Rhode Island Nurse Licensing Guide

Permanent License

The BON does not comment on a timeframe for permanent licensure.

1. Submit an application online and pay the fee. The process is the same for RNs and LPNs. You can view a list of the requirements in Rhode Island's application requirements (PDF).
2. Provide proof of Rhode Island Residency - A copy of your driver's license, tax return, or housing lease that displays a primary address in Rhode Island. (Please note that proof of residency is only required if your primary residence will be in Rhode Island.)
3. Provide a background check with fingerprints. Instructions for fingerprinting can be found on the Rhode Island BCI background check page.
4. Official transcripts are not required for those applying by endorsement.
5. Request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and all other states where you have held a license, active or inactive. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the Rhode Island BON via the Verification of Licensure form.

Endorsement Application: RNs: $135.00, LPNs: $45.00

• Official transcripts are not required if you are applying for licensure by endorsement.
• Documents provided can either be emailed to michele.monroe@health.ri.gov or mailed to:
  - Department of Health Three Capitol Hill – Room 103 Providence, RI 02908-5097

• Applicants can check the status of their application at any point by logging in to their applicant portal.
• View the Rhode Island BON’s FAQ section on the Rhode Island DOH licensing page.
• You may be eligible for expedited licensure if you have military status. If you are active military duty, a military veteran with an honorable discharge, the spouse of someone on active military duty, or the spouse of a reservist, you can submit a copy of one of the following: Leave Earning Statement (LES), Letter from Command, Copy of Orders or DD-214 showing honorable discharge.

• Renewal cadence: Every 2 years. Renewal cadence is the same for RNs and LPNs.
• Renewal fee: RN: $135.00, LPN, $45.00
• Required contact hours: 10 contact hours per 2-year renewal period.
  - 2 hours of CEUs must be related to substance abuse
  - Every nurse has to complete one hour (per career) of CEU training regarding Alzheimer’s disease.

• A six-month extension for the continuing education requirement may be granted by the Board if the nurse has suffered a hardship.
• Renewal notices are sent out 60 days before the expiration date.