Rhode Island § 20-13-4 - Hunting and Hunting Safety
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 20-13-4 — Hunting and Hunting Safety, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-13-4. Hunting and Hunting Safety
R.I. Gen. Laws § 20-13-4
§ 20-13-4. Certificate of competency required for initial license.
(a) No license to hunt shall be issued to any person unless that person has held a hunting license in a prior year or unless the person presents to the licensing agent a certificate of competency issued under § 20-13-2, or under an equivalent hunter safety program adopted by any other state; provided, that in the case of those qualifying only for use of archery equipment, the licensing agent shall mark across the face of the license “archery only.” A hunting license designated “archery only” is limited to the use of bows and arrows while hunting or pursuing game in this state. Each agent shall transmit all competency certificates presented to the agent to the department of environmental management, along with the reports required to be filed pursuant to § 20-2-3.
(b) Any person who is serving in, or who has been honorably discharged from, the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, or Coast Guard, or any women’s auxiliary branch, is not required to obtain a certificate of competency under this section or § 20-13-2.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 197, § 3; P.L. 2025, ch. 165, § 7, effective June 24, 2025; P.L. 2025,
ch. 166, § 7, effective June 24, 2025.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 20-13-4
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 20-13-4 cover?
Section 20-13-4 ("Hunting and Hunting Safety") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 20-13-4?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 20-13-4" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 20-13-4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.