Rhode Island Permit Test FAQ

16. Between 16 and 18 you first pass the 33-hour driver education course and the computerized knowledge exam, then apply at the DMV with a parent, guardian, licensed foster parent or adult spouse. (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 10)

40 multiple-choice questions on a computer, with a 90-minute maximum. You reserve a time online and take it at the DMV's main office in Cranston (or through CCRI if you took its driver education course). (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 10)

A licensed driver aged 21 or older who has held a license for at least 5 years. They sit beside you, must be ready to take over, and are legally responsible for any violation you commit. (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 11)

No. From 18 the classroom course isn't required, but you still pass the computerized knowledge exam to get a permit. (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 10)

Wait at least 8 days before you take it again, and make a new reservation. (Rhode Island DMV: Knowledge Exams)

The DMV says a limited learner permit is valid for one year or until you turn 18, whichever is longer, and it can be renewed once. A renewed permit that runs out means taking the knowledge test again. (Rhode Island DMV: New License Permits)

Yes. The computerized exam is offered in English, Spanish and Portuguese, and other languages can be requested in advance as a printed test at the Cranston office. (Rhode Island DMV: Knowledge Exams)

Under 18, after holding the limited learner permit for at least 6 months with 50 logged hours (10 at night). The vehicle must be registered and inspected in Rhode Island and insured, and its owner (or a notarized letter) must be there. (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 12)

You can't retake it right away: wait at least 30 days and book a new reservation. The DMV's road test page adds longer waits after a second (90 days) or third failure (180 days). (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 14)

The DMV says adults hold the learner's permit for at least 30 days before the first road test, and during that time an adult permit holder may drive without supervision. (Rhode Island DMV: New License Permits)

No driving without a supervisor between 1 and 5 a.m. (except for work, volunteer fire or rescue duty, or the trip to an early school sports event), everyone belted, and for the first 12 months only one passenger under 21 unless they are family or household members. (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 14)

Not if you are under 18: no phone at all, even hands-free, unless it's an emergency. At any age you may not write, read or send text messages while driving. (Rhode Island Driver's Manual, p. 36–37)