As you age, staying mobile and independent is important—but so is understanding the rules for keeping your driver’s license current. Rhode Island has special license renewal requirements for seniors to help ensure safety on the road. Here’s a quick guide to what older drivers in the Ocean State need to know about renewing their license.
Renewal Frequency and Age Requirements
- Ages 72–74: If you are 72 or older, your next license renewal will be prorated to expire on your 75th birthday. This means your renewal period may be shorter than the standard five years, depending on your age at renewal.
- Ages 75 and Older: Once you turn 75, you must renew your driver’s license every two years instead of every five years.
Renewal Process
- How to Renew: Seniors can renew in person at any DMV branch, by mail, or online (if eligible). In-person renewal may be required if a vision or medical check is needed.
- What to Bring: Your current license and a completed Driver’s License Renewal form. If your license is lost, check the DMV’s list of acceptable alternative documents.
- Temporary License: If you renew in person or by mail, you’ll receive a temporary license valid for 90 days while your permanent license is processed.
REAL ID for Seniors
- REAL ID is optional for driving but will be required for boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities after May 7, 2025.
- If your license has a gold star, it is already REAL ID-compliant. First-time REAL ID upgrades must be done in person with required documents.
Fees
- The standard fee for a senior license renewal (age 75 and older) is $32 for two years.
Testing and Medical Requirements
- Vision Test: May be required if there are concerns about your ability to drive safely.
- Road Test: Only required if your license has been expired for more than five years or if there are specific concerns about your driving.
Grace Period and Penalties
- No Grace Period: Rhode Island does not offer a grace period for expired licenses. Driving with an expired license can result in fines or other penalties.
Summary Table: Senior License Renewal in Rhode Island
| Age Group | Renewal Interval | Fee | Method | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72–74 | Prorated to 75 | Varies | Online/mail/in-person | License expires at 75th birthday |
| 75+ | Every 2 years | $32 | Online/mail/in-person | Vision/medical checks may apply |
Seniors in Rhode Island must renew their license every two years starting at age 75, and should be aware of vision or medical check requirements. Be sure to renew on time—there’s no grace period for expired licenses. For more details or to access forms, visit the Rhode Island DMV website.
Sources:
- https://dmv.ri.gov/licenses-permits-ids/drivers-licenses/license-renewal
- https://dmv.ri.gov/licenses-permits-ids/real-id
- https://www.robertecravenlaw.com/do-all-elderly-drivers-in-rhode-island-get-their-drivers-license-suspended-or-face-restrictions/
- https://zutobi.com/us/ri-car/driver-guides/rhode-island-drivers-license-renewal