Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,070 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of 86,070, Registered Nurses in Wisconsin earn 8% below the national median of $93,600. Wisconsin ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$86,070Hourly estimate
$41.388% below national median
Difference: -$7,530
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#25 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $86,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $100,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $86,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $85,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
1400 E. Washington Ave., P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI, 53708-8935
Phone: 6082662112
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,380 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,890 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $63,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,000 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Wisconsin?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Registered Nurses in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Wisconsin is 86,070. Salaries range from $74,970 (10th percentile) to $109,270 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Wisconsin earn 8% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 86,070.
How many Registered Nurses work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 64,960 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Department of Safety and Professional Services / Division of Professional Credential Processing. Review agency details at https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Default.aspx.