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How Can I Apply for my RI Driver’s License? Frequently Asked Questions
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What age should I be before applying for a Rhode Island driver’s license?
In the state of Rhode Island, you must be at least 16 years old in order to get a permit.What documents should I take with me when I apply for my Rhode Island license?
When you go to apply for your first Rhode Island license there are a few documents you will need to take with you. First, you must take proof that you have had at least 33 ½ hours of drivers education approved by the Community College of Rhode Island. Once you pass your knowledge test, you will be given a certificate. You will take your certificate along with your birth document, social security card and driver’s license application to a local DMV branch.How can I become eligible for a Rhode Island learner’s permit?
To be eligible for a learner’s permit in Rhode Island you must be…- 16 years or older
- Able to supply proof of birth
- Able to supply proof of Social Security Card
- Able to have parent(s)/guardian(s) present (if under 18)
- Able to supply proof of driver’s education
- Able to supply proof of residence
Where do I go to apply for my Rhode Island license?
Go to your DMV headquarters to take your knowledge test and obtain your permit. Find a list of branches here.How may I contact a Rhode Island DMV office?
You may contact a Rhode Island DMV office by either checking out their website or by calling them at (401) 462-4368.Who needs to bring me for my written test in Rhode Island?
A parent or legal guardian must come in order to sign the permit application.Are physicals required when getting a license in Rhode Island?
No. A physical isn’t required when getting a license in Rhode Island.Does Rhode Island require a vision test before getting a license?
Yes. You must pass a vision exam before getting a license.Where should I go for my driver’s license picture in Rhode Island?
You will have your picture taken at the DMV office.How do I apply for my Rhode Island license?
The first step in applying for your license is getting your learner’s permit. In order to get a permit in Rhode Island you must be at least 16 years old and able to supply:- Proof of birth
- Proof of Social Security Card
- Proof of driver’s education (if under 18)
- Proof of residency
What’s the next step after I apply for my Rhode Island driver’s license?
After you get your permit, you should go ahead and schedule your road test. You must hold the permit for at least 6 months. You must also be getting at least 50 hours of driving experience with a supervising driver with 10 of those hours at night.- Collapse all
How Can I Get Ready for my RI Permit Test? Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I study for the Rhode Island permit test?
You can begin your studying by reading the Rhode Island Driver’s Manual. Everything that will be on the permit test will be in the driver’s manual.What kind of driver’s education should I have when getting my license in Rhode Island?
If you are under 18, you will need to complete a 33 ½ hour driver education course before getting your permit. After you get your permit, you must get a minimum of 50 hours of driving experience with a supervising driver with 10 of those hours at night.Where can I find a Rhode Island driver’s manual?
Download your Rhode Island driver’s manual for FREE.Is it necessary to read the entire Rhode Island driver’s manual for the permit test?
Absolutely. Rhode Island’s driving manual has all of the information you will need to know in order to pass your knowledge test. The chapters will cover things such as:- Basic Driving Skills and Safety Rules
- Signs, Signals and Roadway Markings
- Driving Emergencies
- Sharing the Road Safely
- Drinking and Driving and More
Is there a Rhode Island practice test app for my iPhone/iPad?
Look no further, we’ve got you covered. You can find a Rhode Island iPhone/iPad app here.Can you give examples of questions that will be on the Rhode Island permit test?
Here are the kinds of questions to expect on the Rhode Island permit test.- “You should stop for a stopped school bus____________.”
- “When traveling under 40 miles per hour, you should follow other vehicles _________.”
- “When merging onto the freeway you should __________.”
How is the Rhode Island permit test graded?
There are 50 multiple choice questions on the Rhode Island permit test. You must get at least 40 questions correct in order to pass.Where can I find a free Rhode Island permit practice test online?
The Rhode Island DMV doesn’t offer any practice tests from its site but you may be able to find some practice questions here.Where should I go to take my permit test in Rhode Island?
You should go to a Rhode Island DMV office to take your permit test. You may contact a Rhode Island DMV office by either checking out their website or by calling them at (401) 462-4368.What can I do the night before the Rhode Island permit test?
There’s so much you can do the night before your Rhode Island permit test like:- Review your manual
- Take some practice tests
- Gather necessary documents
What’s the average number of people who pass their Rhode Island permit test the first time?
There are no exact figures; however, those who took the time to study had a much better chance of passing.How can I tell when I’m ready for the Rhode Island permit test?
You will know that you are ready for your permit test when you have read and studied the entire manual.What should I do once I’m ready for my Rhode Island permit test?
Once you are ready for your Rhode Island permit test, you must take proof that you have had at least 33 ½ hours of drivers education along with your birth document, social security card and driver’s license application to a local DMV branch.- Collapse all
Frequently Asked Questions about Taking Your Rhode Island Permit Test
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Where should I go to sign up for my Rhode Island permit test?
You should go to a Rhode Island DMV office when you are ready to take your permit test. You do not need an appointment. Find a list of locations here.When will I be able to get my Rhode Island permit?
If you are under 18, you may get your permit when you are at least 16 years old and have completed 33 ½ hours of drivers education.What documents should I have when I go to take my Rhode Island permit test?
You will need these documents when you go in for your Rhode Island permit test:- Proof of drivers education
- Proof of birth
- Proof of social security card
What’s the cost of a Rhode Island learner’s permit?
A permit for those over 18 is $6.50. Permits for those under 18 costs $11.50.Should my parents bring me for my Rhode Island written test?
Yes. A parent or legal guardian must sign the permit application.When taking the Rhode Island permit test, what do I need to know in order to pass?
You should know about:- Lane positioning for a left or right turn
- Pulling on to a street from the left
- Turn Abouts
- Freeway Driving
- Starting on a Hill
How many questions are there on the Rhode Island permit test?
There are 50 questions on the Rhode Island permit test.How will I know if I’ve passed the Rhode Island permit test?
The permit test is computerized. Once you are finished, it will let you know if you have passed or not. You must get 40 out of 50 questions correct.How many questions am I allowed to get wrong on the Rhode Island written test?
Don’t miss more than 10 questions. You must answer at least 40 out of 50 questions correctly.What common mistakes are made on the Rhode Island permit test?
The most common mistake is made when applicants don’t read the driver’s manual.Will I be allowed to use the manual on the Rhode Island permit test?
No. You are not allowed to use the manual on the Rhode Island permit test.Will I have to get a drug test when getting a permit in Rhode Island?
No. You don’t need a drug test in order to get a permit in Rhode Island.Where can I see some feedback from people who have already passed their Rhode Island permit test?
See Facebook comments after any of our RI Practice Tests -- those comments were written by real people who either took the test or are planning to do so.What happens if I fail the Rhode Island permit test?
If you don’t pass, you don’t get the permit. You will have to plan to take it again when you are ready.Can I retake the Rhode Island permit test if I fail?
Yes. You may be able to take it again as early as the next day.Who is allowed in the car with me if I only have a Rhode Island permit?
Your supervising licensed driver must be in the car with you at all times.What restrictions will be on my Rhode Island license after I get it?
After you get your license, there will be a few restrictions on it. If under 18, you must not drive without supervision between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Restrictions automatically expire when you turn 18.May I drive anywhere in Rhode Island with a learner’s permit?
Yes, as long as you are with a licensed driver who has had their license for at least 5 years.After I pass my Rhode Island permit test, what happens?
Great! Now that you have passed your permit test, you’ll receive your instructional permit. You will have to hold it at least 6 months before you can apply for your license.- Collapse all
Getting Ready for Your Rhode Island Road Test: FAQ
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What is the smartest way to prepare for the Rhode Island road test?
Part of preparing includes getting at least 50 hours of driving experience with a supervising driver. When preparing for the road test, some say they did best by beginning their practice on Sundays when traffic wasn’t as heavy.Where’s the best place to practice for the Rhode Island road test?
You can begin by practicing on roads you are familiar with. You should then begin driving on more challenging roads and highways so that you can be well exposed to different driving conditions.Where can I find a driving school in Rhode Island
You can find good driving schools online or in your phone book. Check out driving schools like Joan’s Driving School and Behind the Wheel and Beyond, Inc.Where is the easiest DMV office to take my Rhode Island road test?
The easiest location will be the one nearest you.What should I bring with me on the day of the Rhode Island driving exam?
On the day of your exam be sure to have:- Original Rhode Island instructional permit
- Valid Rhode Island Insurance
- Signed and notarized affidavit of 50 hours driving experience (if under 18)
- Proof of valid inspection sticker
- License of the supervising license driver
- Proof of Rhode Island Registration
What kind of things will I be expected to do on the Rhode Island road test?
The test includes pre-driving procedures, driving in traffic, parking and making safe left and right turns.Is there anything I should do the night before the Rhode Island road test?
We always suggest that you get one more good practice drive in. After that, be sure to have all of the documents that you need.Do I need to schedule a road test in Rhode Island?
Yes. You should schedule a road test appointment when you get your permit. You can schedule them at any DMV branch. The road test is prepaid.Where should I go for my Rhode Island driving test?
When the time comes for you to take your road test, you will go to a local DMV office. You will need to schedule an appointment. You can find a list of locations here.Will the Rhode Island DMV office supply me with a car for the road test?
No. You must supply your own car. The car must be properly insured, registered and inspected. If the legal owner of the car doesn’t come with you for the exam, you are required to have a notarized letter saying that you have permission to drive the car.- Collapse all
Taking Your Road Test (Driving Exam) in Rhode Island: Frequently Asked Questions
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Can anyone take me for my road test in Rhode Island?
A licensed driver may bring you. If the owner of the vehicle is not present, you must have a notarized statement from them saying it is ok for you to use their vehicle.What tips will help me to pass my Rhode Island road test the first time?
For great tips on passing, check out the Parent’s Supervised Licensed Guide. It gives a great list of all of the things you should know in order to pass such as:- Moving, Steering and Stopping
- Driving on a quiet street
- Multi-Lane Roads
- City Driving
- Turning Around
- Looking Ahead
What should I keep in mind when taking the road test in Rhode Island?
Keep in mind that you will be asked to perform every day driving maneuvers. You will be asked to do things like change lanes, merge with other traffic, and make turns.
Be sure that the examiner sees you using your mirrors and looking over your shoulder. When you approach a stop sign, always come to a complete stop.What common mistakes would cause me to fail the Rhode Island road test?
These are the grounds of immediate failure on your road test.- Leaving the designated roadway
- Dangerous actions
- Rolling stop
- A collision
What will I be expected to do on the Rhode Island road test?
After the examiner inspects your vehicle, you will need to show the examiner that you know how to handle a vehicle in everyday driving conditions.Will there be Parallel Parking on the Rhode Island road test?
Yes, you will have to parallel park.Do I need to wear my contacts/glasses on the Rhode Island road test?
Yes, you do. You are required to wear them if you normally use them to see with.Can I have someone else in the car with me during my Rhode Island road test?
No other passengers are allowed in the car with you during the road test.What happens if I fail my Rhode Island driving exam several times?
If you fail the driving exam, you will have to retake it again in 30 days.- Collapse all
I Have Passed the RI Road Test! What’s Next? Frequently Asked Questions
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What is going to happen after I pass my Rhode Island road test?
Job well done! After you pass your test, you will be issued your license.Will there be any limitations on my Rhode Island driver’s license after I get it?
If you are under 18, you will receive your provisional license.
With that license there’s no driving between 1AM and 5AM unless you are with a supervising licensed driver.Is there anything I should keep in mind when driving in Rhode Island for the first time?
When driving in Rhode Island for the first time, remember these things:- Avoid Skidding
- Watch for big trucks
- Always wear a safety belt
What is the best type of car insurance to get in Rhode Island?
At a minimum, you must carry liability insurance. The insurance company must be licensed to do business in the State of Rhode Island.Do I need to supply anything in order to get car insurance in Rhode Island?
You will of course need to supply basic information about your car and yourself. You will need to provide proof of address and your driver’s license information. Discounts can be given for driver’s education, safety devices, low mileage, and anti-theft devices.How much is car insurance in Rhode Island?
The average cost of car insurance in Rhode Island is $1747 compared to national average of $1790.Where can I find the best car insurance in Rhode Island?
Here are the best car insurance companies on average in Rhode Island:- Amica Insurance
- Eerie
- State Farm
- The Hartford
Why does car insurance cost more with a new license in Rhode Island?
Car insurance rates are based on your territory, gender, age, prior insurance coverage, type of coverage, make and model of vehicle and use of vehicle.- Collapse all
I Have Failed My Rhode Island Road Test! What’s Next? Frequently Asked Questions
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When can I retake the Rhode Island road test if I fail?
You must wait at least 30 days before you can take it again.If I fail my Rhode Island road test, what happens?
If you happen to fail your road test, you must wait at least 30 days to take it again.- Collapse all
How Can I Renew My Driver’s License In RI? Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I renew my Rhode Island driver’s license?
You may renew your license in person at a DMV branch during normal business hours. The renewal fee is $30 and your license is valid for 5years.Where should I go to renew my Rhode Island driver’s license?
You may renew your license in person at any DMV branch during normal business hours. You must also bring your Social Security Card.Do I need to take the written test again when I go to renew my license in Rhode Island?
No. You aren’t required to take the written test again.- Collapse all
I’m Moving to Rhode Island! Frequently Asked Questions
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Is there a road test when I move to Rhode Island from another state, for example Alaska?
When you move to Rhode Island, you have to transfer your license at the Cranston Headquarters. Contact them by phone at (401) 462-4368. They are open Monday through Friday 8AM until 3:15PM. No road test is needed.Is my out-of-state learner’s permit valid in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island will accept any valid learner’s permit. You must follow the laws from your home state.Can I drive in Rhode Island with my out-of-state license?
Yes. Once you become a resident you must transfer your out of state license.May I drive in Rhode Island with my out-of-country license?
If you are going to be in Rhode Island temporarily, you may use your valid out of country license. It would be good to also have an International Learners Permit. If you are going to be in Rhode Island for a year or more, you will need to obtain a Rhode Island license.How can I find out more information about driving in Rhode Island?
Find out more about driving in Rhode Island by contacting a Rhode Island DMV office or you may call them at (401) 462-4368.- Collapse all
General Questions About RI Driving License
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When is it legal to drive in the state of Rhode Island?
It is legal to drive once you have a learner’s permit. The minimum age to get a permit in Rhode Island is 16.What is the legal limit for drinking and driving in Rhode Island?
Just like in many other places, Rhode Island has a zero tolerance for DUI drivers under age 21. The BAC limit is 0.08% for people over age 21 and a .02% limit for drivers under 21.- Collapse all
Here’s What Other Learners from RI are Saying:
"This website is super helpful, I recommend it to everyone going to take their permit. Read the book, and do the practice exams and make sure you have a pretty good grip on them. Honestly it’s not bad at all, so don’t be nervous, relax practice and go A’s this TEST!!!! Best wishes to everyone!!!!"
Wendy Rych, RI
General Knowledge
Hazardous Materials (HazMat)
School Bus/Passenger Vehicles
Air Brake
Combination Vehicles
Double/Triple Trailers
Tanker Vehicles
Pre-Trip Inspection
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Getting ready to become a new driver in the state of Rhode Island? Start preparing for your driver’s permit exam today using the handy study resources below. This page even has information for individuals who are interested in obtaining their Rhode Island motorcycle permit. The official online RI License Guide, RI Driver’s Handbook, and RI Motorcycle Handbook serve as study guides for new drivers who visit this page. Below you will also find 5 FREE RI driver’s permit practice tests as well as a RI motorcycle permit practice test. These practice tests are almost identical to the ones used by the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles to determine permit eligibility. Take advantage of these free resources and get prepared to ace your permit exam!