LicenseCompass

Pilot, Ship License in Rhode Island

Quick Answer

The COS data for Rhode Island returned a Ship Pilot (maritime) license, not an aircraft pilot license. Aircraft pilot licensing is federal through the FAA with identical requirements across all states. There is no separate state pilot license for aircraft in Rhode Island.

Exam
State exam
Background Check
Required

Requirements

Pilot, Ship license in Rhode Island

gold
Education
No educational requirements
Exam
State exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Licensing Agency

RI Department of Environmental Management~State Pilotage Commission

Pilot, Ship Salary in Rhode Island

Entry Level

$64,990

Median

$101,330

Experienced

$239,200

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Pilot, Ship in Rhode Island.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    No educational requirements

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — State exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing times vary. Check with your state licensing board for current timelines.

Pilot, Ship Licensing in Rhode Island: What to Know

MISMATCH: The COS data returned 'Pilot, Ship' which is a maritime ship pilot license, NOT an aircraft pilot license. Ship pilots command ships into and out of harbors, estuaries, straits, sounds, and on rivers, lakes, and bays. They direct course and speed based on knowledge of local winds, weather, tides, and current. Aircraft pilot certification in Rhode Island is federal through the FAA with no separate state license required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exam do I need for a Pilot, Ship license in Rhode Island?
You need to pass the State exam. State exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Pilot, Ship requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.