Andi Tailleart

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Washington State

Whether you’re finishing up your nursing education at one of Washington’s excellent schools or you’re thinking of moving to the state for its high salaries and excellent quality of life, you need to know how to get and keep your nursing license.

In this article, we will cover:

• How to get your Washington nursing license
• How to get your nursing license by endorsement
• How to renew your nursing license
• Licensing fees
• Continuing education requirements
• How to contact the Washington Board of Nursing

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How to get your Washington nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Your career as a registered nurse begins with earning your nursing degree from an accredited nursing school. You can apply for a Washington state license after completing a two-year Associate’s Degree in Nursing program or a baccalaureate degree ending in a BSN. Whether you studied in Washington state or elsewhere, getting a solid education from an accredited nursing program is the foundation to a successful, fulfilling nursing career.

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 
• Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing for those who have achieved a bachelor’s degree and who take the additional classes necessary to become a registered nurse.

Step 2: Apply

Washington uses a unique method of applying for a license online. To start, you must establish a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account. After this has been done, follow these steps:

• Log in to your SAW account
• Click “Add a New Service”
• Click on “I would like to browse a list of services by agency”
• Select Department of Health
• Scroll to Online Application Portal and click Apply, then click OK

Once you have completed these steps, you will be returned to your SAW account page, where you will now see the Online Application Portal included in your list of services. You will apply for your nursing license from the portal. 

Note: Once you have submitted your application, you will have just 14 days to upload all required documents. Access will expire after 14 days and if you have any more documents to submit, you will need to email them to [email protected].

To complete your application for a registered nursing license you will need the following:

• NCLEX-RN registration
• Verification of Education
• Official Transcripts
• Application fee and online application

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

Washington state requires verification of your nursing education. 

If you are a graduate of a Washington-based nursing education program, your school will send an electronic certificate of completion (COC) to the Board of Nursing after you complete the program. There is no need to request this certification, but you will need to request that your official transcripts be sent after you have graduated.

If you are graduating from a nursing education program in another U.S. state you will need to have your official transcripts, with your type of degree and graduation date, sent to the Board. This documentation must be received to receive Approval to Test for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Your transcripts can be sent either via mail or electronically. If your school uses E-Script, Parchment, or Student Clearinghouse electronic transcript services, they can send your official transcripts to [email protected].

Paper transcripts reflecting your degree and graduation date can be sent to:

Attn: Licensing Unit
Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission
PO Box 47864
Olympia, WA 98504-7864

Step 4: Criminal Record Check 

The Washington State Department of Health conducts background checks on applicants from out of state and some applicants with a criminal history in Washington. The department will notify you if you need to undergo this background check. If so, you will need to pay $34.25 to have your fingerprints checked against the federal database. You will be required to arrange for and pay the cost of taking the fingerprints, which must be taken on the fingerprint card provided by the department. Fingerprint services can be obtained at local law enforcement offices.

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once you have finished your nursing education program, you should register and pay for the NCLEX-RN exam. You can do this online at www.pearsonvue.com/nclex or call 1-866-496-2539. Once you’ve registered and paid your $200 fee and you’ve completed and provided all of the state’s application requirements, you will receive an Authorization to Test from Pearson VUE.

Washington state residents can take the NCLEX at the following test locations:

• Pearson Professional Centers-Renton (Seattle) WA
• Pearson Professional Centers-Seattle (Northgate)
• Pearson Professional Centers-Seattle WA
• Pearson Professional Centers-Yakima WA
• Pearson Professional Centers-Spokane WA

The NCLEX-RN tests your knowledge of foundational nursing. Topics may include:

• Safe and Effective Care Environment
• Management of Care  
• Safety and Infection Control 
• Health Promotion and Maintenance 
• Psychosocial Integrity 
• Physiological Integrity 
• Basic Care and Comfort 
• Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
• Physiological Adaptation 

Washington nursing candidates are permitted to retake the NCLEX-RN up to eight times per year if they do not pass the exam.  You must let 45 days elapse between each examination and you must pass within three years of graduation.

Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

If you are licensed in a state other than Washington and want to work in the state as a nurse, you will need to apply for a license by endorsement. This will require:

• Having verification of your initial license sent to Washington state via Nursys.com, or if your license is from a state that does not use Nursys, ask the state’s board to submit a form using the Non-Nursys verification form
• Collecting all signed forms and having them ready to upload
• Completing an online application
• Paying the application fee online
• Submitting your application

You may be notified that you are required to submit to a fingerprint-based federal background check.

After submitting your application, you will have just 14 days to upload supporting documents. After 14 days documentation can be emailed to [email protected].

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How to renew your Washington nursing license 

Step 1: Know when to submit your renewal application

Washington state requires registered nurses to renew their licenses annually by their birthday. You can renew your license online 85-90 days before your license expires or do a late renewal up to a year after your expiration date. If late, mail your renewal payment (check or money order) to: 

Department of Health
PO Box 1099
Olympia, WA
98504-7864

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

The Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission of the state of Washington recently reduced its education and active nursing practice hour requirements. To maintain their license, RNs must complete 8 continuing education hours and 96 practice hours every year. Documentation can be submitted via e-Notify registration at Nursys. Keep those records in case they are officially requested.

Washington state nurses can access free CE hours on Incredible Health’s website. Upon completion you can immediately download certification documents for your records.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

To renew your license online you will need: 

• SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account
• Department of Health (DOH) HSQA Online Services access
• Assigned User ID and Password from your renewal notice

Add the DOH HSQA Online Services to your SAW account by logging into your SAW account, clicking “Add a New Service” and then “I have been given a code by an agency“. Type in the code: 7472 and click “Submit.”You will be returned to your SAW account page where you will see DOH HSQA Online Services provided by the Department of Health in your list of services. Click Access Now and log in. Once you are logged into the DOH HSQA Online Services you should see your credentials and renewals. Click on “Click here to renew an existing credential” and choose Registered Nurse. Complete the form and submit your fee.

Licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Washington whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Washington from another state. For more information visit the Washington licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

• NCLEX fee: $200
• Application fee: $120 (RN); $85 (LPN)
• Fingerprint fee: $49.25

Licensing fees by endorsement (nurses who already have RN licensure):

• Application fee: $120 (RN); $85 (LPN); $125 (ARNP)
• Fingerprint fee: $49.25

License renewal fees:

• Application fee: $120 (RN); $85 (LPN); $125 (ARNP)

Starting December 1, 2022, nurse license application and renewal fees will increase.

• LPN fees will increase $5
• RN fees will increase $15
• ARNP fees will increase $5

*Fees are subject to change.

Continuing education requirements

RN

8 CE hours and 96 active practice hours yearly

LPN

8 CE hours and 96 active practice hours yearly

APRN

Renewal period every two years:

• 30 CE hours in specialty area
• Additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required if nurse has prescriptive authority

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Washington State Department of Health Nursing Commission accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.

How to contact the Washington Board of Nursing

Washington State Department of Health Nursing Commission
Phone: (360) 236-4703

Mailing Address:
P.O. BOX 47864
Olympia, WA
98504-7864

Physical Address:
111 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA
98501

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/NursingCommission

Registered nurses working in Utah enjoy tremendous career opportunities in a state with a thriving economy. The abundant natural beauty and wide open spaces invite outdoor activities and healthy living that has led to some of the lowest rates of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure in the nation.

In this article, we will cover:

• How to get your Utah nursing license by exam
• How to get your license by endorsement
• How to renew your Utah nursing license
• Licensing fees
• Continuing education requirements
• How to contact the Utah Board of Nursing

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How to get your Utah nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Maybe you want to start your career as soon as possible, so you chose a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing program. Maybe you wanted the full college experience and attended a four-year bachelor’s program. Whatever type of nursing degree you’ve earned, it’s the first step in your path to qualifying to take the NCLEX exam and getting your Utah nursing license.  

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 
• Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing for those who have achieved a bachelor’s degree and who take the additional classes necessary to become a registered nurse.

Step 2: Take the NCLEX 

Utah asks nurse candidates to register for the NCLEX exam before applying for licensure, and only after passing the test can you apply for your license.

To start, create an NCLEX account at Pearson VUE and pay the $200 testing fee. It is important that when you sign on you select the program code that matches the type of nursing degree you earned. 

After registering for the exam, log on to the Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing’s website and submit an Authorization to Test application, found under the Exam Information tab. You can apply online or use a manual form, which must be sent with official transcripts to [email protected] or by mail to:

Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing

Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Heber M. Wells Building
160 East 300 South
P.O. Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741

Official transcripts must be submitted at the same time as the request for authorization to test application.

The NCLEX will test your knowledge of the foundational information you were taught during your nursing program, including:

• Safe and Effective Care Environment
• Management of Care  
• Safety and Infection Control 
• Health Promotion and Maintenance 
• Psychosocial Integrity 
• Physiological Integrity 
• Basic Care and Comfort 
• Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
• Physiological Adaptation  

Step 3: Submit Transcripts and Request for Authorization to Test

After registering for the exam, log on to the Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing’s website and submit an Authorization to Test application, found under the Exam Information tab. You can apply online or use a manual form, which must be sent with official transcripts to [email protected] or by mail to:

Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing

Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Heber M. Wells Building
160 East 300 South
P.O. Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741

Official transcripts must be submitted at the same time as the request for authorization to test application. Transcripts must have the school seal, a date of graduation, and the degree that you earned. In addition to submitting them to the email address listed above, transcripts can be sent via a 3^rd party clearinghouse to [email protected] by your school’s registrar. 

Step 4: Apply for Licensure

If you’ve passed the NCLEX, your next step is to apply for your initial registered nurse license. If you did not pass, you will be sent a candidate report detailing the results of your exam results. You can then pay the $200 examination fee again, email the Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing at [email protected] to request being made eligible for the exam again, and retake the examination in 45 days. 

The application for licensure can be found online here. It can also be printed out and mailed in. The fee is $90.00

Step 5: Fingerprints

The state of Utah also requires that you submit fingerprints to complete the application process. You must have an application on file or be prepared to submit your application at the time of your appointment. 

Local applicants can make an appointment here to have their prints taken at the Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing office at 160 E. 300 S. Salt Lake City. You will need valid government identification. 

Candidates who cannot have their fingerprints taken at the Salt Lake City office must include two completed blue fingerprint cards (Form FD-258) with their application. 

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

If you are a registered nurse who has already passed the NCLEX and is licensed in another state, switching your license to Utah requires following the licensure by endorsement process. 

To qualify for licensure by endorsement, you must have held the equivalent licensure in the state you are moving from for at least one year and your license must be active and in good standing. 

You must:

1. Submit a complete application for licensure, including fingerprints and the appropriate fees.
   1. To go through the fingerprint process, you must have an application on file or be prepared to submit your application at the time of your appointment. 
   2. Local applicants can make an appointment here to have their prints taken at the Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing office at 160 E. 300 S. Salt Lake City. You will need valid government identification. 
   3. Candidates who cannot have their fingerprints taken at the Salt Lake City office must include two completed blue fingerprint cards (Form FD-258) with their application. 
2. You will be asked to submit official verification of your license. This can be submitted via the NURSYS program if you are coming from a Nursys participating state. If your state does not participate with NURSYS, you must request verification from the state board of nursing and have it sent directly to the State of Utah at this address:

Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Heber M. Wells Building
160 East 300 South
P.O. Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741

How to renew your Utah nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Utah’s registered nurse licenses expire every two years on January 31 of years ending in odd numbers. At least 60 days before your license expires, the Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing will mail you a renewal notice. 

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

To renew your Utah nursing license, you must either practice for at least 400 hours or practice for at least 200 hours and complete 15 hours of approved continuing education. You can also choose to complete 30 hours of approved continuing education. 

You must also complete at least one of the following online suicide prevention trainings, which do count towards your required CE credits.

• Suicide prevention (0.5 credit)
• Supporting patients (0.5 credit)
• Collaborative safety planning (0.5 credit)
• CALM-UTAH (Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (1 credit))

Incredible Health is here to help you meet your continuing competency requirements. We offer free Utah CEUs that are easy to access, as well as immediate certification of completion.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

To submit your renewal application, visit this page and mark off the two indicators that you have completed the state’s renewal requirements. Only when you have confirmed both your practice hour/continuing education requirement and your suicide prevention requirement will you be permitted to proceed with the application.

Utah nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Utah whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Utah from another state. For more information visit the Utah licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

• NCLEX exam fee: $200
• Application fee: $60 (LPN/RN) $100 (APRN)
• Fingerprint processing fee: $10
• Criminal background check fee: $20

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

• Application fee: $60 (RN/LPN); $100 (APRN)
• Fingerprint processing fee: $10
• Criminal background check fee: $20

License renewal fees:

• Application fee: $68 (RN/LPN); $78 (APRN)

Additionally, Utah is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.

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Continuing education requirements

RN: Renewal period is every 2 years
Choose one of the following options:

• 15 hours of continuing education related to nursing and 200 of practice hours; or
• 30 hours of continuing education; or
• 400 hours of licensed practice

LPN: Renewal period is every 2 years
Choose one of the following options:

• 15 hours of continuing education related to nursing and 200 of practice hours; or
• 30 hours of continuing education; or
• 400 hours of licensed practice

APRN: Renewal period is every 2 years

• Must maintain national certification: and
• Must be currently certified in specialty area; or
• 30 hours of CEUs and 400 hours of practice each year; and
• APRNs with prescriptive authority are required an additional 3.5 hours in controlled substances prescribing, plus .5 hours from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing online tutorial

How to contact the Utah Board of Nursing

Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Phone: (801) 530-6628
Fax: (801) 530-6511

Website: https://dopl.utah.gov/nurse/index.html

Heber M. Wells Bldg., 4th Floor, 160
East 300 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84111

More Utah Resources

• Best hospitals in the state
• Best nursing schools in the state
• Average salary for RNs in the state

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / South Dakota

If you are a registered nurse (or are thinking of becoming one), and you have a desire for the stunning landscapes of South Dakota, read on to find all the information you need. Here, you’ll learn about licensing info, continuing education requirements, job & salary outlook, top hospitals, and nursing associations. Let us help you find your dream job!

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In this article, we will cover:

• Licensing information
• Steps for renewing a South Dakota nursing license
• Continuing education requirements
• Job & salary outlook for nurses in South Dakota
• Top hospitals in South Dakota
• Nursing organizations & associations in South Dakota
• Basic steps for licensing and certification
• Contact information

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Licensing information

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in South Dakota whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to South Dakota from another state. For more information visit the South Dakota licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

• NCLEX exam fee: $200
• Application fee: $100 (RN/LPN/CNP)

Licensing fee by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

• Application fees: $100 (RN/LPN/CNP)
• Temporary permit: $25

License renewal fees:

• Application fee: $115 (RN/LPN); $95 (CNP)

South Dakota is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.
**Most states require a background check, but prices are not always listed.

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Steps for renewing a South Dakota nursing license

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Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN: None
South Dakota does have a minimum practice requirement: 

• provide verification of employment in nursing for a minimum of 140 hours in any 12-month period during the previous 6 years, or a total accumulation of 480 hours during the previous 6 years

APRN: Maintain national certification

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Job and salary outlook for nurses in South Dakota

Due to the shortage of nurses, these healthcare professionals are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates the profession will grow by 6% between 2021 and 2031. The national average salary is $82,750.

We can also help you check out salary estimates to help determine if South Dakota is the right state for you.

[ MORE: Average nurse salary in South Dakota ]

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Top hospitals in South Dakota

If you’re not already picking up the phone to call movers, maybe this list of the best hospitals in South Dakota will sway you in the right direction. Here are the top hospitals according to U.S. News and World Report:

• Sanford USD Medical Center – Sioux Falls, SD: This hospital is a member of the Magnet Recognition Program^® and is rated high performing in 3 adult specialties and 14 procedures and conditions. Some specialties include:
  • Gastroenterology & GI Surgery
  • Orthopedics
  • Pulmonology & Lung Surgery

• Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center – Sioux Falls, SD: This hospital is a member of the Magnet Recognition Program^® and is nationally ranked in 1 adult specialty and rated high performing in 2 adult specialties and 7 procedures and conditions. Some specialties include:
  • Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (#48 in the nation)
  • Cancer
  • Gastroenterology & GI Surgery

*Magnet status – Awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and is considered the “gold standard” for excellence in nursing practice and care. Hospitals must meet certain criteria and apply to be designated.

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Nursing organizations and associations in South Dakota

Once you become a registered nurse (or even if you’re in the process), joining a nursing organization or association will give you access to networking, job opportunities, and a wealth of information shared between fellow nurses. Here are a few of the organizations and associations for nurses in South Dakota:

South Dakota Nurses Association: “The South Dakota Nurses Association speaks with a unified voice to support professional nursing through advocacy, communication, networking and collaboration across nursing specialties. The Registered Nurse is an advocate of access to quality, cost effective care while upholding standards of excellence for the profession.”

South Dakota School Nurse Association: “The mission of the South Dakota School Nurses Association (SDSNA) is to promote and advance the need, value, and importance of nursing and health services in the educational environment.”

South Dakota Student Nurses Association: “Participating in NSNA prepares you for involvement in professional associations when you graduate, as well as for participation in shared governance organizations in the workplace.  It is comprised of students who are preparing for their RN Licensure.  South Dakota Student Nurses Association provides educational opportunities for student nurses through leadership, education, scholarship, legislature, and career networking.”

Check out the comprehensive list of national organizations as well.

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Basic steps for licensing and certification

Step 1: Education

Attend an accredited nursing school to earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An ADN will take between 18 and 24 months to complete, while you can expect to spend roughly four years to earn a BSN. If you already have an ADN, there is an ADN to BSN bridge program that allows you to earn a BSN in 12-18 months. There is also an RN to BSN bridge which takes three semesters of nursing courses to be completed in one year. These programs will save you time and money. The more education you have, the better your chances of landing your dream job. 

Step 2: Licensing

When you are six weeks away from graduation, you can apply to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. There are 75 to 265 questions on the NCLEX-RN with a five-hour time limit for completion. If you do not pass the NCLEX-RN on your first attempt, you must wait 45 days before you can try again.

The NCLEX includes questions on the following topics to test nursing candidates’ knowledge:

1. Safe and effective care environment
2. Health promotion and maintenance
3. Psychosocial integrity
4. Physiological integrity

Step 3: Experience

This step in the process is to gain hands-on experience. This will provide you with invaluable opportunities to work with patients making you attractive to future employers.

Step 4: Certification

The final step is to obtain certifications for your chosen career. Requirements for earning a certification vary so it is important to check with the governing body for information. Incredible Health offers free courses in order to obtain or renew certification requirements. Create a free account to access professional development mandates and get instant certificates.

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Contact information

South Dakota Board of Nursing
Phone: (605) 362-2760

Website: https://doh.sd.gov/boards/nursing/

4305 S. Louis Avenue
Suite 201
Sioux Falls, SD 57106-3115

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Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it’s big on beautiful beaches, top quality education, and affordable housing. The state enjoys all four seasons and is home to some of the nation’s most famous festivals and highly respected colleges.

In this article, we will cover:

• How to get your Rhode Island nursing license by exam
• How to get your license by endorsement
• How to renew your Rhode Island nursing license
• Licensing fees
• Continuing education requirements
• How to contact the Rhode Island Board of Nursing

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How to get your Rhode Island nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

The entire time you were pursuing your nursing degree, you were working towards this moment: the time when you’d be ready to apply for your nursing license. Whether you attended school in Rhode Island or in another state, the education you received is the key to your future career.

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) 
• Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing for those who have achieved a bachelor’s degree and who take the additional classes necessary to become a registered nurse.

Step 2: Apply

The state of Rhode Island uses an online license application process. Applicants for a registered nurse license by examination begin by registering and creating a user ID and password on the State Department of Health’s online services page, then proceeding to complete the application and paying the $135 registered nurse application fee. You will be able to submit most documents via email to [email protected] or mail them to:

Department of Health
Three Capitol Hill – Room 103
Providence, RI 02908-5097

The requirements for licensure are: proof of Rhode Island residency in the form of a driver’s license, tax return, or lease containing a Rhode Island address; official transcripts; background check with fingerprints.

You will also need to register to take the NCLEX exam, which you can do at this website or by phone at 866-263-9600. There is a $200 registration fee.

Step 3: Submit Official Transcripts

Rhode Island does not accept e-transcripts. Applicants must have official transcripts sent directly from their school of nursing to the Department of Health, and transcripts must include graduation date and degree conferred. Ask your school to send your transcripts to:

Department of Health
Three Capitol Hill – Room 103
Providence, RI 02908-5097

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

Your criminal background check will be conducted by the Rhode Island Department of Attorney General. To arrange for this check, you will need to print out the fingerprint form found on this page under the National Background Check tab and bring it in to the Customer Service Center at:

4 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920. 

The fee is $35.

Out-of-state applicants can download the forms found on the same page and submit with fingerprints to the Office of the Attorney General. This process includes printing out and completing a fingerprint form, signing a release/disclaimer form and having it notarized, and sending it along with the BCI Certification of Fingerprints form that has been completed by the agency that fingerprinted you. You will also need to submit a copy of a valid form of photo identification and a check for $35.00. Mail the packet to:

Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General
Attn: Fingerprint Department
4 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once all of your materials have been submitted to the Department of Health in support of your application, notification will be sent to Pearson VUE of your eligibility and they will email you an Authorization to Test. Taking and passing the NCLEX exam is the final step for licensure. The test reviews the most important material that you covered during your nursing education to ensure that you have learned it and retained it. Topics include: 

• Safe and Effective Care Environment
• Management of Care  
• Safety and Infection Control 
• Health Promotion and Maintenance 
• Psychosocial Integrity 
• Physiological Integrity 
• Basic Care and Comfort 
• Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
• Physiological Adaptation 

Once you have completed the application process and all supporting material has been submitted and approved, the Rhode Island Board of Nursing will notify Pearson VUE that you are eligible to take the exam and you will receive an Authorization to Test via email. 

Passing the NCLEX will lead to the state issuing you a license card. If you do not pass the NCLEX you can retake the test. Doing so requires reregistering with Pearson VUE and paying the $200 fee. You can take the test at any time once 45 days have passed since your last exam date.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

Registered nurses who are licensed in another state and who wish to become licensed in Rhode Island must apply for licensure by endorsement. The requirements include:

• Proof of Rhode Island residency in the form of a copy of your driver’s license, tax return, or lease, which must indicate a Rhode Island address.
• Background check with fingerprints conducted by the Rhode Island Department of Attorney General. To arrange for this, print out the fingerprint form found on this page under the National Background Check tab and bring the completed form with a $35 fee to the Customer Service Center at:
  
  4 Howard Avenue
  Cranston, RI 02920
  
  • If you are out of state, download the forms found on the same page and submit your fingerprints to the Office of the Attorney General. This process includes printing out and completing a fingerprint form, signing a release/disclaimer form and having it notarized, and sending it along with the BCI Certification of Fingerprints form that has been completed by the agency that fingerprinted you. You will also need to submit a copy of a valid form of photo identification and a check for $35. Mail the packet to:        

Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General
Attn: Fingerprint Department
4 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920

• License verification. If the state where you held a license participates with the NURSYS process then submit a request for verification to be sent to Rhode Island’s Department of Health. Nurses holding licenses at non-NURSYS-participating states need to print out an Interstate Verification form, complete it, and request that the licensing authority in your state use it to verify your license. This form should be sent to:

Department of Health
Three Capitol Hill – Room 103
Providence, RI 02908-5097

How to renew your Rhode Island nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Rhode Island’s nursing licenses are renewed every two years. The fee is $135 and renewal notices are sent out 60 days before the expiration date. 

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

Renewal of your Rhode Island registered nursing license requires completion of 10 continuing education hours during every two-year licensing cycle. Of the 10 hours, 2 must be about substance abuse. Additionally, every nurse must complete one hour during their career of CEU training regarding Alzheimer’s disease.

Nurses in Rhode Island can earn free continuing education units on Incredible Health’s website. Once you’ve taken a course, you can immediately access a certificate of course completion for your records. 

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

Registered nursing license renewals are processed on the state’s website.

Rhode Island nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Rhode Island whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Rhode Island from another state. For more information visit the Rhode Island licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

• NCLEX exam fee: $200
• Application fee: $135 (RN); $45 (LPN)
• National criminal background check fee: $35

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

• Application fee: $135 (RN); $45 (LPN); $145 (APRN)
• APRN: CSR registration: $200
• Temporary permit: $135 (RN); $45 (LPN); $145 (APRN)
• National criminal background check fee: $35

License renewal fees:

• Application fee: $135 (RN); $45 (LPN); $145 (APRN); $80 (APRN, no Rx authority)

Rhode Island legislation is pending for becoming a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses. Check the NCSBN site to stay updated.

*Fees are subject to change.

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Continuing education requirements

RN: 10 contact hours every 2 years (2 hours must be in substance abuse)

LPN: 10 contact hours every 2 years (2 hours must be in substance abuse)

APRN: 10 contact hours every 2 years (2 hours must be in substance abuse; maintain national certification)

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education accepts courses that are ANCC accredited. 

How to contact the Rhode Island Board of Nursing

Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education
Phone: (401) 222-5700
or (401) 222-5960
Fax: (401) 222-3352

Website: https://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=231

Department of Health
3 Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908

More Rhode Island Resources

• Best hospitals in the state
• Best nursing schools in the state
• Average salary for RNs in the state