Rhode Island

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Rhode Island requests photo ID to vote in person. If you don’t have an accepted ID, there is another way to confirm your identity. Check below for your options! Most voters do not need a copy of their ID to vote by mail.

1 Check ID Rules

Voting in Person

Rhode Island requests photo ID to vote in person. Vote and sign a provisional ballot if you don’t have an accepted ID.

Accepted Photo IDs

You can show: 

Ok if expired up to 6 months 

  • Rhode Island driver’s license
  • Rhode Island state ID card
  • Rhode Island Voter ID card
  • US passport or passport card
  • Photo ID issued by Rhode Island or US government
  • Tribal identification
  • Military identification
  • ID issued by an educational institution located in the United States
  • Medical card issued by government
  • RIPTA bus pass

Voting by Mail

Any registered voter can request a mail ballot in Rhode Island. You don’t have to give a reason why you can’t vote in person.

You don’t need to provide ID when you vote by mail. The signature on your ballot envelope will be compared to the one on file with the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have the right ID to vote in Rhode Island?

You have the option to vote by mail if you don’t have a photo ID. Rhode Island does not require ID for mail voting.

If you vote in person and don’t present an accepted ID, you have to cast a provisional ballot.

Provisional ballots make sure eligible voters are not turned away from the polls.

You will be asked to provide your name, address, date of birth, and the last 4 digits of your Social Security number.

Your provisional ballot will count if:

  • You visit the Board of Canvassers the day after the election and present an accepted photo ID

or

  • Your signature on the provisional ballot envelope matches your signature on file with the state.

Learn more here!  (link to “Vote” section)  

Do I need a “REAL ID” to vote in Rhode Island?

You do not need a “REAL ID” to vote in Rhode Island.

REAL ID is a set of national security standards for states to follow when they issue driver’s licenses and state ID cards. Your ID will show a star if it meets REAL ID standards.

Applying for a REAL ID requires you to appear in person with a variety of documents to prove your identity.

Visit the Rhode Island DMV website to find out exactly what is required to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card.