How to Transfer Your Nursing License to Rhode Island
Moving to Rhode Island — or accepting a travel nursing assignment here — means you'll need a Rhode Island nursing license. Unlike many other states, Rhode Island has not joined the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means your multi-state compact license does not cover you here. You need a Rhode Island license, full stop.
The good news: the endorsement process is straightforward if you follow each step in order and submit complete documents. This guide walks you through exactly what to do in 2026.
Who Needs to Transfer a Nursing License to Rhode Island?
You need to complete this process if you are:
- A nurse relocating to Rhode Island from another state
- A travel nurse accepting a Rhode Island assignment
- A nurse currently licensed in a Compact state who thinks their compact license covers RI — it does not
- An out-of-state nurse taking a per-diem or agency shift in Rhode Island
- An APRN, NP, or CNS moving to RI (additional licensure steps apply — verify with RIDOH)
Rhode Island License by Endorsement: Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $135 |
| License verification | Nursys (most states) or direct BON-to-BON form |
| Background check | Fingerprinting required |
| Original license | Must be current and in good standing |
| Transcripts | NOT required for endorsement (only for initial RI licensure) |
| Processing time | Varies — several weeks is typical |
Step-by-Step: The Rhode Island Nursing License Endorsement Process
Step 1: Confirm Your Current License Is Active and in Good Standing
Before you do anything else, make sure your original state license is current, unrestricted, and in good standing. Rhode Island will not endorse a license with any pending disciplinary actions, expired status, or encumbrances.
Log into your current state's nursing board portal and verify your license status before submitting.
Step 2: Submit Your Application and Pay the $135 Fee
Go to the Rhode Island Department of Health applicant portal (health.ri.gov) and complete the online application for Registered Nurse Licensure by Endorsement (or LPN, as applicable).
Pay the non-refundable $135 application fee by credit card through the portal. Save your confirmation number.
Step 3: Request License Verification Through Nursys
Rhode Island uses Nursys (nursys.com) for license verification from participating states. You'll need to:
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Log into Nursys.com
Request that your original state send your license verification directly to the Rhode Island Board of Nursing
Pay Nursys's verification fee (typically $30 per state)
If your state does NOT participate in Nursys: Contact that state's Board of Nursing directly and request that they send a Verification of Licensure form to:
Or email: michele.monroe@health.ri.gov
Important: If you've held a nursing license (active or inactive) in more than one state, you must request verification from ALL of those states — not just your most recent one.
Step 4: Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check
Rhode Island requires fingerprinting and a criminal background check for all nursing endorsement applicants. Instructions for completing fingerprinting will be provided through the applicant portal after your application is submitted.
Allow extra time for this step — fingerprinting appointments can have a wait, and results take additional processing time.
Tip: Schedule your fingerprinting appointment as soon as your application is submitted. Do not wait until the other documents are complete — fingerprint results often take the longest.
Step 5: Track Your Application Status Online
Rhode Island's applicant portal allows you to check your license status online. Check it periodically rather than calling — most status questions can be answered through the portal.
If you have a specific question or missing document issue, email michele.monroe@health.ri.gov directly.
How Long Does Rhode Island License Endorsement Take?
Processing times are not guaranteed and can vary significantly. In general:
- Typical timeline: 4–8 weeks after all documents are received
- Fastest path: Submit everything simultaneously — application + Nursys verification + fingerprints started the same week
- Common delays: Missing Nursys verification from a prior state license, fingerprint results, or incomplete application
Travel nurses on a tight assignment start date should start this process at least 8 weeks before their assignment begins.
Common Mistakes That Delay Rhode Island Nursing License Endorsement
1. Forgetting a prior state license
If you were ever licensed in another state — even a license you let lapse years ago — Rhode Island requires verification from that state too. Missing even one causes a delay.
2. Assuming your Compact license covers Rhode Island
It does not. Rhode Island is not a member of the NLC. This is the #1 mistake travel nurses make.
3. Submitting Nursys verification before submitting your RI application
Nursys needs your RI application on file to match the verification. Submit your RI application first, then request Nursys verification.
4. Waiting on fingerprinting
Schedule it the same day you submit your application. Do not delay.
5. Emailing documents instead of using the portal
Most documents should be submitted through the portal. Only use email for specific questions directed to the BON.
Where to Send Documents
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Online portal | health.ri.gov (preferred for application and status checks) |
| michele.monroe@health.ri.gov (for specific BON correspondence) | |
| RI Department of Health, Three Capitol Hill — Room 103, Providence, RI 02908-5097 |
Nurses Moving from Compact States
If you currently hold a license in a Compact state, you are used to having multi-state privileges. Those privileges stop at the Rhode Island border. Once you establish Rhode Island as your primary state of residence, you will also need to update your compact state license — consult your current state's BON about what happens to your compact privileges when you move.
For travel nurses who maintain a compact home state while working in RI: you still need the RI endorsement license for the duration of your Rhode Island assignment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a Rhode Island nursing license by endorsement?
$135 application fee plus Nursys verification fees (~$30 per state). Budget $165–$200 total.
Can I work in Rhode Island while my endorsement is pending?
Generally, no — you need a valid RI license before practicing. Some temporary work authorizations exist for certain situations; confirm with RIDOH before assuming you can work during the processing period.
Does Rhode Island have a temporary practice permit?
Verify current availability directly at health.ri.gov — temporary permits, if offered, are time-limited and not guaranteed.
I'm an APRN moving to Rhode Island. Is the process different?
Yes. APRNs need additional RIDOH certification beyond the RN endorsement. Verify current APRN requirements at health.ri.gov.
Bottom Line
Rhode Island's endorsement process is manageable if you start early, submit everything simultaneously, and don't assume your out-of-state license covers you here. The biggest risk is running out of time — so begin this process at least 8 weeks before you need your license active.
Once you're licensed, use our Rhode Island RN License Renewal Checklist to track your CE requirements and make sure your renewal never catches you off guard.
Note: Licensing requirements, fees, and processes may change. Always verify current requirements directly with the Rhode Island Board of Nursing at health.ri.gov before submitting your application. This article is for informational purposes only.