Expired Registration in Rhode Island
Rhode Island residents are mandated by law to have a valid vehicle registration when operating vehicles on public roads and highways. The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles administers all vehicle registration programs and procedures statewide, while the Rhode Island State Police enforces compliance with registration laws on the state's roadways.
State Code Provisions in Rhode Island
Rhode Island's vehicle registration requirements are governed by Title 31 of the Rhode Island General Laws. Chapter 31-3 specifically addresses registration procedures, renewal requirements, display of registration plates, and penalties for violations. Section 31-8-1 establishes specific penalties for operating vehicles without valid registration evidence. These provisions establish the framework for registration processes, renewal requirements, penalties for non-compliance, and enforcement methods throughout Rhode Island.
Registration Terms and Expiration in Rhode Island
Registration Renewal System
Rhode Island operates under a staggered registration system for motor vehicles. According to Section 31-3-32, the Director of the Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles, implements a staggered registration system through administrative rules and regulations.
Standard Vehicle Registration:
- Most vehicle registrations historically expired on March 31 each year under the original statute
- Rhode Island has transitioned to a staggered registration system where expiration dates are assigned throughout the year based on administrative rules
- Individual vehicle registration periods vary by registration type, with some registrations issued for two-year periods
- Registrations expire at midnight on the assigned expiration date for each vehicle
There is no grace period for expired vehicle registration in Rhode Island. Operating a vehicle with expired registration constitutes an immediate violation of Section 31-8-1.
Special Vehicle Categories:
- Apportioned Vehicles: Vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan expire on May 31 each year according to Section 31-3-32
Penalties for Expired Registration in Rhode Island
Administrative Penalties
Rhode Island does not assess a separate administrative late fee for renewing an expired vehicle registration. Vehicle owners may renew expired registrations by paying only the standard registration fees without additional penalties for late renewal.
Traffic Violations
Operating a motor vehicle with expired registration on Rhode Island roadways constitutes a traffic violation under two related statutes, both prosecuted through the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal.
Violations and Penalties:
| Statute | Violation | Fine Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 31-8-1 | Operation of vehicles without evidences of registration | $100.00 |
| 31-3-32 | Driving with expired registration | $100.00 |
These violations are established in the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal fine schedule under Section 31-41.1-4. Both offenses carry identical penalties and are classified as civil traffic violations.
Government Agencies
Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920-3024
Phone: (401) 462-4368
Official Website: Rhode Island DMV
Rhode Island State Police
311 Danielson Pike
North Scituate, RI 02857
Phone: (401) 444-1000
Official Website: Rhode Island State Police
