Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Public Safety
Police Officer Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for police officer in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Police Officer in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Business Regulation • Division of Commercial Licensing & Racing & Athletics
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,280 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Police Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to RI Department of Business Regulation~Division of Commercial Licensing & Racing & Athletics and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $77,280, Police Officers in Rhode Island earn 1% above the national median of $76,290. Rhode Island ranks #19 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
$77,280Hourly estimate
$37.151% above national median
Difference: +$990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPolice Officer Salary Ranking
#19 of 50 statesfor Police Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $115,400 |
| #2 | Washington | $102,640 |
| #3 | Illinois | $101,530 |
| #4 | Alaska | $100,300 |
| #5 | Colorado | $96,100 |
Nearby States Comparison
Police Officer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $77,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $78,610 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $82,820 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
RI Department of Business Regulation • Division of Commercial Licensing & Racing & Athletics
1511 Pontiac Ave, Building 69-1, Cranston, RI, 02920
Phone: 4014629525
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $60,170 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $69,480 | No educational requirements | 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 Police Officer 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 is the typical Police Officer salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Police Officers in Rhode Island is $77,280. Salaries range from $54,980 (10th percentile) to $89,070 (90th percentile).
How does the Police Officer salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Police Officers in Rhode Island earn 1% above the national median of $76,290, with a state median of $77,280.
How many Police Officers work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,780 Police Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Police Officer license to Rhode Island from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Police Officers in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Business Regulation / Division of Commercial Licensing & Racing & Athletics. Review agency details at https://dbr.ri.gov/commercial-licensing.
How often do you renew a Police Officer license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.