Rhode Island Vehicle Registration
Register a Vehicle in Rhode Island
Drivers in Rhode Island are required to register their vehicles through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) whether it was:
- Purchased from a private seller.
- Purchased from a dealership.
- Brought into Rhode Island from another state. New residents have 30 days from establishing residency to register their vehicles. Your car will require inspection within 5 days after registration.
Consider making an appointment with the DMV in advance to skip the line.
NOTE: You must complete a vehicle identification number (VIN) check before registering your vehicle if the model year is 2001 or newer.
How to Register a Rhode Island Vehicle
To register a vehicle, visit your local DMV office and provide your:
- Rhode Island license or ID.
- Bill of sale.
- Completed Application for Registration and Title Certificate (TR-1).
- Gross Vehicle Weight (found on the vehicle identification number (VIN) plate in the driver’s door).
- Power of attorney (if the vehicle is leased).
- Manufacturer’s certificate of origin or original title (if the vehicle model year is 2001 or newer).
- Title must be signed by both buyer and seller if purchased from a private seller. If the vehicle was previously untitled a registration will suffice.
- A photocopy of the title will suffice ONLY if the vehicle was purchased on an out-of-state loan and the lienholder is listed on the title.
- VIN check certificate.
- Gift letter (if the vehicle was gifted to you). This must be notarized and accompanied by a signed affidavit if it was given to you by a non-family member.
- Proof of insurance.
- Completed Use Tax Return (T-334-2) form or dealer provided tax form.
- Payment for the applicable fees and taxes.
If the vehicle in question was brought in from out-of-state by a new Rhode Island resident they may avoid paying sales and use tax by providing a completed:
AND
If there is more than one vehicle owner, all owners must be present for the transaction or the absent wonders signature must be notarized
RI Vehicle Registration Fees
- Title fee: $52.50.
- Passenger vehicle (up to 4000 pounds): $30.
- Commercial vehicles (up to 4000 pounds): $34.
Check the DMV website for a complete list of fees.