Rhode Island Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Dome light must be turned on when pulling over if stopped by the authorities after dark.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Prima Facie
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | (D) 50 mph
(N) 45 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
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|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
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|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
All accidents must be reported immediately to the local authorities and (if the accident results in death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500) within 21 days to Department of Motor Vehicle, Accident Division, 286 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law with both security-type and future proof-type when there has been an accident resulting in personal injury or property damage over $500.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/25,000 or $75,000 combined single limit.
Rhode Island has uninsured motorists law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are permitted in the vehicle. Consumption while operating a vehicle is prohibited.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Rhode Island has an implied consent law, but does not have an administrative license suspension law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty for the first offense is a 3 to 6-month driver's license suspension, $200-$500 fine, 10-60 hours public service, and driver school attendance.
- Concealed weapons permit issued by any state or locality required for transportation of handguns through the state; rifles and shotguns may be transported without a permit in an unloaded condition in the trunk or storage compartment of the vehicle.
- Studded tires are permitted from November 15 to April 1.
- Tire chains are required under certain conditions.
- Rhode Island has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all occupants.
- Rhode Island has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 14 years of age. Children under age 3 must use approved car safety seats.
- Children 5 years of age and younger are required to ride in the back seat of vehicle. Pickup trucks, two-seat sports cars, and vehicles manufactured before July 1, 1996 are exempt.
- Rhode Island has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law for persons under 21 years of age and for drivers during the first year of driver's licensure.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 401/277-2970
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911