Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Environmental Scientist in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Clinical Laboratory Science Practitioners include health care professionals who perform such tests and/or are engaged in management, education, consulting, or research.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- 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
$90,460 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to RI Department of Health~Health Professions Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $90,460, Environmental Scientists in Rhode Island earn 13% above the national median of $80,060. Rhode Island ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$90,460Hourly estimate
$43.4913% above national median
Difference: +$10,400
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor Environmental Scientist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $97,520 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $96,330 |
| #3 | Oregon | $93,560 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | $90,460 |
| #5 | Illinois | $89,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Environmental Scientist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $90,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $96,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $81,370 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $43,390 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $49,720 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $49,490 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Forester | $70,660 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist in Rhode Island?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Environmental Scientists in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Environmental Scientists.
What education do you need to become a Environmental Scientist in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Environmental Scientist licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Environmental Scientist salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in Rhode Island is $90,460. Salaries range from $66,690 (10th percentile) to $131,720 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in Rhode Island earn 13% above the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $90,460.
How many Environmental Scientists work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 370 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist 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 Environmental Scientists in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.
How often do you renew a Environmental Scientist license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.