RN Warehouse

Rhode Island nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

Rhode Island is a compact state (since January 2024). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in Rhode Island in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Rhode Island, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycle10
RN endorsement fee$135
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
Expires March 1 every other year (by odd/even license number); renewal due by Feb 15
Renewal fee
$135
Continuing education
10 contact hours per renewal cycle
Required CE topics
  • Substance abuse (2, within the 10)
  • Alzheimer's disease (1, once per career)
Endorsement fee
$135
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. 90-day temporary permit listed in RIDOH fee schedule ($135)
How to apply
Apply at healthri.mylicense.com (multistate if RI is primary residence); proof of residency; Nursys verification from every state licensed; national fingerprint background check via RI Attorney General/BCI.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Rhode Island from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education (RI Department of Health)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes Rhode Island's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@lawfrogrnesq.com.

Sources