Wyoming Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
Wyoming is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.
License by Exam
To begin the licensure process, aspiring nurses must:
- Complete an approved nursing education program: This can be either a diploma, associate degree, or bachelor's degree program. Once the educational requirements are met, applicants need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN), depending on their desired level of practice.
- Submit their application: After passing the NCLEX exam, individuals must submit their application for licensure to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. The application includes providing personal information, educational background details, and any previous disciplinary actions taken against them. It is important to ensure all required documents are submitted accurately and within the specified timeframe.
- Pay applicable fees: Current fees are approximately $190 for Registered Nurses (RNs) and $110 for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This fee covers the cost of processing your application and conducting background checks.
Once the board reviews and approves an individual's application they will issue a nursing license in Wyoming. This license grants nurses legal authority to practice within the state and allows them access to various job opportunities.
License by Endorsement
Licensure by endorsement is a process that allows nurses who hold an active license in another state to obtain a nursing license in Wyoming without having to retake the licensing exam. This can be particularly beneficial for experienced nurses who are looking to relocate or start working in Wyoming.
To apply for licensure by endorsement in Wyoming:
- Provide proof of graduating from an accredited Nursing program.
- Complete online application.
- Submit all necessary documentation (license verification, copies of current license, and transcripts from nursing education program).
- Pay all applicable fees.
Getting a Temporary License
If you need to work while your nursing license is being processed or you are unable to complete the entire licensing process due to a temporary situation, you may be eligible for a temporary nursing license.
To qualify for a temporary nursing license in Wyoming, you must:
- Complete an online application.
- Pay the required fee.
- Provide documentation of your qualifications.
- Meet any other requirements set by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
You will not be able to practice while your application is being processed, but you will be able to work while your license is being evaluated.
Renewing your License
The Wyoming State Board of Nursing requires all nurses to renew their licenses every two years. Licenses expire December 31st of the renewal year.
To renew your license, you will need to:
- Complete an online application.
- Pay the required fee. The renewal fee for RNs and LPNs is currently $100 every two years.
- Wyoming does not require mandatory continuing education (CE) for all license holders every cycle, but competency must be demonstrated if you haven’t actively practiced.
- You may meet continuing competency by:
- 400 hours of active nursing practice in the last 2 years, OR
- 200 hours of practice plus 15 CE hours, OR
- 30 CE hours (if practice hours are low).
- CE hours can include accredited courses, workshops, seminars, etc.
- You may meet continuing competency by:
Contact Info
Wyoming State Board of Nursing
130 Hobbs Ave. Suite B, Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7601
(307) 777-5281
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.
