By Steve Klamkin WPRO News

The Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles is taking extra steps to help consumers, as the agency counts down to the switch next Wednesday to a new computer system, including a grace period to renew licenses and registrations.

The computer changeover has been years in the making, and the leadership says it will be monitoring the system closely and will be prepared to put a stop to the changeover if signs point to any problems.

“If there is anything that we have any uncomfort with, we’ll just keep running with the old system,” said DMV Administrator Walter “Bud” Craddock.

“This is not something that we’re going to be afraid to make the call if we have to.”

Craddock said Registry offices with the exception of the main office in Cranston will close for the transition from July 5 through July 17, and reservations can be made for appointments at the Cranston headquarters only during that time.

A change in state law will grant a 90-day grace period for licenses and registrations expiring in July through Sept. 30.

The agency is notifying local and state police and the Transportation Security Administration, advising that driver’s licenses that expire in July are recognized as a valid form of identification. Rhode Islanders traveling by air are still being advised to bring a second form of identification.

Temporary license plates will be recognized for up to 40 days, instead of 20 days.