DMV.com - your advisor for Rhode Island DMV issues (not from Rhode Island? Select another state)

How to Apply for a Rhode Island Identification Card

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues non-driver identification cards to State residents who don't have a valid ID card, driver license or instruction permits from the State or any other jurisdiction. The ID card can be used to prove your identity, age, and residence in a variety of situations. The identification card is valid for five years.

APPLYING FOR A RHODE ISLAND ID CARD

  1. Locate the Office of Motor Vehicles nearest you, as you will have to apply for the ID card in person.
  2. Look for the ID card application form and complete it.
  3. You will need to carry Proper Identification and acceptable signature documentation.
  4. You must also present your unlaminated Social Security card or present an acceptable denial letter with a visa code. If you have no Social Security Card and would like one, you will have to contact Social Security administration.
  5. Provide proof of Rhode Island residence.
  6. Pay the ID card application fee, currently $16.50. Personal checks are not accepted. The service is free for people over 59.

RENEWING A RHODE ISLAND ID CARD

  1. Locate the Office of Motor Vehicles nearest you, as you will have to apply for the ID card in person.
  2. Look for the ID card application form and complete it.
  3. You will need to carry Proper Identification and acceptable signature documentation.
  4. Provide proof of Rhode Island residence.
  5. Pay the ID card application fee, currently $16.50. Personal checks are not accepted. The service is free for people over 59. Social Security cards need not be presented. Also, if a renewal had been denied since 8/1/07, for lack of a Social Security card, the applicant can reapply now even if the ID has expired.

REPLACING A LOST, STOLEN, OR DESTROYED ID CARD

You may be issued a replacement identification card if your original ID card has been lost, stolen or destroyed or because of an address/name change. Follow all the following steps you would while applying for an ID card and tick the correct transaction on the application form.
  1. Locate the Office of Motor Vehicles nearest you, as you will have to apply for the ID card in person.
  2. Look for the ID card application form and complete it.
  3. You will need to carry Proper Identification and acceptable signature documentation.
  4. You must also present your unlaminated Social Security card or present an acceptable denial letter with a visa code. If you have no Social Security Card and would like one, you will have to contact Social Security administration.
  5. Provide proof of Rhode Island residence.
  6. Pay the ID card application fee, currently $16.50. Personal checks are not accepted. The service is free for people over 59. In case you are applying because of a name change, one document showing this name change must be presented. It could be a marriage certificate, passport, valid voter card, Social Security Card, divorce decree, a notarized affidavit or two of the above documents.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION