Rhode Island DMV Extends July Renewal Deadline, Increases Technology Fee

Rhode Island drivers should be aware of two important updates from the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) this month. First, due to a technical problem with the state’s mailing vendor, July 2025 registration renewal notices were delayed. To ensure that motorists are not penalized for something beyond their control, the DMV has extended the expiration date for July registrations to August 31, 2025. If you received a renewal letter with a passcode, you can still use that code to renew online; the code will remain valid until the end of August. Customers who did not receive a notice can still look up their renewal date using the DMV’s online services or call the DMV for assistance. The extension means that police and inspection stations will consider July tags valid until the end of August, but vehicle owners are encouraged to renew as soon as possible to avoid a last-minute rush.

The DMV also announced that the technology surcharge on motor vehicle transactions increased from $2.50 to $3.50 effective July 1, 2025 as part of the state’s fiscal year 2026 budget. This fee, which is added to every DMV transaction, helps fund the computer systems that support licensing and registration services. Although the increase is modest, it will provide needed resources to maintain the online portals and modernize the DMV’s infrastructure. Other fees and processes remain unchanged, and customers can still renew registrations, replace licenses, and request driving records online or by mail. The DMV continues to urge Rhode Islanders to use the DMV’s online services where possible, and those who need to visit in person should make an appointment through the DMV’s website. With the registration extension and a small technology fee adjustment, the DMV is trying to balance customer convenience with the reality of maintaining state systems.