DMV Requires Non Residents to Get an In-State License to Reinstate

[lilithz5]

My question involves a driver's license issued by the State of: Rhode Island

July 2002, a "friend" borrowed my car, while I was sleeping, which I purchased 3 days prior. I had not gotten the insurance yet.....needless to say, I was woken to the info that 1.) they "borrowed" my car and 2.) hit another car in a parking lot (no injuries-no one was in the car) and drove off....... I went to court and was given amnesty as to registration (I got the car Friday and this happened Sun/Mon. morning-accident reports have stated this) I had since regiustered and insured my vehicle. I also moved out of state and was unaware that I was to face charges for lack of insurance at the time.....As of today....I received my chech for the reinstatement fee and a letter stating that I need to maintain a R.I. driver's license AND an SR 22 insurance for one year......I sent my proof of insurance along with 7 different resident verifications...including a letter stating the obvious illegality of not maintaing a license in a state that I am not a resident of-----6 years now!!!!!!!!!! Oddly, all the documents I sent were not returmed although this letter....mailed to my out of state address-----declares my having to obtain the R.I. license!!!! I am hesitant as to driving 2 days to arrive at the DMV to state that I am paying the fine in person, with said form and to apply for the license in R.I.) for reinstatement although it did expire 3 years ago!!!!!
Please explain this INSANITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maine-Canada border

[Mr. Knowitall]

You let your driver's license lapse, and have no license at all at this time?

[licensegrl]

They are not asking for you to apply for a LICENSE!!! They are asking for you to apply for a RIGHT TO OPERATE!!

I swear they can put this statement on my gravestone..............the piece of plastic is really only an ID card...it is ALWAYS your right to OPERATE that they take away.

[licensegrl]

Rhode Island can require that you maintain an SR-22 but will not require that you hold a license there if you are not a resident. You need to read these forms very carefully. Verbage is everything!!! You hold a license (or not) in the State where you reside. RI can ask that you also have an SR-22 in case yu drive in their State. It covers them on the off chance that something happens.