Woonsocket Radio News Room

 

House OKs Phillips bill that would mandate 30-day period between driver’s permit and license for adults

 

STATE HOUSE — The House of Representatives today passed legislation introduced by Rep. Robert D. Phillips (D-Dist. 51) that would implement a 30-day waiting period following the issuance of a learner’s permit before taking a road test in order to obtain a full license for anyone over the age of 18.

The bill (2025-H 5513) would also clarify that the temporary driver’s permit would expire one year  following the date of issuance, and could only be renewed for one additional year.

“State law requires learners below the age of 18 to wait a period of six months before taking their road test, but mentions no time line for adults,” said Representative Phillips.  “While it’s been a longstanding business practice for the Division of Motor Vehicles to wait 30 days after issuing a permit to an adult, it’s never been codified into law. This bill would guarantee that those adult learners have enough time to learn the physical complexities of operating a motor vehicle before getting the full license.”

The measure now moves to the Senate, where similar legislation (2025-S 0624) has been introduced by Sen. Louis P. DiPalma (D-Dist. 12, Middletown, Newport, Tiverton, Little Compton).

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