With the exception of out-of-state college students and military personnel stationed in Rhode Island, all other residents who drive must have a valid Rhode Island driver's license.

You need to carry your license with you at all times. Not only is it required in the event of an accident or traffic violation, but it also serves as your best form of identification for boarding airlines and checking into hotels.

Top Miscellaneous Stuff

• Seat belt use is mandatory. If caught without your belt, you'll receive a $75 fine.

• If you alter your license for the purpose of buying alcohol, your license will be automatically revoked for three months.

• Do not lend your license to another person, regardless of the reason. If caught, your license will automatically be seized and invalidated.

• To qualify for a bus driver's license, you must be at least 21 years old, have at least three years of driving experience, and provide proof of an unblemished driving record.

Top Driving Tips

• Rhode Island is often filled with tourists, especially during the summer months along the coastal routes. Road focus with tourists often becomes secondary to mansion sightings and ocean views, placing more pressure on you to maintain watch for vehicles braking without apparent reason. Hence, laying off the gas pedal when driving around popular tourist attractions is highly advisable.

• Sea fog is common. When it settles in, turn on your lowbeam headlights and slow down.

• Even though Rhode Island lacks a reputation for heavy snow, it still receives accumulations. All it takes is one inch of snow to downgrade a road into a danger zone. When snow is present, leave for all destinations at least 15 minutes earlier so as to avoid being in rush mode.

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