How To Do a Rhode Island DMV Change of Address

If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Rhode Island then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you’ll be required to get your Rhode Island DMV Change of Address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and your vehicle’s registration, if applicable.

It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Rhode Island requires that you file your change of address paperwork within 30 days of establishing residency, you’ll want to have a plan in place for what you need to do.

Not sure where to start? We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to complete your Rhode Island DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to a Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles office to get started.

If You’re Moving to Rhode Island from Another State

Will you need to get a new driver’s license if moving to Rhode Island from another state?

How do you get one?

To get a Rhode Island driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you’ll have to go to a Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles office in person, since unfortunately you can’t do a Rhode Island DMV change of address online or over the phone.

Per the rules in most states, expect that Rhode Island driver’s licenses for new residents to the state are only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the RI DMV or an outside court.

You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit the RI DMV:

    • Completed Application for License/ID/Permit (Form LI-1)
    • Proof of identity
    • Proof of residency (two documents)
    • Proof of social security
    • Current out-of-state driver’s license

    To see the list of accepted documents for a new Rhode Island driver’s license, scroll down on the License/ID/Permit application.

    Note that if your name does not match the name on the documents showing proof of identity then you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.

    Is there a fee?

    Yes. The fee for a new, non-commercial driver’s license in Rhode Island is $39.50, though costs may vary in some instances. See a complete breakdown of fees here.

    Does a Rhode Island DMV change of address require a driving test?

    No, provided you have a current and valid out-of-state driver’s license. If your license has been expired for a year or more though, you will be required to pass a permit test, computerized driver’s license test, and road test.

    How long do you have to get a Rhode Island driver’s license or ID card?

    Rhode Island provide new residents with 30 days after establishing residency to get their state driver’s license. Head to the RI DMV if you plan to:

      • Live in Rhode Island for at least 7 months out of the year
      • Register to vote in Rhode Island
      • Work in Rhode Island
      • Run a business out of Rhode Island

      How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?

      Within 30 days of establishing residency.

      How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Rhode Island?

      There are a couple of steps to complete to transfer your out of state vehicle’s registration to Rhode Island.

      1. Get a VIN check. All out-of-state vehicles that are model year 2001 or newer will be required to get a VIN check. Here’s how to do it.

      2. Visit a Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles office.

      Make sure to bring along the following documents:

        • Completed Application for Registration (Form TR-1)
        • Completed Tax Exemption Certificate
        • Completed Sales Tax Exemption Affidavit
        • Proof of Rhode Island car insurance
        • Original title for car models 2001 and newer
        • Rhode Island driver’s license
        • Proof of ownership (for non-titled vehicles)
        • Power of attorney (for leased vehicles)

        Bring your VIN check documentation as well.

        What is the registration fee?

        Costs vary. See a fee breakdown here.

        If You’re Moving Within Rhode Island

        Rhode Island requires that you update your driver’s license within just 10 days with your new address when moving within the state (and no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it).

        You have two primary options for updating your address on your Rhode Island driver’s license:

        1. Online. Visit Rhode Island’s Change of Address system and fill out the information.

        2. By mail. Send your completed change of address form to: Division of Motor Vehicles, ATTN: Address Change, 600 New London Ave., Cranston, RI 02920-3024.

        How much does a Rhode Island change of address cost?

        An update to your Rhode Island address with the DMV is free, but you’ll need to pay $27.50 if you want a replacement driver’s license with your new address.

        What information do you need to provide to update your address on your driver’s license?

        To change your address on your Rhode Island driver’s license or identification card, you will need to provide:

          • Completed Change of Address Form
          • Date of birth
          • Driver’s license number and issue date

          What information do you need to provide to update your vehicle registration?

          When you apply online or through the mail for your change of address on your driver’s license, you will also be able to apply to update your vehicle registration, so follow the same steps above.

          Will Rhode Island issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?

          Not unless you want one.

          If You’re Moving From Rhode Island to Another State

          Do you need to notify the state of Rhode Island if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?

          Only if you are moving temporarily and do not intend to apply for a license in your new state. Otherwise, Rhode Island will automatically cancel your RI driver’s license when you get your new card.

          Do you need to notify the state of Rhode Island if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?

          Do you need to return your Rhode Island license plates?

          Yes. After registering your vehicle in your new state, ship your plates to Division of Motor Vehicles, ATTN: Plates, 600 New London Ave., Cranston, RI 02920-3024.

          Have any questions?

          If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Rhode Island, contact the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles at (401) 462-4368. You are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready when you call.

          Need to hire movers for your move to, from, or within the state of Rhode Island?

          We can help you out with that! Use Moving.com to quickly and easily search for reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Rhode Island move will cost.