R.I. Gen. Laws § 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 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.