Out of state drivers — Rhode Island Permit Test

A new resident whose out-of-state license is valid, or has been expired for no more than 5 years, does not have to take the knowledge exam or the driving skills test.

Retesting every driver who moves in would fill the test lots with people who already know how to drive.

If your out-of-state license is currently valid or has not been expired for more than five (5) years, you will not be required to take a computerized knowledge exam or a driving skills test.

If your license is suspended in another state, you must clear it with that state before applying for a Rhode Island license.

Without this, a driver could escape a suspension just by moving across the state line.

If your license to operate a motor vehicle is suspended in any other state, you must address this issue with that state prior to applying for a Rhode Island license.

When you transfer an out-of-state license, you must surrender the out-of-state license.

A driver holding two valid licenses could spread tickets across them and dodge the point system.

Upon applying for the transfer, you must also present and surrender your out-of-state license.

Restrictions and endorsements on an out-of-state license, such as a motorcycle endorsement, carry over to the new Rhode Island license.

A rider who lost the motorcycle endorsement in a move would have to test all over again.

Any restrictions or endorsements you may have had on your out-of-state license (for example, a motorcycle endorsement) will be transferred to your new Rhode Island license with an equivalent restriction/endorsement.

A former Rhode Island license holder whose license has been expired no more than 5 years does not need to retake the knowledge exam or the skills test.

A driver who left for a few years and came back already proved what the tests check.

If you have previously held a Rhode Island license, and it has not expired for more than five (5) years, you will not be required to take a computerized knowledge exam or a driving skills test.

A license transferred from another state is valid for up to two years, expiring on your second birthday after you get it, and can then be renewed for 5 years.

A new resident who thinks the first card lasts as long as a renewal drives on an expired license.

The license will be valid for up to two years, expiring on your second birthday from the time you obtain your Rhode Island license.

Your out-of-state license has expired. Up to how many years expired can it be and still spare you both Rhode Island tests?

5 years. Retesting every driver who moves in would fill the test lots with people who already know how to drive. Rhode Island Driver’s Manual, p.16: “If your out-of-state license is currently valid or has not been expired for more than five (5) years, you will not be required to take a computerized knowledge exam or a driving skills test.”