Teacher (Secondary) License in Rhode Island
Quick Answer
To become a certified teacher in Rhode Island, you must complete required coursework and meet the Department of Education's requirements. Certificates are available in various specialties including reading, music, art, and secondary subjects. Estimated costs are approximately $375 (excluding degree).
- Exam
- Praxis Exams
- Total Cost
- $375 (est.)
- Timeline
- 4-5 years (including degree)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 5 years
Requirements
Teacher (Secondary) license in Rhode Island
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $25
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $25
- Total Estimated Cost
- $375
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Teacher (Secondary) license in Rhode Island. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Rhode Island licensing board.
Teacher (Secondary) Salary in Rhode Island
Entry Level
$48,600
Median
$86,900
Experienced
$97,880
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Teacher (Secondary) in Rhode Island.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
No exam required — Praxis Exams
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$25.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-5 years (including degree).
Teacher (Secondary) Licensing in Rhode Island: What to Know
Rhode Island licenses teachers at secondary and other levels. Specific coursework is required but no exam is listed in COS. Certificates are issued in certain specialties including reading, music, art, and secondary subjects. Elementary teachers work K-8 in many subjects; secondary teachers instruct in specific subjects. The RI Department of Education, Office of Educator Quality and Certification handles licensing. Rhode Island's compact size means teachers can easily work in different communities across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Teacher (Secondary) license cost in Rhode Island?
- The estimated total cost is $375, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Teacher (Secondary) license in Rhode Island?
- The process typically takes 4-5 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Teacher (Secondary) license in Rhode Island?
- You need to pass the Praxis Exams. No exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Teacher (Secondary) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.