDL process, you will be able to apply for your Full License. Bring a fee of $26.50 to the DMV offices and trade in your Limited Provisional License.
Congratulations! You can now enjoy unrestricted driving privileges.
Additional Information
Your Limited Instruction Permit will be valid for a full year after the date you receive it or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. If you allow it to expire before you take your road test, you will have to visit the Community College of Rhode Island to request another driver’s education certificate so that you will be able to apply for your Limited Provisional License.