NP Advanced Practice

Wisconsin Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$82

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

reduced

Official source: licensing in Wisconsin is administered by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Wisconsin.

Apply on Official Site

Reduced Practice

Reduced practice authority with some limitations

Prescriptive Authority: Currently requires collaborative agreement; APRN Modernization Act (2025 Wisconsin Act 17) effective September 1, 2026 will allow independent practice

Wisconsin Uses "APNP" Terminology

Wisconsin uses the term Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP) instead of Nurse Practitioner. APNP encompasses all advanced practice nurses with prescriptive authority including NPs, CNMs, CNSs, and CRNAs. When searching for jobs or licenses in Wisconsin, use 'APNP' along with 'Nurse Practitioner'.

APNP Includes:

Nurse Practitioner (NP)Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Tips for Job Searching:

Search job boards using 'APNP' and 'Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber'
Wisconsin license verification uses APNP terminology
National certifications (ANCC, AANPCB) are still required
APNP is Wisconsin-specific; other states use NP or APRN

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC or AANPCB

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$57
Total	$82

Uses APNP (Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber) terminology

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$82

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

2 controlled substance required

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin, you must first hold an active RN license. Wisconsin is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Wisconsin RN Requirements

Wisconsin NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Wisconsin?

Expect about $82 in total initial NP license costs in Wisconsin, including a $57 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do NPs need to renew in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin NPs must complete 16 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $73.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Wisconsin?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Board of Nursing handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 608-266-2112.