R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-14.1-3
No person shall operate a public motor vehicle in any city or town in the state until the person shall have obtained a certificate from the division certifying that the applicant is fit, willing, and able to provide the services as a public motor vehicle in the transportation of passengers. The certificate shall be issued only after written application for it, accompanied by a fee of two hundred fifty dollars ($250), and after a public hearing has been conducted on it. All revenues under this section shall be deposited as general revenues. Certificates issued under this chapter shall be renewed before the close of business on December 31, of each calendar year. The renewal fee shall be one hundred dollars ($100) and shall be submitted with the renewal form. All revenues received under this section shall be deposited as general revenues.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-14.1-3