Wisconsin Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide

Wisconsin is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.

License by Exam

To begin the licensure process, aspiring nurses must:

  1. Complete an approved nursing education program and pass the NCLEX.
  2. After passing the NCLEX exam, individuals must:
    • Submit an application for licensure to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.
    • Complete background checks and fingerprinting.
    • Pay licensing fees.
    • Wait for the Board’s decision on granting legal authority to practice as a licensed nurse.

It's important to note that if English is not your first language, proof of English proficiency may be required through exams such as TOEFL or IELTS.

License by Endorsement

To qualify for licensure by endorsement, you must:

  1. Have completed a nursing program that is approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing or an equivalent program in another state. You will need to provide proof of your education as part of the application process.
  2. You must hold a current and active license in good standing from another state.
  3. Apply for licensure by endorsement.
  4. Pay the application fee.
  5. Wait for approval, typically 4 weeks.

Getting a Temporary License

To be eligible for temporary licensure, applicants must:

  1. Submit a complete application for regular licensure along with all required documentation.
  2. In addition, they must meet specific requirements outlined by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing.

Once approved, temporary license holders can begin practicing as registered nurses or licensed practical nurses in Wisconsin.

Renewing your License

Wisconsin RN licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed biennially. They typically expire end of February in even-numbered years.

To renew your nursing license in Wisconsin:

  1. Submit an application through the DSPS Health & Business Renewal Application.
  2. Pay renewal fees.
  3. You are required to complete the mandatory Nursing Workforce Survey as part of your renewal. This is a statutory requirement and must be completed during the open renewal period or in the renewal questions if outside that window.
  4. You’ll need to indicate your state of primary residence in the renewal application.

There are currently no continuing education (CE) requirements specifically for RN license renewal in Wisconsin.

Contact Info

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services

Board of Nursing

4822 Madison Yards Way

Madison, WI 53705

(608) 266-2112

dsps@wisconsin.gov

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or professional advice. Wanderly strives to keep this information up to date but does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness as nursing licensure requirements, renewal cycles, fees, and continuing education obligations vary by state and are subject to change without notice. Nurses are strongly encouraged to visit their state's official nursing board website or contact the board directly to confirm current requirements prior to submitting any application.

 

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