How to Get a Rhode Island Driver's License
The state of Rhode Island has a graduated driver's license program that requires all new drivers to start driving with a learner's license in order to practice supervised safe driving before obtaining a full driver's license. To get a student's initial permission, you must follow certain steps. Here is a simple guide to getting a Rhode Island driver's license:
Student permission
There are two types of student permits in Rhode Island. The first and most common is the Limited Training Permit, which is issued to drivers between the ages of 16 and 18 who have completed a driving training course. This permit is valid for one year or until the driver turns 18, whichever comes first. After driving with a limited training permit for at least six months, the driver can apply for a provisional driver's license.
The second type of learner's permit is called a learner's permit and is issued to drivers over 18 who have never had a license or whose license has expired for more than five years. Drivers do not need to take a driving course to obtain this permit.
While driving with a limited training permit, drivers must be accompanied at all times by a driver who is at least 21 years old and has a valid driving license for at least five years. During this time, the driver must register 50 hours of supervised driving practice, ten hours of which must take place at night.
How to apply
To apply for a student permit in Rhode Island, the driver must bring the following documents to the DMV during the written exam:
Completed application (for those under 18, this form must be signed by a parent or guardian)
Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or a valid passport.
Proof of a social security number, such as a social security card or Form W-2.
Proof of residence in Rhode Island, such as a current bank statement or mailed bill.
They must also pass an eye test and pay the required amount. There is a fee of $11.50 for a limited education permit; There is a $6.50 fee for a Standard Study Permit.
Exam
Those who apply for the Limited Training Permit take the written exam as part of their driver's license exam and do not need to take the exam again.
Those applying for a standard training permit must pass a written exam that covers all state traffic laws, road signs, and other driver safety information. The test is timed and drivers have 90 minutes to complete it. The Rhode Island DMV provides a Driver's Guide that contains all the information student drivers need to take the written exam. There are also many online practice exams that potential drivers can use to gain the confidence they need to pass the exam.
