If you are a senior driver in Rhode Island, there are specific rules and procedures for renewing your driver’s license. Here’s what you need to know:
Renewal Frequency and Age-Based Rules
- Under 72 years old: Licenses are renewed every five years, just like for the general population.
- Age 72 or older: The first renewal after age 72 is prorated to expire at your 75th birthday. This means your license will be valid until you turn 75, regardless of when you renew after age 72.
- Age 75 or older: After you turn 75, you must renew your license every two years.
Renewal Process for Seniors
- In-person renewal required: Senior drivers (specifically, those 68 or older at the time of license expiration, according to some resources, but most official guidance focuses on 75 and older for mandatory in-person renewal) must renew in person at a DMV office. However, the most consistent and current official requirement is for those 75 and older to renew every two years, with in-person renewal likely required at that stage, though some sources suggest in-person renewal may be required for those as young as 68.
- Vision test: A vision test is required at every renewal for all drivers, but especially for seniors.
- Additional tests: At the discretion of DMV personnel, a written test or road test may be required for drivers 75 and older.
- Temporary license: After renewing in person, you’ll receive a temporary paper license valid for 60 days while your new license is mailed to your address.
Documentation and Fees
- Bring your current license: You’ll need your current driver’s license as proof of identity. If it’s lost, bring acceptable alternative documents as listed on the DMV website.
- Completed renewal form: Fill out the Driver’s License Renewal form or the License/ID/Permit Application (LI-1).
- Fee: The fee for renewal is typically $32 for seniors renewing every two years.
Additional Notes
- No grace period: There is no grace period for expired licenses. Driving with an expired license is considered a misdemeanor and can result in fines or jail time.
- Address changes: If you need to update your address, you can do so online or by mail, but this will not generate a new credential unless you request a replacement.
- After 5 years expired: If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must retake both the written and road tests to renew.
Sources:
- https://dmv.ri.gov/licenses-permits-ids/drivers-licenses/license-renewal
- https://rielderinfo.com/transportation-2/
- https://hefflaw.com/2017/12/seniors-and-driving-in-rhode-island/
- https://zutobi.com/us/ri-car/driver-guides/rhode-island-drivers-license-renewal
