Wisconsin Nursing License & Board of Nursing Guide

Timing

The BON does not commit to a timeframe for permanent licensure.

The BON does not commit to a timeframe for temporary licensure.

Submit an application online in the LicensE portal and pay the fee. The process is the same for RNs and LPNs. You can view RN information on the Wisconsin DSPS RN page and LPN information on the Wisconsin DSPS LPN page.
Click through to the DSPS info sheet (PDF) for a checklist of requirements for both RNs and LPNs.
Request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and the state where you are currently employed. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the Wisconsin BON.
Submit Form 2687 with a photograph, allowing the Wisconsin BON to perform a background check.
Complete a background check with fingerprints. You will receive instructions for completing fingerprinting after the department has received a signed copy ofForm 2687.

Once all items have been received by the BON except license verification from a non-Nursys participating state, you may be issued a provisional license.
If you would like a temporary permit, be sure to fill out this form in addition to your application.

Endorsement Application: $57.00

Temporary permit: $10.00

Your application is valid for 12 months. If incomplete after 12 months have passed, your application will be discarded, and you must reapply and repay the application fee.
Click through to the DSPS LicensE FAQ guide (PDF) for the Wisconsin online application system FAQs.

Renewal cadence: RN licenses expire on 2/28 or 2/29 of even-numbered years. LPN licenses expire on 4/30 of odd-numbered years. You will receive your renewal information 3 months prior to that date. ‍
Renewal fee: $57 if renewed on time. Late renewals will incur an additional fee of $25.‍
Required contact hours: No contact hours are required to renew for both RNs and LPNs.