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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Registered Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to RI Department of Health~Health Professions Regulation and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $101,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $101,590 | Degree required | Third-party 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse 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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.