Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurse 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
$77,940 median (25% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 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 77,940, Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island earn 25% above the national median of $62,340. Rhode Island ranks #2 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
$77,940Hourly estimate
$37.4725% above national median
Difference: +$15,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Licensed Practical Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 79,700 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 77,940 |
| #3 | Alaska | 77,670 |
| #4 | California | 77,170 |
| #5 | Oregon | 76,570 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Practical Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $77,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $76,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $69,130 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $81,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,060 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Practical Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island is 77,940. Salaries range from $62,540 (10th percentile) to $90,720 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island earn 25% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 77,940.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,080 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurses in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.