Car Registration Requirements for New Rhode Island Residents
New residents arriving in Rhode Island with vehicles registered in another state must transfer registration and title to comply with state motor vehicle law. Rhode Island requires completion of title and registration procedures within a specified period after taking up residence in the state.
Timeline for New Rhode Island Residents
New residents must obtain Rhode Island title and registration within 30 days of moving to Rhode Island. This requirement applies to all vehicles brought into the state by individuals establishing residency.
Newly registered vehicles must pass safety and emissions inspection within 5 days of registration. Failure to comply may result in registration suspension.
Establishing Rhode Island Residency
RIGL § 31-3-3 defines residency requirements for vehicle registration. The law requires vehicle owners to provide the city or town of bona fide residence and actual residence address as shown on the motor vehicle operator's license or state identification card. Residency is determined by where an individual maintains a primary dwelling and conducts regular activities indicating permanent settlement.
Required Documentation for Car Registration in Rhode Island
New residents must submit documentation, including proof of ownership, insurance, and identification, to register vehicles brought into the state.
Essential Documents
The following items are required for the title and registration:
- Original out-of-state title properly assigned (must be obtained from lienholder if applicable)
- Completed TR-1 form - Application for Registration and Title Certificate
- VIN Verification form (TR-5) completed by local police department
- Valid Rhode Island insurance in owner's or lessee's name
- Rhode Island driver's license or out-of-state license with one proof of Rhode Island residency
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (found on Certificate of Origin or VIN plate)
- Transferring In From Out-Of-State Tax form (Form SU-NR-1)
Insurance Coverage
Rhode Island requires minimum liability insurance coverage for all registered motor vehicles. Coverage must meet the following minimum amounts:
| Coverage Type | Minimum Required |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury per Person | $25,000 |
| Bodily Injury per Accident | $50,000 |
| Property Damage | $25,000 |
Application Submission Methods
New residents complete title and registration at the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles headquarters in Cranston or at branch offices in Middletown, Wakefield, or Woonsocket. Applications may also be submitted by mail to the DMV at 600 New London Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920.
Rhode Island Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Rhode Island mandates safety and emissions testing for most registered vehicles. New residents must obtain inspections after completing registration.
Safety Inspections
Light duty vehicles and trucks up to 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating require safety inspections every 24 months. Heavy-duty vehicles over 8,500 pounds GVWR require annual safety inspections.
Inspection fees are $55 for combined safety and emissions testing for vehicles 8,500 pounds or less.
New vehicles are exempt from inspection for 2 years from the purchase date or until accumulating 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Emission Testing
Light-duty vehicles and trucks with a GVWR of 8,500 pounds or less registered in Rhode Island are required to undergo emissions testing every 24 months. Fully electric vehicles are exempt from emissions testing but must pass a safety inspection.
Registration Fees and Costs in Rhode Island
Rhode Island calculates registration fees based on vehicle weight and type. Fee amounts vary depending on gross vehicle weight rating.
Passenger Vehicle Registration Fees
Passenger vehicle registration fees are based on vehicle weight for two-year registration periods. Fees include a $3.50 technology surcharge and a DOT surcharge.
Additional Fees and Costs
Beyond base registration, vehicle owners pay:
- Title fee: $53.50
- VIN inspection: $4 (at time of registration if required)
- Safety and emissions inspection: $55 for vehicles 8,500 pounds or less
- Sales tax on vehicle transfers (payable to Rhode Island Division of Taxation)
Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Fees
Starting in 2026, additional annual fees apply to qualifying vehicles:
- Battery Electric Vehicles: $200 per year
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles: $100 per year
- Hybrid Vehicles (non-plug-in): $50 per year
Contact Information
Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles
600 New London Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: (401) 462-4368
Rhode Island DMV
