What do I need to transfer my out-of-state license to RI? | Ask the DMV
Q: I am moving from New York to Rhode Island. To change my driver's license to Rhode Island, do I need to bring a birth certificate?
— David R.
A: Our website (dmv.ri.gov) has a whole section for people who are moving into Rhode Island from out of state. We have a section in the “License, Permits & IDs” and also the “Registration, Plates & Titles” tabs. I’ve copied and listed below the section from the “License, Permits & IDs” tab, since your question pertained to changing your driver's license.
Your current Out of State License that is valid or has been expired for less than 5 years OR if that is unavailable, a certified driving record from your state showing the issue date, license number, your personal information and expiration date of your out of state license.
FOR REAL ID ONLY — Optional: One (1) proof of identity document, such as a certified copy of a birth certificate filed with a State Office of Vital Statistics or equivalent agency in the individual's State of birth OR an unexpired passport. Proof of name change, such as a government issued marriage license is required if your name differs from your name listed on your identity document.
AND Social Security Number (must be listed on application) OR a letter issued by the Social Security Administration stating the applicant is not eligible to receive a Social Security Number
AND two (2) proof of Rhode Island residency documents, such as a utility bill (gas, electric, telephone, cable, oil, water, sewer, satellite, heat, cell phone) with the address of residence clearly stated in the applicant’s name.
Refer to the third page of the License/ID/Permit Application (Checklist for License/ID Cards/Permits) for a more extensive list of documents accepted to perform this transaction.
NOTE: REAL ID's from other states do NOT automatically transfer from state to state. To obtain a REAL ID, proper documentation needs to be submitted to the RI DMV at the time of your out of state transfer application.
NOTE: All license holders from United States Territories who are seeking to transfer that territory’s license to a RI Driver’s License must appear in person at the Cranston DMV for either verification of the license they possess, or to take the permit examination. These transactions are not performed at DMV satellite offices or AAA branch offices.
We hope this information is helpful to you. Welcome to Rhode Island, and thanks for writing in to the column.
Chuck Hollis is assistant administrator of the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles. Please email your questions to cars@providencejournal.com with “Ask the DMV” in the subject field.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Ask the RI DMV: What do I need to transfer my out-of-state license?
