Rhode Island RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Rhode Island

NLC Compact State
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$325
Renewal Period
2 years
CE Hours Required
10 hours / 2 years

1 Education Requirements

Minimum Degree

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Requirements

  • Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
  • Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
  • Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Passing Standard

Pass/Fail (Adaptive)

Tip: Register for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

FBI and state fingerprint background check
FBI and Rhode Island background check
Fingerprinting required for all applicants

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $75
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $50
Total $325

Total includes application ($75), NCLEX ($200), and fingerprinting ($50). Rhode Island rejoined the NLC on January 1, 2024.

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $75

Continuing Education Requirements

10
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle

Required Topics

  • • General Nursing CE: 8 hours
  • • Substance Abuse: 2 hours

State Board of Nursing

Official Name
Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education
Phone
(401) 222-5960

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NLC Compact Member

Rhode Island is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. With a multistate license, you can practice in multiple states.

Learn about NLC benefits →

Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team

Based on 3 official sources Last verified: January 2025