Government & DMV
DMV, licenses, registrations, and Rhode Island government services.
43 articles
Rhode Island small business licenses guide
Rhode Island small businesses typically need a business registration through the Secretary of State's office, a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and various state and local licenses depending on their industry and location. Most businesses register online through the RI Business Portal at business.ri.gov, with costs ranging from $50 for a sole proprietorship to $150 for LLC formation. Additional licenses and permits may be required from the Department of Business Regulation, Department of Health, or individual municipalities like Providence, Warwick, or Cranston.
How to transfer a car title in Rhode Island
To transfer a car title in Rhode Island, the seller must sign the back of the title over to the buyer. The buyer then brings the signed title, their RI driver's license, proof of insurance, and payment to a DMV office to complete the transfer and register the vehicle. Rhode Island charges a $6 title fee plus 7% sales tax on the purchase price. The transfer must be completed within 30 days of purchase.
Rhode Island enhanced driver's license guide
Rhode Island does not currently offer enhanced driver's licenses (EDLs). While several states including New York, Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and Washington provide EDLs as an alternative to passports for land and sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, Rhode Island has not implemented this program. Rhode Island residents who need identification for international travel must obtain a standard passport, passport card, or rely on their regular Rhode Island driver's license combined with other acceptable travel documents.
How to fight a traffic ticket in Rhode Island
To fight a traffic ticket in Rhode Island, you must enter a "not guilty" plea within 20 days of receiving the citation, either online through the Rhode Island Judiciary's Traffic Tribunal portal, by mail, or in person at one of the five Traffic Tribunal locations statewide. Your case will then be scheduled for a hearing before a judge or magistrate at the Traffic Tribunal, where you'll present your defense and evidence. The Traffic Tribunal handles all moving violations in Rhode Island, with main locations in Providence, Warwick, Newport, Middletown, and Woonsocket.
How to register a boat in Rhode Island
To register a boat in Rhode Island, you must submit an application to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Division of Law Enforcement either online, by mail to 235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908, or in person at their office. All motorized vessels and sailboats over 14 feet used on Rhode Island waters must be registered. Registration costs $32 for boats under 16 feet, $47 for boats 16-26 feet, $62 for boats 26-40 feet, and $78 for boats over 40 feet, and is valid for two years.
How to apply for Rhode Island SNAP benefits
To apply for Rhode Island SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps), you can submit an application online through the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) portal at dhs.ri.gov, visit a DHS office in person, or mail/fax a paper application. The fastest method is applying online through the Rhode Island Works portal, where you'll create an account, complete the application, and upload required documents such as proof of income, identification, and residency. Processing typically takes up to 30 days, though expedited service (within 7 days) is available for eligible households with urgent needs.
How to get a passport in Rhode Island
Rhode Island residents can obtain a passport by applying at one of the state's 24 designated passport acceptance facilities, which include post offices, town halls, and libraries throughout the state. You'll need to submit Form DS-11 in person, provide proof of citizenship, valid photo identification, a passport photo, and pay the required fees ($130 for an adult passport book, or $100 for minors under 16, plus a $35 execution fee). Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks for routine service, though expedited options are available for an additional fee.
Rhode Island property tax exemptions guide
Rhode Island offers several property tax exemptions that can significantly reduce your annual tax bill, including exemptions for veterans, elderly homeowners (age 65+), disabled individuals, and surviving spouses. The most common exemptions include the Homestead Tax Credit (up to $1,000 annually), Veterans' Exemptions (ranging from $1,000 to $45,000 depending on disability rating), and the Elderly Exemption (available to homeowners 65+ with income limitations). Applications must be filed with your local city or town tax assessor's office, typically by specific deadlines that vary by municipality.
Rhode Island license plate types guide 2026
Rhode Island offers over a dozen different license plate types in 2026, including standard Ocean State plates, specialty plates like the Wave design, organizational plates supporting various causes, and specialized classifications for veterans, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, and disabled persons. All plates are issued through the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with most standard plates costing $82.50 for a two-year registration, while specialty and organizational plates typically require additional fees ranging from $42.50 to $67.50 per year on top of regular registration costs.
Rhode Island unemployment benefits guide 2026
Rhode Island unemployment benefits in 2026 are administered through the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT), with weekly benefit amounts ranging from $59 to $586 depending on your earnings history. You must file your claim online at dlt.ri.gov or call 401-415-6772, and eligible claimants can receive up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment insurance benefits. To qualify, you must have earned sufficient wages during your base period, be able and available for work, and actively seek employment each week.
How to get a duplicate RI driver's license
To get a duplicate Rhode Island driver's license, you must visit a DMV branch in person with proper identification and pay a $31.50 fee. You cannot request a duplicate license online or by mail. The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles has locations in Cranston, Woonsocket, and seasonal hours at other sites, with the main Cranston office at 600 New London Avenue operating Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
How to get a RI parking placard for disability
To get a Rhode Island disability parking placard, you need to obtain a completed Application for Persons with Disabilities Parking Placard (form AA-33) signed by a licensed physician, chiropractor, physician assistant, or ARNP, then submit it to any Rhode Island DMV branch along with proof of Rhode Island residency. There is no fee for the placard, which is valid for up to six years depending on whether your disability is temporary or permanent. You can visit DMV branches in Cranston, Woonsocket, or the AAA locations in Warwick and Middletown that provide DMV services.