RN License Renewal in Wisconsin (2026)

RN license renewal in Wisconsin is handled by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services), which requires Registered Nurse (RN)s to renew every 24 months. Below are the renewal deadline rule, continuing-education (CE) hours, fees, and a direct link to the official renewal page — last verified 2026-06-01. This is an unofficial guide; always confirm the details with the board before you file.

Wisconsin RN renewal at a glance

Renewal cycle	24 months
Deadline rule	Biennial, expiring February 28 (or 29) of even-numbered years per Wis. Stat. 440.08(2). A nurse first licensed shortly before that date must still renew by the statutory deadline.
CE hours required	None required
Renewal fee	$73.00
Online renewal	Yes
Governing body	Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services)

Go to the official Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services) renewal page →

Last verified 2026-06-01 from the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services). manual review of DSPS RN renewal page and official Renewal Dates & Fees schedule.

Continuing-education requirements for RNs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin does not require continuing education to renew an RN license. The only renewal conditions are paying the fee, completing the Nursing Workforce Survey, and reporting state of primary residency.

Need approved hours? Compare Wisconsin RN CE courses (some links are affiliate links).

How to renew your RN license in Wisconsin

Confirm your renewal deadline and current status on the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services) portal.
Submit the renewal application and pay the current fee online.
Keep proof of CE and your renewal confirmation for your records.

Good to know: Renewal is online through the DSPS LicensE portal; with the $25 late fee the total is $98. An expired license can be renewed within 5 years for the added late fee; after 5 years a separate application is required. Wisconsin is a Nurse Licensure Compact state.

RN license renewal in Wisconsin: frequently asked questions

How often do I renew my RN license in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin RN licenses renew every 24 months. Biennial, expiring February 28 (or 29) of even-numbered years per Wis. Stat. 440.08(2). A nurse first licensed shortly before that date must still renew by the statutory deadline.

How many CE hours are required to renew an RN license in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin does not require continuing-education hours to renew a standard RN license. Wisconsin does not require continuing education to renew an RN license. The only renewal conditions are paying the fee, completing the Nursing Workforce Survey, and reporting state of primary residency. Confirm the current rule with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services).

Can I renew my Wisconsin RN license online?

Yes — Wisconsin offers online renewal through the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services). Use the official link on this page.

What happens if I let my Wisconsin RN license expire?

Practicing on an expired license is generally prohibited and can carry penalties. A late fee of about $25 may apply. Contact the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (Department of Safety and Professional Services) promptly if your license has lapsed.

Renew the same license in another state

All states: Registered Nurse (RN) renewal