https://dmv.ri.gov/registrations-plates-titles/registration/vin-checkVIN checks are conducted for Coventry residents on the following days at the times listed below.  (Weather permitting)

RHODE ISLAND’s TITLE LAW HAS CHANGED *Effective January, 1, 2024*

ALL VEHICLES coming into Rhode Island from out of state, regardless of model year, require a VIN inspection. Please note that the title must be presented along with the vehicle at the time of the VIN check. If you own the vehicle, bring the original title. If there is a lien on the vehicle, bring a copy of the title. Certificates of Origin do not require a VIN check.   

Make sure you have the following when you arrive.

• You must be Coventry resident. Please show a photo ID (for example: voter id, valid RI driver's license, etc.) proving you are a Coventry resident or a utility bill with your new Coventry address.
• The vehicle, motorcycle, or trailer you are attempting to register *Homemade trailers, trailers with a GVWR of 3000 lbs. and less, mopeds, farm equipment and mobile equipment will remain untitled.
• If an out of state vehicle is being registered in RI, from a state that did not require a title for that vehicle, an officer can check the VIN against a valid proof of ownership (i.e. old registration, or paid sales tax form) in the name of the seller.
• A valid driver's license. If you are registering the vehicle for another Coventry resident, you must have a copy of their valid driver's license.
• $10.00 cash, check, or money order.
• The Title or copy of Title if a lien exists.
• Example: Ron purchases a 1995 Honda Civic vehicle from Sally, a Connecticut resident.  Connecticut only titles vehicles with model years of 20 years or newer, so Sally provides Ron with a registration in her name. 

Ron will need to get a VIN check before he can register in Rhode Island.

NOTE:  If you're having a VIN checked on a vehicle that you own that is actively registered to you in another state, you must provide a copy of that registration.  

Temporary Plates

·         5-day plates issued at DMV locations for the express purpose of obtaining a VIN Inspection from a local police station prior to an initial registration in Rhode Island

·         All paperwork, including proper proof of Rhode Island insurance, (besides a required VIN check) is required to be submitted before obtaining a 5-day temp plate

·         These cannot be used to transport a vehicle from Rhode Island to another state

·         RIGL 31-3-17.3

For more Information Visit the State DMV website  VIN Check | RI Division of Motor Vehicles