Rhode IslandCar Registration

Bonus

Features

24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits

24-Hour Towing Service

24-Hour Mechanical First Aid

24-Hour Tire Change Service

Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.

Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.

Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.

Congratulations on your 60-dayRoadside Assistance membershipWhen out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.

Rental Car Discounts

24-Hour Lost Key Service

24-Hour Emergency Delivery

24-Hour Emergency Battery Service

Map Routing Service

Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.

If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.

A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.

Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.

We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.

Theft And Hit & Run Protection

A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.

Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.

*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.

Congratulations!Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online

Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you will need to start your 60-day Roadside Assistance membership.

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Table of

Contents

Registration Insurance Requirements

Vehicle Registration

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration

License Plates

Updating Your Vehicle Registration

DMV Hours and Locations

Registering Your Vehicle in Rhode Island

Replacing Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle Safety Tips

7

6

11

16

14

21

8

13

18

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Getting a vehicle is always an exciting adventure. It doesn’t matter if it is your first car or if you have already purchased many vehicles in the past, making the decision to buy a car is a big step and it must be taken carefully.

Whenever you purchase a car, whether it is new or used, it must be registered to be legally driven in your state of residence. Also, when you change your residential address to another state, you will have to follow the procedure to transfer your registration.

The entire process looks very complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Our Easy Guide will provide you step-by-step information on how you can register your vehicle. Learn how you can also transfer your out-of-state registration and renew proper credentials at the appropriate time. Additionally, we will make sure you have all the necessary documents and forms on your person, so you do not experience any delay to your car registration process. Sit back and relax while we guide you towards getting your vehicle registration in no time.

Vehicle

Registration

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Registration Insurance

Requirements

When you go to register your vehicle, you will be required to obtain insurance before you are allowed to continue with the process at the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles.

This is a necessary requirement in order to help reduce the number of uninsured drivers on the road, which can often result in high costs if you are involved in any vehicle accident.

The state of Rhode Island requires that you obtain liability insurance for your automobile before you can register and legally drive it. Liability insurance is designed to help you pay for any and all damages or injuries you caused to someone due to a car accident. The coverage plan must be acquired in Rhode Island from a licensed insurance company. Out-of-state insurance plans are not accepted. You must comply with the following liability coverage minimums:

For property damage per accident: $25,000

For body injuries of one person per accident: $25, 000

For body injuries of one or more persons: $50,000

TipIt is important to always carry proof of insurance when driving, in case an officer or any other authority requests it. The documents must be legible and show that the car is properly covered. Otherwise, your vehicle registration may get suspended if you cannot prove your car is insured.

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Registering Your

Vehicle in Rhode Island

One of the most important parts of the vehicle registration process in Rhode Island is taking a look at the requirements you need to meet, as well as the steps you must follow for the type of car you own.

Whether you are submitting a request for a new, used, out-of-state, military, or special type of vehicle, you should review the specific instructions to correctly register your car so you can make sure the process is as easy and quick as possible.

In order to this, you can simply read the outlined steps below to better understand what exactly you must do in order to legally drive your vehicle in Rhode Island and begin driving as soon as possible!

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Register A New Vehicle Usually, if you purchased a brand-new car at a dealership, you do not have to worry about registering it since the dealership takes care of the process for you. However, if your dealership didn’t or if you bought it using a different method, you have to register it yourself.

You need to go to the RI DMV office in your area and present the following documents:

Completed Application for Registration

Valid RI Insurance

The Manufacturer Statement of Origin or you can even present the title of the car

If the car has more than one proprietor, every owner must sign the form and must be present at the time of the registration

If the vehicle is leased, show the power of attorney

Tax form in case you are registering an out-of-state vehicle

Gross Vehicle Weight

Driver’s license or ID card

Bill of Sale

Vehicle Identification Number (if applicable)

Take the dealer sales tax form and be aware the tax must be paid when you go and register your vehicle

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Register A Used Vehicle The process to register a vehicle when bought from a private party is slightly different. You would have to take some other documentation to be able to continue with this request. Take the following documents you will be required to present:

Completed Application for Registration

Valid RI Insurance

The title of the car for 2001 models and newer ones

If the car has more than one proprietor, every owner must sign the form and must be present at the time of the registration

If your vehicle was a gift from a non-immediate family member, present a notarized gift letter.

For vehicles with no title, take the proof of previous car holder

Gross Vehicle Weight

Driver’s license or ID card

Bill of Sale

Vehicle Identification Number (if applicable)

Take the sales tax form

Register An Out-Of-State VehicleImportant dates or timeframes

When you Move to Rhode Island or you acquired a vehicle out of state, you have 30 days to register it.

Once you obtain your RI driver’s license and car insurance, you are ready to register your automobile. You will be required to follow the same outlined steps as when registering your vehicle for the first time or from a private party. Also, you will need to have your car inspected within five days of submitting the registration and present the Out-of-State Transfer form.

Registration For Military Members There are three different situations for military members in or from Rhode Island.

Non-residents stationed in Rhode Island are not asked to register their vehicles, but they must have a valid insurance and registration with the Division of Motor Vehicles at their hometown.

Residents will have to follow the same procedure as a regular resident.

Finally, residents who are stationed out of Rhode Island would have to register their vehicle by calling the RI DMV at 401-462-4368 to get instructions on how to proceed and send the request by mail.

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Renewing Your

Vehicle Registration

Is it time to renew your vehicle registration? Much like with many things in life, such as your driver’s license and even food products, your vehicle registration will be at risk of expiring.

This can be solved by simply making sure to renew your vehicle’s registration before the expiration date is allowed to pass by unattended. Therefore, allowing your vehicle registration to expire is not well-advised, as it will mean you are no longer able to legally drive with your vehicle. Having this happen limits your ability to travel as you please or even for emergency purposes.

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The following four options are available to renew your vehicle registration:

Online

This is the easiest method you can select to renew your vehicle registration. Simply, access the online registration tool, read the instructions and submit your request.

In Person

If you cannot renew online or you do not wish to submit your information using an online application, you can go to the closest DMV location. When you arrive, you will be able to see a drop box you can use to deposit your completed Registration Renewal Form or notice.

By Mail

Once you receive your renewal notice, complete it and mail it to:

Registration Renewal 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920

In the event that you did not get the renewal notice, you can print the application form to mail it along with the fees which are based on the vehicle’s weight plus $1.50.

AAA Members

If you are an active member of AAA, you can go to the AAA agency, show the Registration Renewal Form and renew your vehicle registration. Check the fees for more information.

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Replacing Your

Vehicle Registration

Has something happened to your vehicle registration? Well, it doesn’t matter if your vehicle registration was recently lost, stolen, or even damaged, the Rhode Island DMV will help you in obtaining a new one as soon as possible regardless of the situation. You may request a replacement by mail, or in person at the RI DMV office using the drop boxes located in each agency.

There are three methods for you to replace your vehicle registration:

In Person

In case your vehicle registration was lost or stolen, you can go to the nearest DMV office, fill out the Application for Registration and pay the fees.

AAA Members

If you are an active member of the AAA, you can go to the AAA agency, fill out the Application for Registration and replace your vehicle registration. Check the fee schedule for more information.

By Mail

Complete the Application for Registration and enclose a money order or check to pay the fee. Mail the documents to:

Division of Motor Vehicles Attn:

Registration Duplicate 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920

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Have you gone through big changes in your life that led you to change your name or move neighborhoods? Either way, it is essential to keep this information updated in all your DMV documents, which include your registration card.

In case you have never updated your registration card information and you are looking for guidance on how to do it, you have come to the right place. The only thing you will have to do is inform the RI DMV of these changes and ask them to update your information. To better understand the process, you must follow the steps that best fit your situation below.

Updating Your

Vehicle Registration

Tip Remember that before updating your car registration information, you must always update your driver license or ID information.

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Changing Your Name If you have officially changed your name, you will be required to update it on all of your identification documents and cards, including your car registration. Doing this is very simple, but you need to contact the Social Security Administration first, so the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles can verify the modification.

Contact your SSA agency and take with you proof of your identity, name change, and U.S citizenship. Check a complete list of accepted documents here. Make sure you are carrying only original documents since the SSA will not receive any copies of your documentation. Download and fill out an Application for a Social Security Card and take it with you when you go request your name change.

The application should be submitted by mail or personally at the SSA office. Allow 10 days for your card to arrive.

When you get your new SS card, you can contact the RI DMV agency, and take with you:

One proof of identity (driver’s license, passport, ID card)

Proof of your name change (marriage certificate, court order, divorce decree)

RI driver’s license or ID card.

Changing Your Address In the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you update it on your car registration as well. All you must do is stick to the process and once you have completed every step properly, your car registration will be updated. You must also pay a fee of $6.50. There are three methods you can use to update your address:

Online

If you would like to use this method, access this link and submit your application.

In Person

You can visit the DMV office in your area. Take a completed Application for Registration and Title Certificate and pay the fees. Take into account that you will be asked to present your driver’s license/ID card, registration certification/card and proof of insurance.

By Mail

Complete the Application for Registration and Title Certificate and enclose the fee. Once you have all the documents ready, mail them to:

Division of Motor Vehicles Attn: Update Registration 600 New London Ave. Cranston, RI 02920

Certificate of title.

Pay a $6.50 fee.

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License

Plates

When you register your vehicle, the RI DMV assigns a license plate number to you. Whenever you renew your registration, your license plates are also renewed.

The DMV will give you a decal that you must attach to the license plate. The decal has the expiration date of your registration and must be up to date at all times.

Besides the regular RI license plates, there are also specialty plates which are made around a specific theme or cause, such as professional associations, sports, universities and environmental themes. They may be purchased at an additional cost which helps fund the particular cause. Obtain your regular and specialty license plates at any of the Rhode Island DMV offices across the state.

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Replacing Your License Plates Your license plate is what identifies your vehicle to the authorities and is used to keep track of your driving behavior. This is why it must always be in good conditions and completely legible. If your license plate gets lost, stolen or defaced, you may request a new one at a RI DMV office. In case your plates were stolen, you need to report it to the local authorities for them to guide you in filling out a form and filing the incident.

In order to get new license plates, you will need to surrender both of the vehicle’s plates. If one or both of the plates were lost or stolen, you will need to go to the local authorities and take that report with you to the DMV office. You can also print the Affidavit for Cancellation of Registration for Lost Plates.

For damaged license plates, you can mail your Application for Registration plus the Application for Remake of License Plates to the:

Division of Motor Vehicles Attn: Plates 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920

To replace your plate stickers, take your vehicle registration and go directly to the DMV office in your area or if you are an AAA member, visit their branch. You will not be required to pay any fee regardless of which method you choose.

Getting Custom Plates Vanity plates are used for different vehicles types like commercial, motorcycle, livery, private passenger, antiques and camper vehicles. These original plate designs must be previously approved. Therefore, you can check if the type you want to have on your vehicle is obtainable. These plates are available for Class A motor vehicles and not all of them are available which is why you can verify on the same website and see if you can apply for the one you desire.

A variety of special license plates are offered in Rhode Island. Click here to create your own design, check for availability and apply to get the ones you want. A vehicle must already be titled and registered with a regular license plate before applying for any of the special license plates. Take into account that if your request is approved, you need to submit your current license plates to the DMV within 10

days after receiving the new license plates. The fees will vary depending on the type of plates you own.

You can also mail a complete Vanity License Plate Application along with the fee.

Surrendering Rhode Island License Plates If you are going to live out of Rhode Island, you are required to surrender your license plates. It is recommended to go the RI DMV so you can return your license plates. Also, the AAA branch receives the plates as long as you are an active member.

You need to return any out-of-state plates to the original state.

Finally, you can mail your plates, so they can be cancelled to the:

Division of Motor Vehicles Attn: Plates 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920

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Vehicle Safety

Tips

Before you get behind the wheel, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is safe and prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive. Be sure to regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly and your tires are inflated and not worn out. Have the steering and suspensions checked by a mechanic.

Emergency Kit One of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, First Aid items, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, a shovel and extra gloves and socks.

Winter Driving One of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter, especially if you live in an area that is prone to ice and snowfall. Consider the tips below to drive safely during the winter.

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Don’t Rush!

Roads are often covered in snow and ice after snowfall. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for your appointment.

Don’t Panic if You Skid or Slip

In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while you are driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

Check Your Vehicle

Before you leave your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving. This prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive or flying off and hitting someone while the vehicle is in motion.

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Things to Avoid

Drinking and Driving

Every year, thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These unfortunate events can be prevented if drivers plan ahead of time and take certain steps.

Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If they also become intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. Never allow someone drunk to drive. Instead, take away their keys and call for alternative transportation.

If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, breaking erratically or turning abruptly – call 9-1-1 and contact authorities immediately. Make sure to avoid them on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until they are at a safe distance from your car.

Using Your Phone

Driving while using your cell phone is one of the most dangerous actions you can perform. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure to avoid texting, using the internet on your phone or receiving calls while you drive.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving and drivers should both be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as tailgating, verbally or physically harassing another driver or preventing another driver from merging or passing.

If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you engage in any of the above behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment, breathe and continue moving.

Wasting Gas

If you drive often, you can start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. Some of the ways that you can start saving gas are by turning off the air conditioning, not leaving your engine running and avoiding speeding. These things are preventable and not necessary for you to drive. Therefore, you can quickly reduce the amount of gas you waste.

Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated and your engine is properly tuned.

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DMV

Hours and Locations

There are several options available for you in case you need to visit or contact the Division of Motor Vehicles Department of Revenue.

Find all the DMV and American Automobile Association (AAA) offices here. If you click on the plus sign on your selected location, you will find the address, phone number, office hours and the holidays they close on.

Have you ever visited the DMV and realized that you forgot a document? Save the trip, time and money by using the online services. Some transactions such as renewing your license, changing your address and getting your driving record can be processed online without the need of calling or visiting the DMV. Check it out here.

If you need to contact the DMV for any other purposes, you can visit their main office or mail them. Find the addresses below:

DMV Headquarters Division of Motor Vehicles 600 New London Avenue Cranston, RI 02920-3024

You may also contact them by calling to: 401-462-4368

Or use the phone numbers listed in here which are orga-nized by department.

You can also submit your complaints, questions or con-cerns here.

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