Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles Department of Revenue

State ID

What do I need to bring with me to get a STATE ID for the first time?

  • One (1) proof of identity document, such as a valid or expired (less than 5 years) driver’s license, a certified copy of a birth certificate filed with a State Office of Vital Statistics or equivalent agency in the individual's State of birth OR an unexpired passport.  Proof of name change, such as a government issued marriage license is required if your name differs from your name listed on your identity document.
  • AND Social Security Number (must be listed on application) OR a letter issued by the Social Security Administration stating the applicant is not eligible to receive a Social Security Number
  • AND two (2) proof of Rhode Island residency documents, such as a utility bill (gas, electric, telephone, cable, oil, water, sewer, satellite, heat, cell phone) with the address of residence clearly stated in the applicant’s name.
  • Refer to the third page of the License/ID/Permit Application (Checklist for License/ID Cards/Permits) for a more extensive list of documents accepted to perform this transaction.

Forms and Fees

  • You need to complete and sign the License/ID/Permit Application
  • Costs are listed in the DMV State ID Fee Table

Things to Know

  • You must be a Rhode Island resident.
  • You can not have a valid license in Rhode Island or any other state.
  • If you are 59 years of age or older, there is no cost.
  • You must list your Social Security Number on the application, or a letter issued by the Social Security Administration stating the applicant is not eligible to receive a Social Security Number. If you do not know your number, please contact the Social Security Administration.
  • Checks are not accepted for State Identification Cards.
  • Identification cards from US territories and other US states do not transfer into the State of RI. They must be done as a “new” state ID.

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): The Rhode Island DMV does not accept an ITIN as a form of identity. You must have a valid social security number or an acceptable denial letter from Social Security with an acceptable visa code.