Rhode Island § 31-4-1 - Transfer of Vehicles
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-4-1 — Transfer of Vehicles, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-4-1. Transfer of Vehicles
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-4-1
§ 31-4-1. Expiration of registration by transfer of interest in vehicle — Disposition of plates.
Whenever the owner of a registered vehicle transfers or assigns his or her title or interest in ownership, or whenever he or she shall request the transfer of the registration to another vehicle owned by him or her, or shall remove the vehicle from the highways of this state to be used solely upon his or her property, the registration of the vehicle shall expire. The owner shall remove the registration plates from the vehicle and forward them to the division of motor vehicles, or may have such plates and the registration number thereon assigned to another vehicle upon payment of the fees required by law and subject to the rules and regulations of the division of motor vehicles. Any corporation or limited liability company in the business of providing vehicle leasing or vehicle rental may cancel a registration by submitting a sworn, notarized affidavit to the division of motor vehicles stating that the registration plates are unavailable due to loss, theft, or other reasons.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 4, § 1; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-4-1; P.L.
1999, ch. 495, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 362, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-4-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-4-1 cover?
Section 31-4-1 ("Transfer of 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 § 31-4-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-4-1" (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 § 31-4-1 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.