Rhode Island General Laws Title 1. Aeronautics § 1-4-5. Pilot's license required

No person shall operate any civil aircraft within this state unless that person is the holder of an effective pilot's license, permit, or certificate issued by the government of the United States. This restriction shall not apply to any person operating any aircraft licensed by a foreign country with which the United States has a reciprocal agreement covering the operation of licensed aircraft nor to persons operating model aircraft, nor to any person piloting an aircraft that is equipped with fully functioning dual controls when a certified instructor is in full charge of one set of those controls. No person shall operate any civil aircraft in this state in violation of any term, specification, or limitation of his or her pilot's license, permit, or certificate.