Quick Answer
Yes — Rhode Island allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under REAL ID Alternative Act (2022). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Rhode Island DMV office.
- Bring identity documents (foreign passport or Consular ID + 2 proofs of state residency dated within 60 days).
- Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
The license is valid for driving throughout the state but is not accepted as federal ID — not valid for domestic flights or federal buildings.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Rhode Island Without an SSN?
Yes. Rhode Island allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under REAL ID Alternative Act (2022). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Rhode Island passed its REAL ID Alternative Act in 2022. The state's DMV began processing applications shortly after passage. Rhode Island is a smaller state with a concentrated immigrant community, particularly in Providence.
License type
Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.
What Documents Do I Need?
Bring the following to your Rhode Island DMV appointment:
- 1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport or foreign government-issued ID
- 2Proof of Rhode Island residency — 2 documents: utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail
Tip
Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.
How Do I Apply Step by Step?
- Step 1: Gather identity and residency documents
- Step 2: Visit a Rhode Island DMV office
- Step 3: Complete the application, knowledge test, vision and road tests
- Step 4: License mailed to your address
What Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Rhode Island driver's license or driving permit, you can:
- Drive legally anywhere in Rhode Island
- Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
- Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
- Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account
You cannot use this license to:
- Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
- Enter federal buildings or military bases
- Prove immigration status or work authorization
Next step: build credit
A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Rhode Island?
Yes. Rhode Island's REAL ID Alternative Act (2022) allows undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license using a foreign passport or government ID and two proofs of Rhode Island residency. No SSN is required.
Is the Rhode Island driver's license REAL ID compliant? Can I use it to fly?
No. The Rhode Island alternative driver's license is not REAL ID compliant. You cannot use it to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. For air travel, you need a passport or another TSA-accepted form of ID.
Can DACA recipients get a driver's license in Rhode Island?
Yes. DACA recipients can get a driver's license in Rhode Island. They may use either the standard REAL ID process (with their Employment Authorization Document and Social Security Number) or the alternative process using a foreign passport or government ID and proof of residency.
How long is the Rhode Island driver's license valid before renewal?
Rhode Island driver's licenses are valid for 5 years. The Rhode Island DMV will send a renewal notice before your expiration date.
What if I don't have a foreign passport? Can I use a Consular ID in Rhode Island?
Yes. Rhode Island accepts a Consular ID (such as a Mexican matrícula consular) or other government-issued photo ID from your country of origin in place of a passport. You still need two proofs of Rhode Island residency dated within 60 days of your application.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
19 states and Washington D.C. currently allow undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license or driving permit. Browse by state:
For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →