Certifications & licenses in Rhode Island
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in RI. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Rhode Island
Licensing landscape in Rhode Island
As of January 1, 2025, new applicants for a massage therapy license must complete 800 hours of education, an increase from the previous 650-hour requirement.
Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy
All levels of EMS practitioner licensure in Rhode Island require current certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) as of 2024.
Rhode Island Department of Health
To become a Journeyperson Electrician, Rhode Island requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience and 576 hours of classroom instruction over four years.
Department of Labor and Training
For many professions, including massage therapy and electricians, applicants must undergo a national criminal background check, which includes fingerprinting.
Rhode Island Department of Health
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Rhode Island
Household expenses in Rhode Island are 16% higher than the national average, with residents paying around $2,469 monthly for common bills.
Regional comparison: Rhode Island vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs RI |
|---|---|---|
| RI | $46,440 | — |
| CT | $44,790 | -4% vs RI |
| MA | $46,680 | +1% vs RI |
| State | Required training hours | vs RI |
|---|---|---|
| RI | 800 hours | — |
| CT | 750 hours | -50 hours |
| MA | 650 hours | -150 hours |
Healthcare in Rhode Island
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $46,440 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $50,150 |
| EMT | Required | $51,290 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $80,090 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $47,190 |
| Medical Coder | No | $63,960 |
| Paramedic | Required | $63,550 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $44,380 |
| Phlebotomist | Required | $46,380 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $85,330 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $100,640 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $86,900 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $74,130 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $86,910 |
Skilled Trades in Rhode Island
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $60,190 |
| Electrician | Required | $74,090 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $67,370 |
| Plumber | Required | $76,470 |
| Welder | Required | $50,580 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Rhode Island
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $45,640 |
| Barber | Required | $34,900 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $31,200 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $74,960 |
Professional & Business in Rhode Island
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $95,820 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $56,250 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $79,930 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $60,310 |