Registered Nurse / Rhode Island
2026 data Rhode Island board official source

Rhode Island Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides patient care, administers medications, and coordinates with physicians. Requires NCLEX-RN exam.

What the Rhode Island data shows for Registered Nurses

To practice as a registered nurse in Rhode Island, the state licensing board requires 2,743 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-RN. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Rhode Island's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Budget $130 to get started, plus $130 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 4 weeks once your application is complete. Maintaining the license requires 10 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, registered nurses should know: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Rhode Island

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,743 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$205
Renewal Fee
$143
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$130
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$130
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
4 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
10 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Registered Nurse All Rhode Island licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Rhode Island licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island requires 2743 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-RN), and an initial fee of $205. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island licenses registered nurses who complete its requirements (2743 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Rhode Island licensing board.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Rhode Island from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for registered nurses: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Rhode Island licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Rhode Island require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Rhode Island does require a background check before issuing a registered nurse license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Rhode Island? ▼
To stay licensed as a registered nurse in Rhode Island, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $143.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Rhode Island? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Rhode Island is $130. The renewal fee is $130 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 4 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Rhode Island? ▼
In Rhode Island, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 4 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.