Rhode Island § 31-10-28 - Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-10-28 — Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 31-10-28. Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses

R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-10-28

§ 31-10-28. Restricted licenses.

(a) The division of motor vehicles, upon issuing an operator’s or chauffeur’s license, shall have the authority whenever good cause appears to impose restrictions suitable to the licensee’s driving ability with respect to the type of, or special mechanical control devices required on a motor vehicle which the licensee may operate or the other restrictions applicable to the licensee as the division of motor vehicles may determine to be appropriate to assure the safe operation of a motor vehicle by the licensee.

(b) The division of motor vehicles may either issue a special restricted license or may set forth such restrictions upon the usual license form. In the case of an individual who, because of any visual disability, is prohibited from operating a motor vehicle in darkness, the division of motor vehicles, upon receipt of an affidavit from a licensed physician or ophthalmologist certifying that the individual is capable of operating a motor vehicle during the daylight hours, may issue a special restricted license permitting the individual to operate a motor vehicle only during the daylight hours.

(c) The division of motor vehicles may upon receiving satisfactory evidence of any violation of the restrictions of a restricted license suspend or revoke the license but the licensee shall be entitled to a hearing as upon a suspension or revocation under chapter 2 of this title.

(d) It is a civil violation for any person to operate a motor vehicle in any manner in violation of the restrictions imposed in a restricted license issued to that person.

History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 15, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-24; G.L. 1956, § 31-10-28; P.L. 1962, ch. 204, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 280, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 6, § 4.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-10-28

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-10-28 cover?

Section 31-10-28 ("Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses") 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 § 31-10-28?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-10-28" (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 § 31-10-28 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.