Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
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
$86,900 median (39% 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 86,900, K-12 Teachers in Rhode Island earn 39% above the national median of $62,340. 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
$86,900Hourly estimate
$41.7839% above national median
Difference: +$24,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 99,110 |
| #2 | California | 98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | New York | 82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $86,900 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $83,260 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $78,740 | Specific course required | No 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $72,820 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $71,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teachers in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Rhode Island is 86,900. Salaries range from $48,600 (10th percentile) to $97,880 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Rhode Island earn 39% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 86,900.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 4,080 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teachers 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.