Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles Department of Revenue

Commercial (CDL)

Breaking News

Medical Certificates will no longer be accepted effective March 31, 2025

Starting March 31st, 2025, Medical Certificates will no longer be accepted at the RI DMV. The DOT Certified Medical Examiner (Examiner) will be responsible for electronically submitting the Medical Certificate to the FMCSA National Registry, which in turn will submit it to the RI DMV. The Examiner will have until midnight of the following day to submit the Medical Certificate to the National Registry. Once the Medical Certificate has been validated by the National Registry, it will be instantly updated to the driver’s record at the RI DMV and no further action will be needed. This ruling has been put into effect per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Citation 49 Parts 383.73(a)(7), (b)(1) and (5), and (o).

*Drivers are urged to complete their new medical examination at least 48 hours prior to expiration to allow time to for the process to be complete

CDL Downgrades effective July 22, 2024 

Beginning July 22, 2024, having a “prohibited” status in FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse due to a drug and alcohol program violation will result in losing or being denied a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or commercial learner’s permit (CLP). The U.S. DOT has established a process for being able to return to commercial driving duties after incurring a drug and alcohol program violation. FMCSA has created a resource that outlines the steps drivers must take to complete their return-to-duty process: download the Return-to-Duty Quick Reference Guide. For more information, visit the Clearinghouse Learning Center.”

Commercial Transaction

The Division of Motor Vehicles processes renewals by mail, drop box, or in-person with a reservation. 

** Please Note: CDL licenses can only be renewed 45 days prior to expiration

  • By Mail : Send the completed CDL-1 (Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Application) or Renewal form (forms received by mail) and any supporting documentation to the Division of Motor Vehicles Attn: RI DMV – CDL Office, 600 New London Avenue, Cranston RI 02920
  • Drop Box: Deposit the completed CDL-1(Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Application) or Renewal form (forms received by mail) and any supporting documentation in drop boxes located at all DMV branch locations. Documents must be notarized when required if using the drop box. The drop box is accessible only during normal business hours – Monday thru Friday, 8:30 am  - 3:30 pm
  • Online Renewals can be processed online here.