R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-24-5: Issuance of license — Transfer.

Upon receipt of an application for license, the department shall issue a license if the applicant meets the requirements established under this chapter. If all the requirements under this chapter are not met, the department may issue a provisional license for a period not to exceed six (6) months if the issuance will not result in undue hazard to residents or clients. A license issued under this chapter shall be the property of the state and loaned to the licensee, and it shall be kept in an accessible place at all times on the licensed premises. Each license shall be issued only for the premises and persons or governmental units named in the application and shall not be transferable or assignable except with the written approval of the department.