Motor Vehicles & Trailer Excise Tax

Motor Vehicle Bills have been phased out by the State of Rhode Island. the last Motor Vehicle Tax Bill issued was in 2021.

THE TAX

The motor vehicle excise tax is a tax on the privilege of registration and is based on the number of days each vehicle or trailer was registered during the preceding year. (January 1st - December 31st)

THE VALUE

The value for excise tax purpose is mandated by law to be the average retail value as determined by the Rhode Island Vehicle Value Commission. The determination is made by using the National Automobile Dealers Used Cars Guide.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Motor Vehicles and trailers are taxed by the Assessor based on Registry of Motor Vehicles records. If a vehicle is sold and not replaced, the registration should be cancelled and plates returned to the Registry. Should you retain your plate or simply allow the plate to expire, the vehicle must be taxed until the expiration date of the registration.

Delinquent Motor Vehicle Accounts:

In order to clear your registration immediately, payment must be made by cash, certified check, or money order.

Questions concerning exemptions or values should be directed to the Tax Assessor’s Office at (401) 364-1233.