Rhode Island Motor Vehicle Fees Increasing In 2026

Motor vehicle fees in Rhode Island are increasing in 2026.

For most passenger vehicles, the surcharge is increasing from $30 t0 $40 for a two-year registration while the surcharge for a single-year registration is going from $15 to $20.

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The cost of renewing a driver's license after five years is rising from $30 to $40.

New Electric And Hybrid Vehicle Fees

Starting in 2026, electric and hybrid vehicles will be subjected to additional annual fees on top of the standard registration fee and Department of Transportation surcharge.

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Battery electric vehicles will cost another $200 per year, Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles will have a $100 per year fee and non-plug-in hybrid vehicles will cost an additional $50 per year.

The non-plug-in hybrid vehicle "includes 'mild hybrid' vehicles, according to the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles.

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"A mild hybrid vehicle has a small electric motor that assists the gasoline engine to improve fuel efficiency," the DMV explained. "It cannot be driven on electric power alone and does not need to be plugged in to charge."

When These Changes Will Appear?

Registration renewals expiring in January 2026 or later will reflect the new surcharge and, if applicable, the electric vehicle or hybrid fee.

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New registrations processed on or after Jan. 1 will include the updated fees.

Driver license issuances or renewals processed on or after Jan. 1 will include the updated DOT surcharge.

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