How to get a CDL in Rhode Island
The facts below come from official Rhode Island sources, checked on October 31, 2026. Fees change: confirm with the state before you pay.
Fees and rules
- Issued by
- Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Revenue
- Learner's permit (CLP) fee
- $73.50 (new CLP, includes $3.50 technology surcharge)
- Knowledge test fee
- $23.50 ($10 each additional test)
- CLP is valid for
- 1 year maximum, not renewable
- Minimum age (within the state)
- 18 (intrastate only; 21 for interstate)
- Where the skills test is given
- State site only: all CDL road/skills tests at 400 Romano Vineyard Way, North Kingstown (Quonset)
- Medical card
- DOT medical examination must be completed before the CLP is issued; self-certification form required
- Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
- Required before the CDL skills test for certain CDLs and endorsements (Class A/B, P, S, H)
Official sources
“State of Rhode Island, Division of Motor Vehicles , Department of Revenue” dmv.ri.gov
“New CLP or Commercial Learner's Permit $73.50” dmv.ri.gov
“Knowledge Test: $23.50 ($10.00 each additional test)” dmv.ri.gov
“CLPs are valid for one year maximum and are non-renewable.” dmv.ri.gov
“At 18 years of age, you may receive a CDL for intrastate (within state) travel only.” dmv.ri.gov
“A successful DOT Medical Examination must be completed before CLP issuance.” dmv.ri.gov
“Applicants for certain CDLs and CDL endorsements are required to complete [ELDT] before taking the CDL skills test.” dmv.ri.gov
“All Road/Skills Tests are performed at 400 Romano Vineyard Way, North Kingstown, RI.” dmv.ri.gov