Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Education
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Continuing education and program notes
- Certificates are issued to qualified applicants in certain specialties, including reading, music, art, and secondary school subjects
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
$77,930 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to RI Department of Education~Office of Educator Quality and Certification and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $77,930, Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Rhode Island earn 24% above the national median of $63,000. Rhode Island ranks #7 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
$77,930Hourly estimate
$37.4724% above national median
Difference: +$14,930
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSpecial Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Salary Ranking
#7 of 50 statesfor Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $90,530 |
| #2 | Washington | $85,340 |
| #3 | Connecticut | $81,220 |
| #4 | New York | $80,750 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $78,820 |
Nearby States Comparison
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $77,930 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $78,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $81,220 | Varies by state board | 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 | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Massachusetts | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $98,960 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $101,800 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $100,370 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $79,430 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School 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 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Rhode Island is $77,930. Salaries range from $59,110 (10th percentile) to $95,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Rhode Island earn 24% above the national median of $63,000, with a state median of $77,930.
How many Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,210 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School 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 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools 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.
How often do you renew a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.