Why is there a tax if I moved from the state?

If you move from the state, you must cancel your registration and return your plates to the Registry of Motor Vehicles.  Otherwise, the tax and penalty will continue to be assessed until the registration is canceled or expires.

All motor vehicles registered in your name will be taxed each year by the city or town listed by you with the Registry of Motor Vehicles at which the vehicle will be kept.  This tax is referred to as the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax and that tax is assessed in accordance with Title 44, Chapter 34 of the General Laws of the State of Rhode Island.