Is Kratom Legal in Rhode Island? (2026 Laws & KCPA Regulations)

Kratom is legal in Rhode Island, but it is also regulated under state law. Sale and possession are allowed for adults 21 and older, with sales allowed only at the fixed location of a retailer licensed by the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Last verified: October 12, 2026.

If you’re in Rhode Island, here’s what you need to know before buying kratom.

Rhode Island Kratom Laws (Quick Answer)

• ✅ Legal statewide
• 🔞 Restricted to adults 21 and older
• ⚖️ Regulated under the Rhode Island Kratom Act (R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 21-28.12)
• 🏪 Retail sale only at a Department of Health–licensed retailer's fixed location
• 🚫 Delivery of kratom to retail purchasers is prohibited

Can You Buy Kratom in Rhode Island?

Yes — kratom is legal to buy, sell, and possess in Rhode Island for adults 21 and older.

Rhode Island law allows kratom to be sold at retail only at the fixed location of a retailer licensed by the Department of Health, and delivery of kratom products to retail purchasers is prohibited (R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-9-13.23, effective April 1, 2026). Purchasers must be 21 or older.

The Rhode Island Kratom Act

Rhode Island regulates kratom under the Rhode Island Kratom Act, effective April 1, 2026.

Key Requirements:

• Must be 21 or older to purchase
• Retailers, distributors, manufacturers and importers must hold a Rhode Island Department of Health kratom license
• Retail sale only at the licensed retailer's fixed location; delivery to retail purchasers is prohibited
• Kratom products must be kept behind the counter
• Products containing synthetic alkaloids are prohibited

Is Kratom Legal in All Cities in Rhode Island?

Yes — kratom is legal throughout Rhode Island under uniform state regulation, with no major city or county bans.

History of Kratom Legality in Rhode Island

Rhode Island, which had scheduled kratom's alkaloids in 2017, repealed the ban and enacted the Rhode Island Kratom Act establishing a regulated 21+ market effective April 1, 2026.

What is Kratom?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been traditionally used in the region for cultural and historical practices.

Today, kratom is commonly sold as:

• Powder
• Capsules
• Extracts

Its legal status varies depending on state and local laws. For background, read The Origin of Kratom on the NuWave blog.

Final Thoughts

Kratom is legal in Rhode Island for adults 21 and older, but it may be sold at retail only at a Department of Health–licensed retailer's fixed location, and delivery to retail purchasers is prohibited.

Sources & Legal References

This page is reviewed against the leading kratom-law trackers. Verify the current law before buying or selling:

• R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-9-13.23 — Prohibition on the delivery sale of kratom products
• Rhode Island Department of Health — Kratom Licensing
• Global Kratom Coalition — Kratom Regulation Map
• American Kratom Association — Kratom in Your State

FDA Disclaimer

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Always consult your healthcare provider before using any product.