Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Labor and Training • Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$69,480 median (17% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State 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 Labor and Training~Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $69,480, Firefighters in Rhode Island earn 17% above the national median of $59,530. Rhode Island ranks #12 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
$69,480Hourly estimate
$33.4017% above national median
Difference: +$9,950
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#12 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $69,480 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $73,110 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $77,660 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 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 | 54 | 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 | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Labor and Training • Professional Regulation
1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI, 02920
Phone: 4014628580
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $60,170 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $77,280 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $38,900 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter 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 Firefighters in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Firefighters.
What education do you need to become a Firefighter in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Firefighter licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Rhode Island is $69,480. Salaries range from $52,000 (10th percentile) to $89,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Rhode Island earn 17% above the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $69,480.
How many Firefighters work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,590 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Rhode Island from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Firefighters in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Labor and Training / Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://dlt.ri.gov/regulation-and-safety/professional-regulation.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.