RHODE-ISLAND · automotive-tech
RI Certified Inspection (Repair) Technician (CIT / CIRT)
Rhode Island Department of Revenue — Division of Motor Vehicles / Rhode Island Vehicle Inspection ProgramScope of Work
Rhode Island regulates two emissions-related individual credentials administered through the Rhode Island Vehicle Inspection Program: the Certified Inspection Technician (CIT) and the Certified Inspection Repair Technician (CIRT). A technician performing emissions-related work on vehicles inspected under Rhode Island's biennial program must hold one of these credentials. Source: RI Vehicle Inspection Program — CIRTs (https://www.riinspection.org/Pages/CIRTs.aspx).
CIT vs
CIRT. The CIT certification authorizes the holder to perform emissions inspections at a licensed RI inspection station. The CIRT (Certified Inspection Repair Technician) is the higher tier, authorizing the holder to diagnose and repair emissions failures on vehicles that have not passed Rhode Island's emissions inspection. Source: RI Vehicle Inspection Program — CIRTs (https://www.riinspection.org/Pages/CIRTs.aspx).
Training
To become a CIT, applicants must complete a four-hour emissions course administered by the RI Vehicle Inspection Program and pass a written exam. CIRT candidates complete additional repair-focused training. Industry-recognized certification organizations recognized by the program include ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), I-CAR, P&L Consultants, the New England Technical Institute, and Rhode Island auto-body associations. Source: RI Vehicle Inspection Program — CIRTs (https://www.riinspection.org/Pages/CIRTs.aspx).
Motor Vehicle Body and Salvage
RI also licenses Motor Vehicle Body Repair Technicians under Commercial Licensing Regulation 16 (230 RICR 30-05-2). The body-repair credential renews on a 3-year cycle and is administered by the RI Department of Business Regulation. Source: 230 RICR 30-05-2 (https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/230-30-05-2) and RI DBR Auto Body Tech Certification (https://dbr.ri.gov/autobody_techcerts).
Facility Tie-In
The CIT/CIRT credential is the individual side of Rhode Island's emissions program. The shop holds an inspection station license; the shop must employ at least one technician with the appropriate CIT/CIRT credential to perform emissions inspections or post-failure repairs.
Note on Scope
Rhode Island does not require an individual mechanic license for general motor vehicle repair work. The CIT/CIRT credentials authorize emissions-related work specifically. The Motor Vehicle Body Repair Technician credential is a separate body-shop credential.
Verified May 1, 2026 · compiled from public sources, verify current rules with Rhode Island Department of Revenue — Division of Motor Vehicles / Rhode Island Vehicle Inspection Program before acting