How to Get a Rhode Island Driver’s License Reinstatement
A Rhode Island driver’s license reinstatement costs $150 on average, but your process for reinstatement depends on your specific offense.
Written by Macy Fouse
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Having your
Rhode Island
driver’s license reinstated may be as simple as paying your fines and the reinstatement fee of $150, but your specific requirements will depend on your offense since Rhode Island considers each case on an individual basis.Losing your driver’s license is extremely inconvenient, and you’ll probably want to get it back as soon as possible. In some instances, you can simply pay a reinstatement fee and get back to driving, but this will depend on the severity of the original offense, and the rules differ from state to state.
In Rhode Island, a license reinstatement fee is usually $150 or $350, but the rules can vary. That’s why
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Why you might need a license reinstatement in Rhode Island
You can get your Rhode Island driver’s license suspended or revoked for several different reasons. You can get your license suspended for driving under the influence or getting three reckless driving charges within one year, for example. A revoked license is usually the result of using a vehicle to commit a felony.
When your Rhode Island license has been suspended, you won’t regain your driving privileges automatically after your suspension period ends. In Rhode Island, they consider each case on an individual basis, so your restoration requirements will vary.
License reinstatements are handled by the
Adjudication Unit
of the DMV in Rhode Island, which you can reach in person or by phone at (401) 462-0800.How to get a license reinstatement in Rhode Island
Since Rhode Island considers each license reinstatement case individually, it can be hard to nail down the exact process. In general, though, you can probably expect the following requirements:
- Fulfill your suspension period
- Satisfy any court requirements
- Pay off all fines and fees
- Pay the driver’s license reinstatement fee of $150 ($352.50 for alcohol-related suspensions)
- Retake a driving test
- Complete a defensive driving program, if applicable
- Attend alcohol treatment, if required
- Install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, if applicable
To get your specific requirements, you’ll probably need to meet with a hearing officer in person at the Rhode Island DMV Adjudication office at the following address:
600 New London Ave
Cranston, RI 02920
Be sure to bring any required documents and fees when you head to the DMV.
Revocations
If your Rhode Island license was revoked, the process to have it reinstated will largely be the same as the process for a suspended license. The requirements will also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Key Takeaway You can only find out your requirements for license reinstatement by meeting with a hearing officer at the Rhode Island DMV Adjudication Office.
MORE: 9 common reasons your license can be revoked
How to get a hardship license in Rhode Island
Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a major offense in Rhode Island, but it can be difficult to get to work without a vehicle. That’s why they grant certain drivers with alcohol-related cases a hardship license, which allows them a set 12-hour period each day when they can drive to and from work.
Rhode Island does not have hardship licenses like other states—they only grant
hardship licenses
in conjunction with a mandatory installation of an interlock ignition device. If you’re given a hardship license and an interlock device, you have to report it to the Adjudication Office immediately so they can add it to your license. If you report it too late, you’ll likely have to explain the delay in court. Hardship licenses come with a $100 fee, and the interlock provider may have their own fees you must pay. Finally, you’ll also be required to pay a fee of $27.50 to update your driver’s license with your new restrictions.
When can you apply for a hardship license?
Rhode Island only grants hardship licenses with interlock devices to alcohol-related offenses, and even then it’s not a given. To be eligible, you must fit the following requirements:
- You were sentenced by a judge or magistrate on a DUI
- You must get an ignition interlock device installed on your car
- You have to provide proof of employment and hours of employment
What is an SR-22 certificate?
If your driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, you typically have to file for an
SR-22 certificate
through your insurance company. Often called SR-22 insurance, these documents serve as legal proof that you meet the state's minimum insurance requirements
.Rhode Island does not require an SR-22 across the board for any driving offense, even serious ones. However, having an SR-22 after a license suspension or revocation can make it easier to get insurance coverage once you get your license reinstated.
MORE: How to fill out and file an SR-22
How to save money on car insurance in Rhode Island
If you have license suspension on your record, finding the best insurance could be complicated. Insurance companies also vary pretty drastically when it comes to calculating your premium, too, so it’s extra important to shop around and compare all of your options.
Forget making phone calls or filling out tedious forms—the
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