R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-9.1-11

Every person who shall, after June 25, 1971 apply for a license to act as a pilot in the waters of this state, shall be a citizen or legal resident of the United States; shall possess a master’s license with a federal first class pilot’s endorsement covering the waters of Block Island Sound for which he or she makes an application; and shall conform to such physical and mental standards as the commission shall from time to time establish.