R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-33-11: Proof of responsibility for registration of vehicles owned by minors.

The division of motor vehicles shall not register any motor vehicle owned by any person under sixteen (16) years of age. The division of motor vehicles shall not register any motor vehicle owned by any person between sixteen (16) and eighteen (18) years of age unless the person shall furnish proof of financial responsibility for the future together with any certificate that the division of motor vehicles may require, signed by either parent, or the guardian of the person, approved or requesting the registration of the vehicle.