Driving Without a Valid (or on a Suspended) License in Rhode Island

Rhode Island prohibits driving without a valid license as well as driving while suspended or revoked. This article explains how the law defines these violations, the possible penalties for a conviction, and the exemptions to the license requirement.

Driving Without a License in Rhode Island

Generally, every person who operates a motor vehicle on a Rhode Island highway or public area must carry a valid license while driving. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. § 31-11-18.)

Penalties for Unlicensed Driving in Rhode Island

Drivers who had never applied for a driver's license, applied and were denied, or were for other reasons unlicensed can be convicted of a misdemeanor. A first offense results in a maximum civil penalty of $150, and a second offense carries a maximum civil penalty $250. A third or subsequent offense carries a maximum civil penalty of $350.

Drivers who are charged due to an expired license can avoid conviction if renewed within ten days of the citation.

Penalties for Driving Without a Rhode Island License in Your Possession

A driver who was licensed but not carrying it while driving can be charged with a misdemeanor. However, the driver will not be convicted if he or she presents a then-valid license to the court.

Exceptions to Rhode Island's Driver's License Requirement

Non-resident drivers with valid driver's licenses from their home state or country can drive in Rhode Island without an in-state license, subject to Rhode Island age restrictions. However, new residents must obtain a Rhode Island license within 30 days of establishing residency. Non-residents who are 18 and older are also exempt for 90 days if their home country does not require driver's licenses.

United States employees in an official vehicle on official business are exempt from licensing requirements. Additionally, the operation of certain road machinery, cranes, and farm equipment does not require a license for temporary movement along a highway.

Driving While Suspended or Revoked in Rhode Island

A person who operates a vehicle while on a suspended or revoked license is subject to fines, jail, and other sanctions. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. § 31-11-18.1.)

Penalties for Driving While Suspended or Revoked in Rhode Island

Driving while suspended or revoked is a misdemeanor offense with the following penalties:

• 1^st offense: $250 to $500 fine
• 2^nd offense: $350 to $500 fine
• 3^rd offense: $500 to $1,000 fine, up to 90 days jail, and/or a maximum 90 days suspended license.

Within these ranges, the specific penalties you'll face depend on the circumstances.

Penalties for Aggravated Driving While Suspended or Revoked in Rhode Island

A violator whose license was suspended or revoked for a DUI/DWI, vehicular manslaughter, or reckless driving conviction or for having three moving violations within one year, will be subject to increased penalties. The penalties depend on the number of violations within the last five years.

• 1^st offense: Misdemeanor, minimum $500 fine, minimum ten days in jail, and three months license suspension or revocation
• 2^nd offense: Misdemeanor, minimum $500 fine, six months to one year jail, and six months license suspension or revocation
• 3^rd offense: Felony, minimum $1,000 fine, and one year prison.

Drivers suspended for moving violations may be eligible for reduced jail time and community service.

Talk to a Rhode Island Defense Attorney

The penalties you'll face for driving without a valid license in Rhode Island are serious. If you've been charged with one of these offenses, you should talk to a defense attorney. A qualified defense lawyer can explain how the law applies in your case and help you decide on the best course of action.