Rhode Island Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be before I can get an instruction permit or learners permit in Rhode Island?
You need to be at least 16 to get an instruction permit (or learners permit) in Rhode Island.  You may begin taking your required, state-approved drivers education course no earlier than two (2) months prior to your 16th birthday.

Can anybody take drivers education over the internet in Rhode Island?
Anyone can sign up for Teen Driving Course!  Our online class will be of great help to you as you get ready to take your drivers test and prepare to become a safe and smart driver.  However, if you're wondering whether or not Teen Driving Course would fulfill Rhode Island's specific drivers education requirements, you will need to check with your local DMV office.


What paperwork or documents will I need to take to the drivers license office to get my instruction permit?
You will need to provide the following to the Rhode Island DMV in order to get your learners permit:

  • A certified birth certificate (not a copy)
  • Social Security Card
  • Proof that you've completed a state-approved drivers ed class
  • A signed parental approval form (this form is issued by the R.I. DMV)

For a complete listing of what you need to bring, please contact your local DMV office.

What if I don’t pass the Rhode Island instruction permit test? How many times can I take the test?
If you fail your Rhode Island instruction permit test, don't freak out!  You can retake it as many times as you need to before you pass it, although your local drivers license office may not let you take it twice the same day.

But don't stress about it!  After you take Teen Driving Course's online drivers education class you will be more than prepared to dominate your written drivers test on your first try.  If you don't believe us, take a look at our "testimonials" page.

Is there a final exam at the end of the Teen Driving Course Rhode Island drivers ed class?
Yes, there is a final exam you will need to take at the end of Teen Driving Course's online class.  You will need to score at least an 80% on it to pass the class.  Don't worry if you don't pass the final the first time, because you're free to retake it as many times as you need to in order to pass it, and there's no extra charge for doing so.


Does your course meet all of Rhode Island's driver education requirements?
Teen Driving Course is primarily designed to help prepare you for your written instruction permit test and to help you become a safe and smart driver. 

If you would like to know if Teen Driving Course's online class meets Rhode Island's specific drivers education requirements, you will need to contact your local Rhode Island DMV office.


You will need specific authorization from the Rhode Island DMV to take our Rhode Island online driver ed class to satisfy Rhode Island driver education and training requirements.
How long will it take your company to send my certificate of completion to me after I finish the Teen Driving Course's online class?
After you pass your Teen Driving Course online class final exam, your certificate of completion will be sent to you via regular mail, which usually takes about 3-5 business days.  However, for an additional fee, you may opt to have it delivered by FedEx.  FedEx's shipping options include 3rd Day, 2nd Day, and Overnight Delivery.  The choice is yours.

When can I actually start driving?
As soon as you receive your instruction permit.  However, Rhode Island law states that whenever your drive, you must be accompanied by a licensed R.I. driver with at least five (5) years' driving experience, and this person must be seated in the front passenger seat.
After I get my Rhode Island instruction permit, how long do I have to wait until I can get my drivers license?
After you receive your instruction permit, Rhode Island law requires that you wait at least six (6) months before applying for a drivers license.  This will give you plenty of time to practice driving under supervision and gain valuable experience before you drive independently.


Do I have to get behind-the-wheel training in Rhode Island before I get my drivers license?
Yes, you will need to complete a state-approved 33-hour driver training program which includes driving practice under the direct supervision of a licensed Rhode Island professional driving instructor.  Please contact the Rhode Island DMV for complete details.


How many hours of supervised driving, outside of my drivers education class, do I need to have before I can get my Rhode Island drivers license?
In addition to the behind-the-wheel training you receive in a state-approved drivers education class, you will also have to complete 50 hours of driving practice (10 of which must be at night) on your own.  These hours must be supervised and approved by a parent or legal guardian who is over 21 years of age and has at least five (5) years' driving experience.


Can I have passengers or friends in the car when I drive after I get my instruction permit?
Yes, however when you are driving under a Rhode Island instruction permit, there must be a licensed 21-year old Rhode Island driver with 5 years of experience sitting in the front passenger seat at all times.