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Franchise law guide

Rhode Island Franchise Law Guide: Franchise Investment Act (19-28.1) & the DBR

What a prospective franchisee should know about Rhode Island franchise registration and disclosure before signing.

Last reviewed: May 26, 2026 by the BizLeaseCheck Editorial Team

General information, not legal advice.

Analyze a franchise disclosure document (FDD) All franchise-law states

Overview

Rhode Island regulates the offer and sale of franchises under the Franchise Investment Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-28.1), administered by the Department of Business Regulation (DBR) Securities Division.

Franchisors generally must register before offering or selling a franchise in Rhode Island, and the federal 14-day disclosure rule still applies.

What to check

Rhode Island law is the Franchise Investment Act (19-28.1)High confidence

The DBR Securities Division administers and enforces the Franchise Investment Act, R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-28.1.

The Department offers an Application for Franchise Registration and an Application for Exemption from Registration.

Rhode Island DBR — Franchising
Registration timing and renewalHigh confidence

A franchise registration application is generally effective on the 30th business day after filing (or the last amendment), unless the director acts earlier or the applicant postpones.

Registration expires 120 calendar days after the end of the franchisor’s fiscal year, and is renewed by applying 30 days before expiration.

R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-28.1-9
What this means for a franchiseeNeeds lawyer verification

Confirm the franchisor’s Rhode Island registration is effective and that you received the FDD at least 14 days before signing.

Rhode Island’s exemptions and relationship provisions are technical; confirm specifics with a franchise attorney.

Rhode Island DBR — Securities Division

Key takeaways

  • Rhode Island regulates franchises under the Franchise Investment Act (19-28.1).
  • The DBR Securities Division administers registration and exemptions.
  • Registration is generally effective on the 30th business day after filing.
  • Registration expires 120 days after the franchisor’s fiscal year end.
  • You should receive the FDD at least 14 days before signing (federal rule).

Official resources

FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436) 16 CFR Part 436 — full rule (eCFR) Rhode Island DBR — Franchising R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-28.1-9

Legal-review notes

Guide confidence marker: High confidence.

  • Confirm current Rhode Island registration timing, fees, and exemptions with the DBR Securities Division.
  • Verify R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-28.1 relationship and exemption provisions before relying on them.

Frequently asked questions

Does Rhode Island require franchise registration?

Yes. Under the Franchise Investment Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 19-28.1), franchisors generally must register with the DBR Securities Division before offering or selling a franchise in Rhode Island, unless exempt.

When does a Rhode Island registration take effect?

Generally on the 30th business day after filing (or the last amendment), unless the director acts earlier or the applicant requests postponement.

Which agency regulates franchises in Rhode Island?

The Department of Business Regulation (DBR), Securities Division.