RI Gen. Laws §16-11-2
Examinations Issuance of certificates.
The board of regents for elementary and secondary education shall hold, or cause to be held, in such places in different parts of the state and at such times as it may determine, examinations for the position of teacher in the public schools of this state; and the board of regents for elementary and secondary education is hereby authorized to issue certificates of qualification which shall be valid throughout the state for the grade and time specified therein. All fees which are assessed shall be deposited as general revenues.