Permits & Tests

The computerized knowledge exam is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 2:45 pm at the DMV Cranston headquarters. A vision test will be given at this time. These tests are available by reservation only.

What do I need to bring with me to obtain a Permit or take the Written Permit Exam?

  • One (1) proof of identity document, such as 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 or someone with the same last name.
  • IF YOU ARE UNDER THE AGE OF 18, you also need to bring an Original Driver’s Education Certificate showing completion of the mandatory 33 hour classroom course. Photocopies are not accepted. You also need a parent/guardian with you OR their signature must be notarized on your LI-1 form.
  • Effective July 1, 2022, No Online Driver Education Courses are accepted, nor are they an approved curriculum in the state of Rhode Island.
  • 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.

The following additional documents are required for an F1 and F2 Visa:

  • I-20
  • I-94 (NOTE: An I-94 is no longer needed to be attached to the passport. US Customs and Border Protection are doing it electronically. US Customs and Border Protection have decided there is no need to require the document since it has been determined that the person is allowed to be in the US. More information can be found on www.cbp.gov/I94.)
  • Passport
  • Social Security Number must be written on the application, or a letter issued by the Social Security Administration stating the applicant is not eligible to receive a Social Security Number.
  • Two proofs of residency