RI DMV Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield RI DMV facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which tire condition greatly increases the risk of skidding and hydroplaning in bad weather? → Worn or bald tread
2. Which document set is generally required when applying for a Rhode Island instruction permit? → Proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of Rhode Island residency
3. A signer appears confused and cannot explain the document they want notarized. The Rhode Island notary should: → Refuse the notarization because the signer does not appear competent or willing
4. How long is the term of office for a notary public in Rhode Island? → 4 years
5. What is the rule for cell phone use by Rhode Island drivers under age 18? → All cell phone use is prohibited while driving, even hands-free
6. In Rhode Island, at what distance before a turn must you signal on a highway or in most driving situations? → At least 100 feet before the turn
7. If a Rhode Island permit holder fails the knowledge test, what typically applies before retaking it? → They must wait and may need to pay the exam fee again to retest
8. Is a Rhode Island notary required to post a surety bond to receive a commission? → No, Rhode Island does not require a notary bond
9. What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers 21 and older in Rhode Island? → 0.08%
10. How does alcohol affect driving ability? → It impairs judgment, reduces reaction time, and decreases coordination
11. Under Rhode Island's Move Over law, when passing a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights you must: → Move over a lane if possible, or slow down
12. Which action helps prevent your vehicle from skidding on ice or packed snow? → Accelerate, turn, and brake gently and gradually
13. Which scenario describes a proper refusal of service by a Rhode Island notary? → Refusing because the signer cannot produce satisfactory evidence of identity
14. You approach an intersection where the traffic signals are dark because of a storm power outage. How should you treat it? → As a four-way stop
15. What should a Rhode Island notary do upon legally changing their name during the commission term? → Notify the Department of State of the change
16. Which of the following statements about turnabouts is FALSE? → You can perform a turnabout within 100 feet of an intersection
17. Which road surface is most likely to remain icy after other roads have cleared? → A bridge or overpass
18. Following too closely behind a vehicle is also known as → tailgating.
19. You approach a railroad crossing with flashing red lights and no gate. You must: → Stop at least 15 feet from the tracks and proceed only when it is safe
20. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRAFFIC LIGHTS WITH RED ARROWS AND THOSE WITH SOLID RED LIGHTS? → You cannot turn against a red arrow, even if you stop first
21. While driving with a limited instruction permit in Rhode Island, where must the supervising driver sit? → In the front passenger seat beside the permit holder
22. How far must you park from a fire hydrant? → 15 feet
23. What is the correct procedure for driving through standing water? → Slow down, drive through steadily, and test brakes afterward
24. A school bus with flashing red lights is stopped on a two-lane road in Rhode Island. What must you do if you are approaching from the opposite direction? → Stop until the lights stop flashing
25. How far must you park from a railroad crossing? → 50 feet
26. You are driving in heavy rain and your wipers cannot keep up. What is the safest action? → Pull off the road safely and wait for the rain to ease
27. What is the best way to stay alert on a long drive? → Take a break about every two hours or 100 miles
28. Strong crosswinds are most dangerous to which type of vehicle? → High-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and vehicles towing trailers
29. What should you do when driving in heavy fog? → Use low-beam headlights, reduce speed, and increase following distance
30. At what age must drivers typically begin renewing their license more frequently or taking additional tests? → Requirements vary by state, but many increase scrutiny for drivers 65-75 and older