What to Bring to Your Rhode Island Permit Test Appointment
Last updated 2026-08-07
Identity documents -- no photocopies accepted
You'll need a certified birth certificate, an active passport, a Rhode Island or government ID card, a certified baptismal certificate, or a resident alien card. Photocopies of these documents are not acceptable.
See Appendix G of the manual for the full, detailed list of acceptable documents by category before your appointment.
An original Social Security card -- no copies, no laminated cards
You must bring your original Social Security card. A photocopy won't be accepted, and neither will a laminated card, even if it's the original.
If you've laminated your card for protection in the past, plan to request a fresh replacement card from the Social Security Administration before your DMV appointment.
A supervising adult must come with you
A parent, legal guardian (with court documentation if applicable), licensed foster parent (with DCYF documentation), or adult spouse must accompany you to the DMV. This person must be a Rhode Island resident and qualify as a supervising driver.
One notable exception: a parent who doesn't hold a valid Rhode Island license can still sign the application for a child under 18, but must then be seated in the back seat during practice driving rather than beside the permit holder.
Fee and payment method
The Limited Instructional Permit costs $12.50, payable in cash, check (no third-party checks accepted), or money order.
Bring the exact payment method you intend to use -- if you're planning to pay by check, confirm in advance that it's drawn on your own account, since third-party checks are explicitly not accepted.
Proof of Rhode Island residency
You'll need to show proof of Rhode Island residency as part of your application, in addition to your identity and Social Security documents.
Check Appendix G's acceptable-documents list for exactly what qualifies as residency proof, since it's a separate document category from identity verification.
Source
More Rhode Island Guides
- How Long Does a Rhode Island Learner Permit Last?
- How Rhode Island's Graduated Licensing System Works
- What Happens If You Fail Rhode Island's DMV Test?
- Do You Need Driver's Education in Rhode Island?
Rules and requirements change — always confirm current details with RI DMV before your exam. Check the full guides index or the Rhode Island cheat sheet and FAQ, or take a free Rhode Island practice test.