Rhode Island's Undocumented Residents Can Now Obtain Driving Permits

RHODE ISLAND — Gov. Dan McKee signed legislation today which grants Rhode Island's undocumented residents permits allowing them to drive.

The bill, (2022-S 2006Aaa), grants driving privilege cards and permits to undocumented residents of the state who meet certain requirements. This is a step improving education, healthcare and employment access for undocumented people, McKee said.

Rhode Island law currently states that those without a "lawful presence" in the state who can't provide documentation, like a social security card, are unable to receive a driver's license.

"By granting every Rhode Islander of driving age the opportunity to safely and legally drive a vehicle, we are allowing them to further their education and career – which in turn benefits the entire state," McKee said.

"That means more workers will have access to more jobs and opportunities that keep Rhode Island’s momentum going."

The legislation requires that applicants have verification from the tax administrator that they have filed a personal income tax return as a Rhode Island resident for the tax year preceding the date of application, or have been claimed as a dependent on a personal income tax return by a person who has filed a personal income tax return as a Rhode Island resident for that year.

Applicants must allow present proof of identity documents and be in compliance with insurance requirements.

McKee was joined by Lt. Governor Sabina Matos, bill sponsors Rep. Karen Alzate and Sen. Frank A. Ciccone and Rep. Anastasia Williams to sign the legislation. The bill signing ceremony took place at the Division of Motor Vehicles in Cranston, the agency that will be issuing the cards or permits.

Matos said there is ample data which points to this being a good decision, but also added that it's a matter of equity, too.

"Soon, 29,000 taxpaying Rhode Islanders will be given legal safe access to our roads," Matos said.

The law is set to go into effect on July 1, 2023.