R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-14-6: Safety and sanitary condition of vehicles — Inspection.

The division of motor vehicles shall have jurisdiction over the lighting, equipment, safety, and sanitary condition of all taxicabs or limited public motor vehicles, and shall cause an inspection thereof to be made before registering the taxicabs or limited public motor vehicles, and from time to time thereafter, as it shall deem necessary for the convenience, protection, and safety of passengers and of the public. A fee of one dollar ($1.00) shall be paid to the division of motor vehicles for each annual inspection and for each taxicab or limited public motor vehicle operator’s license hereafter issued by the division.