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.

For some drivers, all you need to do to reinstate your Rhode Island driver’s license is pay a reinstatement fee.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to retake your driving exam, undergo court-ordered treatment, or install an ignition interlock device.
In Rhode Island, a license reinstatement fee is usually $150 or $350, but the rules can vary based on your circumstances.

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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, including:

Failure to stop for a school bus

Refusal to take a breathalyzer test

Driving while impaired or driving under the influence

Committing a felony with a motor vehicle

Reckless driving

Showing a disregard for traffic laws by committing frequent traffic offenses

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 Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

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How to get a license reinstatement in Rhode Island

Since Rhode Island considers each license reinstatement case individually, the exact steps required can vary from individual to individual. In general, though, here’s what you can expect:

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 eligibility requirements, you’ll probably need to meet with a hearing officer in person at the Rhode Island DMV Adjudication office.

Remember: 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If your Rhode Island license was revoked: The process to have it reinstated will largely be the same as the process for a suspended license.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.

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 certain drivers with suspended licenses are eligible to apply for a hardship license, which allows them a set 12-hour period each day when they can drive to and from work.

Keep in mind: Rhode Island only grants

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 license 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.

Hardship license eligibility in Rhode Island

To be eligible for a hardship license in Rhode Island, you must meet the following requirements:

You were sentenced by a judge or magistrate for 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 auto insurance company. Often called SR-22 insurance, these documents serve as legal proof that your insurance meets the

state's minimum insurance requirements

The state of Rhode Island does not require SR-22 certificates, but having an SR-22 after a license suspension or revocation can make it easier to get insurance coverage once you get your license reinstated.

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How to fill out and file an SR-22