reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-7 - Foreign Vehicles › Section 31-7-5. - Suspension or revocation of rights of nonresidents.

§ 31-7-5. Suspension or revocation of rights of nonresidents.
Whenever the division of motor vehicles shall suspend or revoke the right of any nonresident person to operate any motor vehicle, or to have operated any motor vehicle, owned by any nonresident upon the public highways of this state, it shall suspend or revoke that right for the same periods of time and upon the same grounds that it is required to suspend or revoke the license of any chauffeur or operator by §§ 31-11-6, 31-11-7, 31-11-8, and 31-11-18.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 5, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-7-5; P.L. 1959 (s.s.), ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-7 - Foreign Vehicles › Section 31-7-6. - Long arm jurisdiction.

§ 31-7-6. Long arm jurisdiction.
(a)
The acceptance by a nonresident of the rights and privileges conferred by chapters 1 — 27 of this title, as evidenced by the operation of a motor vehicle by the nonresident, his or her servant or agent, or the operation by a nonresident, his or her servant or agent, of a motor vehicle on a public highway in this state other than under said chapters, shall be deemed equivalent to an appointment by the nonresident of the administrator of the division of motor vehicles or his or her successor in office, to be the nonresident’s true and lawful attorney upon whom may be served all lawful processes in any action or proceeding against the nonresident or his or her executor or administrator, growing out of any accident or collision in which the nonresident, his or her servant or agent, may be involved while operating a motor vehicle within this state. Acceptance or operation by the nonresident shall be deemed a signification of the nonresident’s agreement that any such process against the nonresident or his or her executor or administrator which is served as provided in this chapter shall be of the same legal force and validity as if served on the nonresident personally.
(b)
This section shall also apply to a foreign corporation and to any resident of the state who becomes a nonresident prior to the commencement of an action against the corporation or resident, or his or her executor or administrator, growing out of any accident or collision in which that person or his or her agent may have been involved while operating a motor vehicle within this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 5, § 2; art. 19, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-7-6; P.L. 1966, ch. 195, § 1; P.L. 1967, ch. 78, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-7 - Foreign Vehicles › Section 31-7-7. - Service on nonresident.

§ 31-7-7. Service on nonresident.
(a)
Service of process on a nonresident shall be made by leaving a copy of the process with a fee of five dollars ($5.00) in the hands of the administrator of the division of motor vehicles or in his or her office with some one acting in his or her stead as the administrator of the division of motor vehicles and the service shall be sufficient service upon the nonresident.
(b)
Notice of the service and a copy of the process shall be sent by registered or certified mail prior to service or immediately after service by the plaintiff or his or her attorney of record, to the defendant at the address given upon the defendant’s registration or operator’s license. The sender’s post office receipt of sending and the plaintiff’s or his or her attorney’s affidavit of compliance are to be returned with the process in accordance with applicable procedural rules.
(c)
Notwithstanding the requirements in subsections (a) and (b) of this section, however, once service has been made on the administrator of the division of motor vehicles as provided in this section, the court shall have the authority in the event of the failure to comply with the requirement of notice to the nonresident to order any notice that shall be sufficient to apprise the nonresident of the pendency of the suit against him or her, and in addition may extend the time for answering by the nonresident. It is also sufficient if notice and a copy of the process are served upon the defendant outside the state in accordance with applicable procedural rules.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 5, § 2; art. 19, § 2; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3717, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-7-7; P.L. 1960, ch. 75, § 7; P.L. 1961, ch. 124, § 1; P.L. 1967, ch. 78, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-7 - Foreign Vehicles › Section 31-7-8. - Process fee as costs — Record of processes.

§ 31-7-8. Process fee as costs — Record of processes.
The fee of five dollars ($5.00) paid by the plaintiff to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles, or in the administrator’s office, at the time of the service shall be taxed in the plaintiff’s costs if he or she prevails in the suit. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall keep a record of all processes served on nonresidents which shall show the day and hour of service and pay to the general treasurer all fees so paid.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 3595, art. 5, § 2; art. 19, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-7-8; P.L. 1960, ch. 75, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-7 - Foreign Vehicles › Section 31-7-9. - Offenses — Nonresident bond posting.

§ 31-7-9. Offenses — Nonresident bond posting.
Every nonresident operator, who is charged by a member of the state police or by a member of the police department of any city or town of this state with a violation of any provision of chapters 14, 15, and 16 of this title, except for a violation included under chapter 41 of this title, may be required to deposit in escrow the sum of twenty-five dollars ($25.00), or to post a proper bond for that amount, with the state or local police department preferring the charge as a prerequisite to the nonresident operator being released for appearance at a later date before the court of proper jurisdiction upon the charge. The deposit so posted shall be returned to the nonresident, or the bond so posted shall be cancelled, upon the nonresident’s appearance before the court of proper jurisdiction for the disposition of the offense charged and effectuation of sentence, if any. If the nonresident shall fail to appear before the court of proper jurisdiction on the date and at the time assigned for the disposition of the offense charged, the deposit or bond, as the case may be, shall be forfeited and paid over to the clerk of court to be disbursed as if the defendant had been convicted and a fine and costs equal to that sum had been imposed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1967, ch. 216, § 1; P.L. 1971, ch. 177, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 324, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-1. - Operation of vehicles without evidences of registration.

§ 31-8-1. Operation of vehicles without evidences of registration.
No person shall operate, nor shall an owner knowingly permit to be operated, upon any highway or bicycle trail or path, any vehicle required to be registered pursuant to this title unless there has been issued for it a valid registration card and unless there is attached to it and displayed on it, when and as required by chapters 3 — 9 of this title, a valid registration plate or plates issued for it by the division of motor vehicles for the current registration year except as otherwise expressly permitted in those chapters. Any violation of this section shall be punishable by a fine of eighty-five dollars ($85.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 13, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-2; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-1; P.L. 1971, ch. 101, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 81, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 413, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 12, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-1.1. - Operation of beach vehicle without permit.

§ 31-8-1.1. Operation of beach vehicle without permit.
No person shall operate, nor shall an owner knowingly permit to be operated, upon a beach as defined by the coastal resources management council, any vehicle required to be registered by the coastal resources management council unless there has been issued a valid beach registration permit and unless there is attached on it and displayed on it a valid registration sticker issued by the coastal resources management council for the current registration year. Any violation of this section shall be punishable by a fine of not less that twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than seventy-five dollars ($75.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 306, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-2. - Operation of vehicle when registration canceled, suspended, or revoked.

§ 31-8-2. Operation of vehicle when registration canceled, suspended, or revoked.
No person shall operate, nor shall an owner knowingly permit to be operated, upon any highway, a motor vehicle the registration of which has been canceled, suspended, or revoked. Any violation of this section is a civil violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 101, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 6, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-3. - Improper use of evidences of registration or certificate of title.

§ 31-8-3. Improper use of evidences of registration or certificate of title.
No person shall lend to another any certificate of title, registration card, registration plate, special plate, or permit issued to him or her if the person desiring to borrow it would not be entitled to its use. Nor shall any person knowingly permit its use by one not so entitled. Nor shall any person display upon a vehicle any registration plate or permit not issued for that vehicle or not otherwise lawfully used on it under chapters 3 — 9 of this title. Any violation of this section is a civil violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 13, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-3; P.L. 1971, ch. 101, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 6, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-4. - Suspension or revocation of registration or certificate of title.

§ 31-8-4. Suspension or revocation of registration or certificate of title.
(a)
The division of motor vehicles is authorized to suspend or revoke the registration of a vehicle or a certificate of title, registration card, or registration plate, or any nonresident or other permit, in any of the following events:
(1)
When the division of motor vehicles is satisfied that the registration or that the certificate, card, plate, or permit was fraudulently or erroneously issued;
(2)
When the division of motor vehicles determines that a registered vehicle is mechanically unfit or unsafe to be operated or moved upon the highways;
(3)
When a registered vehicle has been dismantled or wrecked;
(4)
When the division of motor vehicles determines that the required fee has not been paid and the fee is not paid upon reasonable notice and demand;
(5)
When a registration plate or permit is knowingly displayed upon a vehicle other than the one for which issued;
(6)
When the division of motor vehicles determines that the owner has committed any offense under chapters 3 — 9 of this title involving the registration or the certificate, card, plate, or permit to be suspended or revoked;
(7)
When the division of motor vehicles is so authorized under any other provision of law; or
(8)
Upon receipt of notice the carrier and/or operator of a commercial motor vehicle has violated or is not in compliance with 49 C.F.R. 386.72 or 49 C.F.R. 390.5 et seq. of the motor carrier safety regulations or chapter 23 of this title.
(b)
Upon removal of cause for which the registration or certificate of title was revoked, denied, or suspended, the division of motor vehicles shall require the registrant or applicant to pay a restoration fee of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250), provided that no restoration fee shall be required if the revocation, denial, or suspension was issued pursuant to subsection (a)(2) of this section, §§ 31-38-2, 31-38-3, 31-38-4, or 31-47.1-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 13, § 5; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-5; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-4; P.L. 1971, ch. 101, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 382, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 275, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 5, art. 9, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 8, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-5. - Suspension or revocation of certificate or special plates of manufacturer, transporter, or dealer.

§ 31-8-5. Suspension or revocation of certificate or special plates of manufacturer, transporter, or dealer.
The division of motor vehicles is also authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate or the special plates issued to a manufacturer, bailee, or dealer upon determining that this person is not lawfully entitled to it; has made or knowingly permitted any illegal use of those plates; has committed fraud in the registration of vehicles; or has failed to give notices of transfers when and as required by chapters 3 — 9 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 13, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-6; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-5; P.L. 1971, ch. 101, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-8 - Offenses Against Registration and Certificate of Title Laws › Section 31-8-6. - Owner to return evidences of registration upon cancellation, suspension, or revocation.

§ 31-8-6. Owner to return evidences of registration upon cancellation, suspension, or revocation.
Whenever the division of motor vehicles as authorized pursuant to this title cancels, suspends, or revokes the registration of a vehicle, or a certificate of title, registration card or registration plate or plates, or any nonresident or other permit, or the license of any dealer or wrecker, that registration, certificate, or permit shall be invalid and the owner or person in possession of it shall immediately return the evidences of registration, title, or license so canceled, suspended or revoked to the division of motor vehicles. If the owner or person in possession fails to return it the division of motor vehicles may immediately direct any peace officer to secure possession of it and to return it to the division of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 13, § 7; P.L. 1954, ch. 3277, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-7; G.L. 1956, § 31-8-6; P.L. 1971, ch. 101, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-1. - Driving without consent of owner or lessee.

§ 31-9-1. Driving without consent of owner or lessee.
Any person who drives a vehicle, not his or her own, without the consent of its owner or lessee, and with intent temporarily to deprive the owner or lessee of his or her possession of the vehicle, without intent to steal the vehicle, is guilty of a felony. The consent of the owner or lessee of a vehicle to its taking or driving shall not in any case be presumed or implied because of the owner’s or lessee’s consent on a prior occasion to the taking or driving of that vehicle by the same or a different person. Any person who assists in, or is a party or accessory to or an accomplice in any unauthorized taking or driving, is guilty of a felony. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) or imprisoned for a term of not more than five (5) years, or both.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-1; P.L. 1986, ch. 272, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 356, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 24; P.L. 1989, ch. 73, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 238, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-2. - Possession of stolen vehicle or parts.

§ 31-9-2. Possession of stolen vehicle or parts.
(a)
Any person who, with intent to procure or pass title to a vehicle which he or she knows or has reason to believe has been stolen or unlawfully taken, receives or transfers possession of the vehicle from or to another, or who has in his or her possession any vehicle which that person knows or has reason to believe has been stolen or unlawfully taken, and who is not an officer of the law engaged at the time in the performance of his duty as an officer of the law, is guilty of a felony.
(b)
Any person who receives, barters, conceals, stores, sells, conveys, or disposes of stolen vehicle parts which that person knows or has reason to believe have been stolen or unlawfully taken is guilty of a felony. Conviction for a second and for subsequent convictions under this section may be punished by imprisonment for a term of not less than one year nor more than ten (10) years, or by a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or by both fine and imprisonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-2; P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-3. - Injuring or tampering with vehicles.

§ 31-9-3. Injuring or tampering with vehicles.
Any person who either individually or in association with one or more other persons willfully injures or tampers with any vehicle or breaks or removes any part or parts of or from a vehicle without the consent of the owner is guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-4. - Manipulating controls with malicious intent.

§ 31-9-4. Manipulating controls with malicious intent.
Any person who with intent to commit any malicious mischief, injury, or other crime climbs into or upon a vehicle whether it is in motion or at rest, or with like intent attempts to manipulate any of the levers, starting mechanism, brakes, or other mechanisms or devices of a vehicle while the vehicle is at rest and unattended, or with like intent sets in motion any vehicle while the vehicle is at rest and unattended is guilty of a misdemeanor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-5. - Alteration of identification number.

§ 31-9-5. Alteration of identification number.
(a)(1)
No person shall with fraudulent intent remove, deface, destroy, or alter the manufacturer’s serial or engine number or any other distinguishing number or identification mark of a motor vehicle or any of its parts nor shall any person place or stamp any serial, engine, or other number or mark upon a motor vehicle or any part, except one assigned to it by the division of motor vehicles. Any violation of this provision is a felony.
(2)
The fact that a person removed, defaced, destroyed, or altered the manufacturer’s serial or engine number or any other distinguishing number or identification mark of a motor vehicle or part, or that a person placed or stamped on a motor vehicle part any serial, engine, or other number or mark different from that originally assigned by the manufacturer to it, without first obtaining a permit from the division of motor vehicles, shall be prima facie evidence of that person’s fraudulent intent.
(b)
This section shall not prohibit the restoration by an owner of an original serial, engine, or other number or mark when that restoration is made under a permit issued by the division of motor vehicles, nor prevent any manufacturer from placing in the ordinary course of business numbers or marks upon motor vehicles or their parts.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-5; P.L. 1978, ch. 196, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 7; P.L. 1984, ch. 264, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-6. - Possession of any motor vehicle or part thereof with altered identification number.

§ 31-9-6. Possession of any motor vehicle or part thereof with altered identification number.
Any individual, company, or corporation who knowingly buys, receives, disposes of, sells, offers for sale, or has in his or her possession any motor vehicle, or its parts, from which the manufacturer’s serial or engine number or derivative of that number which is ascribed to that vehicle or part by the manufacturer, the owner, or the division of motor vehicles, or from which any other distinguishing number or identification mark or number placed on it under assignment from the division of motor vehicles has been removed, defaced, covered, altered, or destroyed for the purpose of concealing or misrepresenting the identity of that motor vehicle or its parts is guilty of a felony.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-6; P.L. 1978, ch. 197, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-7. - Reports by police officers of thefts and recoveries.

§ 31-9-7. Reports by police officers of thefts and recoveries.
Every proper officer, upon receiving reliable information that any vehicle registered under this title has been stolen, shall immediately report the theft to the division of motor vehicles unless prior to this discovery information has been received of the recovery of the vehicle. Any officer, upon receiving information that any vehicle, which was previously reported as stolen, has been recovered, shall immediately report the fact of that recovery to his or her department and the division of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-7; P.L. 1979, ch. 254, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-8. - Notice by owner of theft or embezzlement.

§ 31-9-8. Notice by owner of theft or embezzlement.
The owner of, or person having a lien or encumbrance upon, a registered vehicle which has been stolen or embezzled may notify the division of motor vehicles of the theft or embezzlement, but in the event of an embezzlement may make a report only after having procured the issuance of a warrant for the arrest of the person charged with the embezzlement.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-9. - Filing and indexing of theft and embezzlement reports.

§ 31-9-9. Filing and indexing of theft and embezzlement reports.
The division of motor vehicles, upon receiving a report of a stolen or embezzled vehicle as previously provided for in this chapter, shall file and appropriately index the report.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 3; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-10. - Weekly lists of stolen vehicles.

§ 31-9-10. Weekly lists of stolen vehicles.
The division of motor vehicles shall at least once each week compile and maintain at its headquarters office a list of all vehicles which have been stolen, embezzled, or recovered as reported to it during the preceding week. Those lists shall be sent to the various police departments in the state and shall be open to inspection by any person interested in any stolen or embezzled vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 12, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-9-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-9 - Theft and Related Offenses › Section 31-9-11. - Sale, purchase, or possession of keys or manipulative devices for automobiles.

§ 31-9-11. Sale, purchase, or possession of keys or manipulative devices for automobiles.
Any person who shall sell, offer for sale, purchase, or have in his or her possession keys or manipulative devices designed or adapted to operate the ignition switches, door locks, or trunk locks of two (2) or more motor vehicles, the ignition switches, door locks, and trunk locks of which are designed or intended to be operated with a different key or set of keys for each vehicle, and those vehicles are not owned or leased by that person or in his or her lawful possession and control, unless that person is a locksmith, a duly licensed automobile dealer, a duly licensed body repair shop, an officer or employee of an automobile club or association, or a member of a duly authorized law enforcement agency, shall be guilty of a felony.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 95, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 221, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-1. - License required to drive.

§ 31-10-1. License required to drive.
(a)
No person, except those expressly exempted in this chapter, shall drive any motor vehicle upon a highway in this state unless that person has a valid license as an operator or chauffeur under the provisions of this chapter. No person shall receive an operator’s license unless and until he or she surrenders to the division of motor vehicles all valid operators’ licenses in his or her possession issued to that person by any other jurisdiction. All surrendered licenses shall be returned by the division of motor vehicles to the issuer together with the information that the licensee is now licensed in this state. No person shall be permitted to have more than one valid operator’s license at any time. Any resident as defined under § 31-1-18 shall be required to obtain a Rhode Island operator’s or chauffeur’s license within thirty (30) days of establishing residency.
(b)
No person shall drive a motor vehicle as a chauffeur unless he or she holds a valid chauffeur’s license. No person shall receive a chauffeur’s license unless and until he or she surrenders to the division of motor vehicles any operator’s license issued to him or her, or an affidavit that he or she does not possess an operator’s license.
(c)
Any person holding a valid chauffeur’s license under this chapter need not procure an operator’s license.
(d)
Any person licensed as an operator or chauffeur under this chapter may exercise the privilege granted by that license upon all streets and highways in this state, and shall not be required to obtain any other license to exercise that privilege by any county, municipal, or local board, or by any body having authority to adopt local police regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-1; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 26, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-2. - Persons exempt from licensing requirements.

§ 31-10-2. Persons exempt from licensing requirements.
The following persons are exempt from the licensing requirements of this chapter:
(1)
Any employee of the United States government while operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased to the United States government and being operated on official business;
(2)
A nonresident who is at least sixteen (16) years of age and who has in his or her immediate possession a valid operator’s license issued to him or her in his or her home state or country may operate a motor vehicle in this state only as an operator;
(3)
A nonresident who is at least eighteen (18) years of age and who has in his or her immediate possession a valid chauffeur’s license issued to him or her in his or her home state or country may operate a motor vehicle in this state either as an operator or chauffeur. Subject to the age limits applicable to chauffeurs in this state, that license shall be accepted as a chauffeur class I license. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a nonresident must submit an application for a chauffeur class I license which must be approved before a nonresident may be employed as a chauffeur in this state;
(4)
Any nonresident who is at least eighteen (18) years of age, whose home state or country does not require the licensing of operators, may operate a motor vehicle as an operator only, for a period of not more than ninety (90) days in any calendar year, if the motor vehicle so operated is duly registered in the home state or country of that nonresident;
(5)
Any operator of any traction engine, road roller, farm tractor, crane, power shovel, well-borer, and any other road and building construction machinery and equipment, other than a truck used for the transportation of materials.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 2; P.L. 1954, ch. 3323, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-2; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 273, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-3. - Persons ineligible for licenses.

§ 31-10-3. Persons ineligible for licenses.
(a)
The division of motor vehicles shall not issue any license under this chapter:
(1)
To any person, as an operator, who is under the age of sixteen (16) years;
(2)
To any person, as a chauffeur, who is under the age of eighteen (18) years;
(3)
To any person, as an operator or chauffeur, whose license has been suspended, during that suspension, nor to any person whose license has been revoked, except as provided in § 31-11-10;
(4)
To any person, as an operator or chauffeur, who is a habitual drunkard or habitual user of drugs to such an extent that he or she is incapable of safely driving a motor vehicle;
(5)
To any person, as an operator or chauffeur, who is required by this chapter to take an examination unless that person shall have successfully passed that examination;
(6)
To any person who is required under the laws of this state to deposit proof of financial responsibility and who has not deposited that proof;
(7)
To any person when the administrator of the division of motor vehicles has good cause based on clear and convincing evidence to believe that that person does not meet a standard of physical or mental fitness for motor vehicle licensure established pursuant to § 31-10-44(b) and that the person’s physical or mental condition prevents him or her from being able to operate a motor vehicle with safety upon the highway;
(8)
To any person when the administrator of the division of motor vehicles has good cause to believe that the operation of a motor vehicle on the highways by that person would pose an imminent safety risk to the general public as determined by objectively ascertainable standards;
(9)
To any person who is subject to an order issued pursuant to § 14-1-67.
(b)
The division of motor vehicles shall notify in writing any person whose application for a license has been denied pursuant to subsection (a) of this section. The notice shall contain the factual and legal basis for the denial, the procedure for requesting a hearing, and the rights afforded the individual pursuant to the provisions of § 31-11-7(d) — (f). When physical or mental fitness is the basis for the denial, the notice shall reference the specific functional standard promulgated pursuant to § 31-10-44(b), which was relied upon by the division of motor vehicles. Upon his or her request the division of motor vehicles shall afford the license applicant an opportunity for a hearing as early as practical and no later than twenty (20) days after receipt of the request.
(c)
The hearing procedures afforded the applicant shall conform to the provisions of § 31-11-7(d) — (f).
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 3; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-3; P.L. 1959 (s.s.), ch. 190, § 2; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 196, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 89, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-4. - Classification of chauffeurs — Examination of applicants.

§ 31-10-4. Classification of chauffeurs — Examination of applicants.
The division of motor vehicles upon issuing a chauffeur’s license shall indicate on it the class of license so issued and shall appropriately examine each applicant according to the class of license applied for and may impose any rules and regulations for the exercise of that license as it may deem necessary for the safety and welfare of the traveling public.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-4; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-5.1. - School bus driver annual training.

§ 31-10-5.1. School bus driver annual training.
(a)
The department of revenue shall promulgate any rules and regulations that it deems necessary to ensure that a ten-hour (10) training course is provided for all new school bus drivers and a three-hour (3) retraining course is provided to all renewal applicants on at least a yearly basis.
(b)
The training shall include, but not be limited to, defensive driving, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s School Bus Driver In-Service Series, and instruction in all state laws, rules, and regulations relating to school buses and school bus safety.
(c)
Prior to any renewal of any certificate of a school bus driver, the division of motor vehicles shall require proof of the renewal applicant’s having successfully completed the annual retraining as provided in this section. Every ten (10) years that proof shall include the passing of a written examination prepared by the department of revenue, or the department of revenue’s designee, and conducted by employees of the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 413, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 9; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 9; P.L. 2016, ch. 47, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 56, § 1; P.L. 2022, ch. 425, § 1, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-6.1. - Supervising driver.

§ 31-10-6.1. Supervising driver.
A supervising driver must be the parent, guardian, licensed foster parent or adult or a certified driver education instructor. A supervising driver must be a licensed driver who has been licensed to drive for five (5) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-6.2. - Out-of-state exceptions.

§ 31-10-6.2. Out-of-state exceptions.
A nonresident who is at least seventeen (17) years old but less than eighteen (18) years old, who has an unrestricted drivers license issued by that state, and who becomes a resident of this state may apply for and obtain within thirty (30) days of establishing residency one of the following:
(1) Temporary permit.
If the person has not completed a drivers education course that meets the requirements of the department of education but is currently enrolled in a drivers education course that meets these requirements. A temporary permit is valid for the period specified in the permit and authorizes the holder of the permit to drive a specified type or class of motor vehicle when in possession of the permit, subject to any restrictions imposed by the division of motor vehicles concerning time of driving, supervision, and passenger limitations. The period must end within ten (10) days after the expected completion date of the drivers education course in which the applicant is enrolled.
(2) Full operator’s license.
If the person has completed a drivers education course that meets the requirements of the department of elementary and secondary education; has held the license issued by the other state for at least twelve (12) months; and has not been convicted during the preceding six (6) months of a motor vehicle moving violation, a seat belt infraction, or an offense committed in another jurisdiction that would be a motor vehicle moving violation or seat belt infraction if committed in this state.
(3) Limited provisional license.
If the person has completed a drivers education course that meets the requirements of the department of elementary and secondary education but either did not hold the license issued by the other state for at least twelve (12) months; or was convicted during the preceding six (6) months of a motor vehicle moving violation, a seat belt infraction or an offense committed in another jurisdiction that would be a motor vehicle moving violation or seat belt infraction if committed in this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 2; P.L. 2010, ch. 239, § 28.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-6.3. - Duration and fee.

§ 31-10-6.3. Duration and fee.
A limited instruction permit expires on the eighteenth (18th) birthday of the permit holder. A limited provisional license expires on the eighteenth (18th) birthday of the permit holder. A full operator’s license shall be issued and expires on the date pursuant to § 31-10-30. The fee for a limited instruction permit or a limited provisional license is ten dollars ($10.00). The fee for a full operator’s license is the amount prescribed in § 31-10-31.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-6.4. - Violations.

§ 31-10-6.4. Violations.
It is unlawful for the holder of a limited learner’s permit, a temporary permit or a limited provisional license to drive a motor vehicle in violation of the restrictions that apply to that permit or license. Failure to comply with a restriction concerning time of driving or the presence of a supervising driver in the vehicle constitutes operating a motor vehicle without a license. Failure to comply with any other restriction, including seating and passenger limitations, is an infraction punishable by a monetary fine of eighty-five dollars ($85.00) for the first offense, ninety-five dollars ($95.00) for the second offense, and one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a third or any subsequent offenses.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 2; P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 12, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-6.5. - Insurance status.

§ 31-10-6.5. Insurance status.
The holder of a limited instruction permit is not considered a licensed driver for purposes of determining the inexperience operator premium surcharge pursuant to automobile insurance policies.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 2; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-7. - Temporary driver’s permit — Persons over the age of eighteen (18).

§ 31-10-7. Temporary driver’s permit — Persons over the age of eighteen (18).
The division of motor vehicles may in its discretion issue a temporary driver’s permit to an applicant for a full operator’s license who has attained the age of eighteen (18). A temporary driver’s permit shall permit the applicant to operate a motor vehicle while the division of motor vehicles is completing its investigation and determination of all facts relative to the applicant’s right to receive a full operator’s license. The temporary driver’s permit must be in the applicant’s immediate possession while operating a motor vehicle, and it shall be invalid when the applicant’s license has been issued or for good cause has been refused.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 6; P.L. 1951, ch. 2826, § 13; P.L. 1954, ch. 3276, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-7; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-8. - Special armed forces operator’s license.

§ 31-10-8. Special armed forces operator’s license.
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles is authorized to issue a special form of motor vehicle operator’s license, at no fee, to any person serving in the armed forces of the United States who at the time of his or her entrance into the armed forces was a legal resident of Rhode Island and the holder of a valid license. The special license shall be valid during the term of the person’s period of service and for thirty (30) days thereafter unless sooner cancelled, suspended, or revoked for cause, and the person shall, while operating a motor vehicle upon the public highways, carry the special license upon his or her person and shall also carry upon his or her person conclusive evidence of the fact that he or she is a member of the armed forces of the United States.
History of Section.
P.L. 1955, ch. 3584, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-8; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-9. - Operator’s license issued after expiration of armed forces license.

§ 31-10-9. Operator’s license issued after expiration of armed forces license.
Whenever an armed forces special license shall become invalid by reason of expiration, the person to whom it was issued shall, within a period of three (3) years from the date of the expiration, be entitled to receive a regular motor vehicle operator’s license without submitting to an examination upon presentation of a proper application accompanied by the proper fee.
History of Section.
P.L. 1955, ch. 3584, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-9; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-10. - Rules as to armed forces license.

§ 31-10-10. Rules as to armed forces license.
The special license provided for in §§ 31-10-8 and 31-10-9, shall be issued under any rules and in any form that the administrator of the division of motor vehicles may prescribe. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1955, ch. 3584, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-10; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 106.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-11. - Application forms — Destruction of refused applications.

§ 31-10-11. Application forms — Destruction of refused applications.
Every application for an instruction permit or for an operator’s or chauffeur’s license shall be made upon a form furnished by the division of motor vehicles. Applications of unsuccessful applicants may be destroyed after a period of thirty (30) days from the date of the failure to pass the required examination.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 7; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-11; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-12. - Contents of application.

§ 31-10-12. Contents of application.
(a)
Every application for an instruction permit or for a license shall:
(1)
State the full name, date of birth, sex, and residence address of the applicant;
(2)
Briefly describe the applicant;
(3)
State whether the applicant has previously been licensed as an operator or chauffeur, and, if so, when and by what state or country, and whether any such license has ever been suspended or revoked;
(4)
State whether an application has ever been refused, and, if so, the date of and reason for the suspension, revocation, or refusal; and
(5)
Provide any further information bearing on the applicant’s character or ability to drive that may be required by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.
(b)
Every application shall state whether the applicant desires to donate tissue or organs pursuant to the provisions of chapter 18.6 of title 23.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-12; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 180, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-13. - Record from other jurisdiction.

§ 31-10-13. Record from other jurisdiction.
(a)
Whenever an application is received from a person previously licensed in another jurisdiction, the division of motor vehicles may request a copy of the operator’s record from that other jurisdiction. When received, the operator’s record shall become a part of the operator’s record in this state with the same force and effect as though entered on the operator’s record in this state in the original instance.
(b)
Whenever the division of motor vehicles receives a request for an operator’s record from another licensing jurisdiction the record shall be forwarded without charge.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 371, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-14. - Applications of minors.

§ 31-10-14. Applications of minors.
The application of any person under the age of eighteen (18) years for a limited instruction permit, a limited provisional license, or a full operator’s license shall be signed and verified, before a person authorized to administer oaths, by one or more of the following individuals: the father, mother, guardian, adult husband or wife, or licensed foster parent, who is a resident of this state and qualified to be a supervising driver pursuant to § 31-10-6.1. In the event there is no parent, guardian, or licensed foster parent, who meets these requirements, then by another responsible adult who is willing to assume the obligation imposed under §§ 31-10-1 — 31-10-33 upon a person signing the application of a minor.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-13; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-14; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 62, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 74, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 371, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 386, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-10 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses › Section 31-10-15. - Liability of person signing minor’s application.

§ 31-10-15. Liability of person signing minor’s application.
Any negligence or willful misconduct of a minor under the age of eighteen (18) years when driving a motor vehicle upon a highway shall be imputed to the person who has signed the application of that minor for a permit or license, which person shall be jointly and severally liable with the minor for any damages caused by the minor’s negligence or willful misconduct except as otherwise provided in § 31-10-16.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-14; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-15; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1.