Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Education • Office of Educator Quality and Certification
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$106,910 median (54% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 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 106,910, Social Workers in Rhode Island earn 54% above the national median of $69,480. Rhode Island ranks #3 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
$106,910Hourly estimate
$51.4054% above national median
Difference: +$37,430
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $106,910 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $94,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $68,510 | Degree required | State 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 | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Education • Office of Educator Quality and Certification
255 Westminster St, Providence, RI, 02903-3400
Phone: 4012224600
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 Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Social Worker licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Rhode Island is 106,910. Salaries range from $87,240 (10th percentile) to $124,780 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Rhode Island earn 54% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 106,910.
How many Social Workers work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 100 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Education / Office of Educator Quality and Certification. Review agency details at https://ride.ri.gov/teachers-administrators/educator-certification-0.