Rhode Island DMV Employee Tests Positive For Coronavirus

CRANSTON, RI — A Rhode Island Department of Moter Vehicles Employee has tested positive for the new coronavirus. The Cranston headquarters, the only office open to the public at this time, will be closed for the rest of the day Thursday and all of Friday for cleaning, the department said.

"We understand that this is a difficult time for both customers and state employees. Keeping everyone safe must be our first priority," the statement read in part. "We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our customers. Please check the DMV website for updates."

On Wednesday, Brett Smiley, the state's director of administration, said DMV employees are working rotating split shifts to minimize exposure within the staff should someone get sick.

The DMV is open by appointment only until further notice in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Rhode Islanders are encouraged to conduct as must business as possible online. All satellite offices will remain closed until further notice. Only the following services are currently being offered at the Cranston office. Click here to make an appointment.

• Driver license, learner permit, state ID
• Vehicle registration and title
• Adjudication
• Commercial driver licenses and permits
• Dealer services (drop off and checks only)

For the time being, VIN checks with local police departments will not be required for out-of-state titles. In addition, driver licenses, learner permits, ID's, CLPs, CDLs, registrations, inspection stickers, and disability placards set to expire in March or April will be extended by 90 days.

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