Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Trades
Carpenter Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for carpenter in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Carpenter in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,510 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of 60,510, Carpenters in Rhode Island earn 2% above the national median of $59,310. Rhode Island ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$60,510Hourly estimate
$29.092% above national median
Difference: +$1,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCarpenter Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Carpenter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 85,970 |
| #2 | Illinois | 76,410 |
| #3 | California | 74,820 |
| #4 | Washington | 73,260 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | 71,110 |
Nearby States Comparison
Carpenter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $60,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $71,110 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $63,510 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222828
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $70,160 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $106,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $63,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $73,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Carpenter in Rhode Island?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Carpenters in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Carpenters.
What education do you need to become a Carpenter in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Carpenter licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Carpenter salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Carpenters in Rhode Island is 60,510. Salaries range from $44,900 (10th percentile) to $92,050 (90th percentile).
How does the Carpenter salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Carpenters in Rhode Island earn 2% above the national median of $59,310, with a state median of 60,510.
How many Carpenters work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 2,870 Carpenters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Carpenter license to Rhode Island from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Carpenters in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.