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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in Rhode Island

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in RI. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$175

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

NCLEX-PN

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Rhode Island.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training program in Rhode Island.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your RI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-PN.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Rhode Island licensing board and pay the $175 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in RI. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Rhode Island starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the RI licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the NCLEX-PN. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Rhode Island state board.

Requirements

To qualify for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensure in Rhode Island, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. RI mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the NCLEX-PN, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Rhode Island regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Rhode Island sets the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license application fee at $175. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in RI. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Rhode Island typically ranges from $175 to $375.

License Fee Calculator — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Rhode Island

Base License Fee$175
Estimated Total$175

Renewal Process

Rhode Island requires Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $100 in RI. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Rhode Island offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in RI

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Rhode Island requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Rhode Island takes professional licensing seriously, and the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) field is no exception. The state board in RI regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Rhode Island, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The RI licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Rhode Island Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize RI Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts RI Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts RI Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize RI Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.

Where to File Locally in Rhode Island

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Providence

1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI 02920

(401) 462-9500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Warwick

3275 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886

(401) 738-2000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Cranston

869 Park Ave, Cranston, RI 02910

(401) 461-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Pawtucket

137 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860

(401) 728-0500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Newport

43 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840

(401) 845-5300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Official Rhode Island Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Rhode Island state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.