Rhode Island Nursing License

Rhode Island is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. One multistate license covers Rhode Island — no separate application if your compact home state issued it.

How to get your Rhode Island nursing license

  1. Complete an approved nursing program (RN or LPN/LVN).
  2. Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN examination.
  3. Apply to the Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education for licensure by examination or endorsement.
  4. Complete the required criminal background check and pay licensure fees.
  5. If your primary residence is Rhode Island, you may apply for a multistate (compact) license.

Rhode Island licensing at a glance

Initial license fee$135
Renewal fee$135 / 2 years
Continuing education10 hours / 2 years
Compact (NLC) memberYes

Initial $135; biennial renewal $135. 10 CE contact hours are required per 2-year cycle, including 2 hours on substance abuse, plus a one-time 1-hour Alzheimer's/dementia course. Rhode Island rejoined the NLC effective January 1, 2024 — eNLC member.

Official resources

Rhode Island nursing license FAQ

Does my compact nursing license let me work in Rhode Island?
Yes. Rhode Island is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) member state, so a multistate license issued by your compact home state covers practice in Rhode Island without a separate application.
How much does a Rhode Island nursing license cost?
The initial RN licensure fee in Rhode Island is $135, and renewal is $135 / 2 years.
How many continuing-education hours does Rhode Island require?
Rhode Island requires 10 hours / 2 years for RN license renewal.
How do I verify a Rhode Island nursing license?
Verify any U.S. nursing license through Nursys, the national verification system operated by the state boards of nursing.