RN Warehouse

Wisconsin nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

Wisconsin is a compact state (since January 2018). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in Wisconsin in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Wisconsin, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycleNone set
RN endorsement fee$73
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
February 28/29 of even-numbered years
Renewal fee
$73
Continuing education
No set number of CE hours. The state may require other proof of competence (such as practice hours or a certification) or specific courses; check the board's renewal page.
Required CE topics
None found on the board's pages.
Endorsement fee
$73
Wisconsin charges one initial license fee; there is no separate endorsement fee
Fingerprints for endorsement
No
Temporary permit
Available. $10 temporary permit if licenses cannot be verified via Nursys; valid 3 months, renewable once
How to apply
Verify initial and current state licenses (Nursys preferred). WI multistate license requires WI primary residence (or intent to move) and FBI release (Form 2687). Renewal also requires Nursing Workforce Survey.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Wisconsin from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services, DSPS)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement
This page summarizes Wisconsin's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email [email protected].

Sources