Process servers in Rhode Island are not licensed. A sheriff or the sheriff’s deputy, within the sheriff’s county, or by a duly authorized constable, or by any person who is not a party to the action and is at least 18 years of age, shall make Service of process.

Personal service is effected upon an individual from whom a waiver has not been obtained and filed by delivering a copy of divorce papers to the plaintiff personally or by leaving copies thereof at his or her residence or usual place of abode with some person of maturity and discretion living there, or by delivering a copy of the papers to an agent authorized by appointment or by law to receive service of process, provided that if the agent is one designated by statute to receive service, such further notice be given. Service is forbidden on Sundays.

When necessary, the court shall order service by publication of a notice of the action in one or more newspapers in such form and for such length of time as the court shall direct.