Rhode Island General Laws Title 31. Motor and Other Vehicles § 31-5-10. License required for dealers' plates

(a) No motor vehicle dealer, unless licensed in accordance with §§ 31-5-1 -- 31-5-20, shall be permitted to register or receive or use dealers' license plates. A licensed motor vehicle dealer may use these plates, as limited by the number approved by the department for the dealer.

(b) Whenever the department revokes or suspends a dealer's license pursuant to § 31-5-11, or whenever a dealer's license expires and is not renewed, the department may take possession of the licensee's dealer's license, dealer's license plates, and temporary plates until said licensee is reinstated by the department.