New to Rhode Island? How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License

Welcome to the Ocean State! As you settle into your new life in Rhode Island, one of the most important administrative steps is obtaining a local driver's license. While you can drive with a valid foreign license as a visitor, state law requires you to get a Rhode Island license once you establish residency.

The process of transferring a foreign license at the RI Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can seem complex, but this guide will break it down into simple, actionable steps. We will cover residency rules, crucial reciprocity agreements that can save you time and effort, all the necessary documentation, and the tests you will need to take.

Step 1: Understand Residency and Reciprocity Rules

The first step is to determine how Rhode Island's laws apply to your specific situation, which is largely dependent on your country of origin.

Establishing Rhode Island Residency

If you move to Rhode Island, you have 30 days after establishing residency to obtain a Rhode Island driver's license. You are considered a resident if you have a permanent home in the state, are registered to vote, are employed, or have children attending school in RI.

Reciprocity Agreements: The Key to Waiving Tests

This is the most critical piece of information for many international newcomers. Rhode Island has reciprocity agreements with several countries, which can significantly simplify the licensing process by waiving the most challenging test.

• Countries with Reciprocity: Rhode Island has full driver's license reciprocity agreements with France, Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan.
• What This Means for You: If you hold a valid, unexpired non-commercial (Class D equivalent) driver's license from one of these four countries, the DMV will waive the driving skills test (road test). You will, however, still be required to pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test (also called the computer-based test).
• All Other Countries: If your driver's license is from any country not on the reciprocity list, you must complete the entire licensing process as if you were a brand-new driver. This includes passing the vision, written, and full on-road driving skills tests.

Step 2: Assemble Your Essential Documents

The RI DMV has very strict documentation requirements to prove your identity, legal presence, and residency. All documents must be original or certified copies. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Required Documentation Checklist:

1. Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: You must be prepared to surrender your physical, valid license from your home country.
   • Certified Translation: If your license is not in English, you MUST provide a certified translation. The translation must be from a DMV-approved translator. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can sometimes serve this purpose, but it's best to confirm with the DMV.
2. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence: This is a crucial step. For non-U.S. citizens, you will typically need a combination of the following:
   • A valid, unexpired Foreign Passport with your signature.
   • A valid, unexpired U.S. Visa and your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
   • A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
3. Proof of Social Security Number: You must present your original Social Security card. If you are not eligible for a Social Security Number, you must obtain an original letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating your ineligibility.
4. Proof of Rhode Island Residency: You must provide two documents that prove you live at a physical address in Rhode Island. PO Boxes are not accepted. Common examples include:
   • Utility bills (electric, gas, water) dated within the last 60 days.
   • A current, signed lease or rental agreement.
   • Bank or credit card statements mailed to your RI address.
   • Payroll stubs showing your address.
5. Completed Application Form (LI-1): You can get this form at the DMV or download it from their website to fill out in advance.

Step 3: The Licensing and Testing Process

With your documents in hand, you must make an appointment to visit a DMV location (typically the main office in Cranston for these transactions).

For Reciprocal Countries (France, Germany, S. Korea, Taiwan):

1. Make a DMV Appointment: Schedule your visit online.
2. Present Documents: Provide all the required documentation from the checklist above.
3. Pass the Vision Test: An examiner will check your eyesight to ensure it meets state safety standards.
4. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass the computer-based test on Rhode Island traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The Rhode Island Driver's Manual is your essential study guide.
5. Surrender License and Pay Fees: Once you pass, you will surrender your foreign license and pay the required fees for your new RI license.
6. Receive Your License: You will receive a temporary paper license, and your permanent photo license will be mailed to you.

For All Other (Non-Reciprocal) Countries:

1. Apply for a Learner's Permit: You must first pass the vision test and the written knowledge test. Upon passing, you will be issued a Rhode Island Learner's Permit.
2. Schedule and Pass the Road Test: With your permit, you can now schedule your on-road driving skills test. This test will include maneuvers like parallel parking, a three-point turn, and backing up.
3. Get Your License: After successfully passing the road test, you will return to the DMV (this may require another appointment), surrender your learner's permit and foreign license, pay the fees, and be issued your full Rhode Island driver's license.

By meticulously gathering your documents and understanding the process for your specific situation, you can confidently navigate the steps to becoming a legally licensed driver in Rhode Island.