Rhode Island Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Rhode Island
Autonomous CNS practice; RI 216-RICR-40-05-3 defines CNS as an APRN who independently provides care, with independent practice meaning no formal collaborative agreement with a physician (R.I. Gen. Laws Ch. 5-37).
Prescriptive Authority: Full independent authority
1 Education Requirements
Degree Required
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program Requirements
- Complete accredited Clinical Nurse Specialist program
- Hold active RN license in the state
- Clinical hours as specified by program
2 National Certification
Certification Body
ANCC or AACN
Required
Yes
American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
3 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $145 |
| Total | $135 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $135 |
Continuing Education Requirements
2 substance abuse; 1 hr Alzheimer's one-time
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Rhode Island, you must first hold an active RN license. Rhode Island is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.
State Board of Nursing
Free Tools
Other APRN Types in Rhode Island
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 3 official sources • Last verified: June 2026