Commercial Drivers Licensing Resources
For Judges

Rhode Island

Cases
Statutes
Resources

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Cases

State v. Bettencourt, 766 A. 2d 391 – RI: Supreme Court (2001)

Maximum sentence upheld for conviction of two counts of driving so as to endanger, death resulting, notwithstanding defendant’s claim that his sentence was enhanced simply because he held a commercial driver’s license, holding that trial judge was bound only by statutory limits, and even though trial court properly considered defendant’s possession of a CDL, that factor was not the linchpin upon which the decision was based.

SLIWINSKI v. Harrington, 672 A. 2d 465 – RI: Supreme Court (1996)

An equally divided court affirmed the decision of the Administrative Adjudication Court Appeals Panel’s decision rescinding an order suspending Plaintiff’s driver’s license.  Plaintiff had secured a “limited” Florida driver’s license (valid in Florida only) and the department therefore suspended her Rhode Island driver’s license pursuant to sec. 31-11-16.

Statutes

Adoption of Federal Regulations

What Constitutes a CMV

Major Disqualifying Offenses

Major Disqualifying Offenses (Alcohol)

Serious Traffic Offenses

Identification of Conviction

Masking Convictions

10-Day Posting Requirement

Other CDL Provisions

Disqualifications for Railroad/Out of Service

Resources

Article: More Than 1,200 Truck Drivers Fail English-Language Tests

More than 1,200 U.S. truck drivers have been taken off the road after failing roadside English proficiency tests required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The effort, reinstated under Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, is meant to improve safety by making sure drivers can read traffic signs, complete paperwork, and communicate clearly.

Webcast: Traffic Jam: How Commercial Drivers Impact Human Trafficking in Rhode Island – June 4, 2025

This Webcast focused on human trafficking and its impact on commercial drivers in Rhode Island courts. The presenter, Hon. Jonah Triebwasser, provided an overview of human trafficking, including its definition, various forms, legal aspects, and statistics. The discussion covered myths about trafficking, economic impacts, legislation, and the importance of recognizing signs and raising awareness to combat this widespread issue.