Vehicle registration requirements - Rhode Island

License plate display

Motorcycles, trailers, bailees, and dealer's motor vehicles must display one license plate on the rear of the vehicle. All other motor vehicles must display two license plates, with one on the front of the vehicle and the other on the rear of the vehicle.

International Registration Plan

Rhode Island is a member of the International Registration Plan (IRP). The IRP is a base state system for vehicle registration fees allowing a carrier to apply for vehicle registration and pay fees to a single jurisdiction.

Motor vehicles that qualify for apportionment consist of the following:

• A power unit having two axles and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) or registered weight in excess of 26,000 pounds;
• A power unit having three or more axles, regardless of weight; or
• A unit used in combination when the weight of such combination exceeds a GVW or 26,000 pounds.

Temporary permit: A 72 hour permit is available for a fee of $25.

Agency: Rhode Island Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles.

Fees: IRP registration fees will vary. It is important to note that the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has limited information online regarding the IRP. For more information, contact the Rhode Island DMV directly.