Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered 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 Registered 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: Work 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
$99,960 median (7% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 99,960, Registered Nurses in Rhode Island earn 7% above the national median of $93,600. Rhode Island ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$99,960Hourly estimate
$48.067% above national median
Difference: +$6,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#12 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $99,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $101,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $101,590 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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 Registered 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 Registered Nurses in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Rhode Island is 99,960. Salaries range from $72,090 (10th percentile) to $128,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Rhode Island earn 7% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 99,960.
How many Registered Nurses work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 10,760 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered 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 Registered Nurses in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.