Rhode Island § 31-2-1 - Division of Motor Vehicles
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-2-1 — Division of Motor Vehicles, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-2-1. Division of Motor Vehicles
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-2-1
§ 31-2-1. Establishment — Duties — Chief of division.
Within the department of revenue there shall be a division of motor vehicles. The division will be responsible for activities assigned to it by law, including, but not limited to, motor vehicle registration, testing and licensing of motor vehicle operators, inspection of motor vehicles, and enforcement of laws relating to the issuance, suspension, and revocation of motor vehicle registrations and drivers’ licenses. The division shall administer the financial responsibility law. The chief of the division shall use the title and designation “registrar” or “administrator” on all licenses, registrations, orders of suspensions, financial responsibility notices or orders, or any other official documents issued or promulgated by the division. The chief shall exercise all powers and duties prescribed by chapters 1 — 27 of this title and shall supervise and direct the promotion of highway traffic safety.
On or before January 1, 2027, the administrator in consultation with the department of transportation is hereby directed to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the general assembly regarding options to index or update fees charged in § 31-6-1(27)(i) and any other related changes for battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and hybrid electric vehicles. The report at a minimum shall include information and practices in other states.
History of Section.
P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 22; P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 2, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-2-1; P.L.
2000, ch. 109, § 77; P.L. 2006, ch. 246, art. 38, § 4; P.L. 2025, ch. 278, art. 11,
§ 1, effective June 29, 2025.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-2-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-2-1 cover?
Section 31-2-1 ("Division of Motor Vehicles") 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 § 31-2-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-2-1" (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 § 31-2-1 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.