REGISTERED NURSE License in Wisconsin
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Wisconsin, you must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. Wisconsin is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $375. CE is required for biennial renewal.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $375 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
REGISTERED NURSE registration in Wisconsin
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $75
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $54
- Total Estimated Cost
- $375
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your REGISTERED NURSE license in Wisconsin. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Wisconsin licensing board.
REGISTERED NURSE Salary in Wisconsin
Entry Level
$74,970
Median
$86,070
Experienced
$109,270
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed REGISTERED NURSE in Wisconsin.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$75.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
REGISTERED NURSE Licensing in Wisconsin: What to Know
Wisconsin requires a degree, NCLEX-RN, CE for renewal, and describes professional nursing as requiring 'substantial nursing skills' and 'specialized knowledge and scientific application.' No blanket criminal record prohibitions exist. Wisconsin is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The WI Department of Safety and Professional Services oversees nursing licensure. Milwaukee's major health systems (Froedtert, Advocate Aurora) and the UW Health system in Madison are the primary employers. Wisconsin's dairy and farming communities in northern and western regions face nursing shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a REGISTERED NURSE license cost in Wisconsin?
- The estimated total cost is $375, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a REGISTERED NURSE license in Wisconsin?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a REGISTERED NURSE license in Wisconsin?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare REGISTERED NURSE requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.