RN NLC Compact State

Wisconsin RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Wisconsin

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$325

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

None required

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

1 Education Requirements

Program Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Additional Requirements

Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Exam Fee

$200

Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

FBI fingerprint background check

FBI background check required

FBI authorization form required (fm2687.pdf)

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$57
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$325

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$73

Career Advancement

Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

Wisconsin RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Wisconsin?

Expect about $325 in total initial RN license costs in Wisconsin, including a $57 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing.

Does Wisconsin require continuing education for RN renewal?

No. Wisconsin does not require continuing education hours to renew an RN license. The renewal fee is $73.

Is Wisconsin a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

Yes. Wisconsin is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so eligible nurses with a multistate license can practice in Wisconsin and every other NLC state without extra licenses.

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 2 to 4 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in Wisconsin?

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