R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-4-6
Whenever the title or interest of an owner in or to a registered vehicle shall pass to another otherwise than by voluntary transfer, the registration for the vehicle shall expire and the vehicle shall not be operated upon any highway unless and until the person entitled to possession of the vehicle shall apply for and obtain the registration for it. However, when the title or interest of the owner passes to another by reason of death, insolvency, or bankruptcy, the vehicle may continue to be operated under the registration previously issued for it until the possession of the vehicle has been transferred by the legal representative, assignee, receiver, or trustee in bankruptcy, or until the registration shall expire, whichever shall first occur.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-4-6