Becoming an LPN in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is working to improve the health standard and availability of service for all people while preserving the integrity of their healthcare providers. As part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, or NLC, Wisconsin allows nurses from other NLC states to practice in the state without additional licensure. A rise in demand for nurses is being felt across the state, and a prediction from the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 5% increase in licensed practical nurse (LPN) jobs per year in Wisconsin by 2024.

Wisconsin LPN Licensing Requirements

Wisconsin requires LPN applicants to complete a state-approved nursing program as well as pass the required NCLEX-PN exam.

While waiting for exam results, the graduate can apply for a temporary permit that is good for 90 days. If the graduate fails the exam, the permit is voided immediately. If the exam is passed a notarized application for licensure can be submitted along with the graduate’s official transcripts and certification of graduation.

Wisconsin Licensed Practical Nurse Application Forms:
http://165.189.64.111/Default.aspx?Page=ffd1f27a-42f8-417b-af1a-8675a0b169d5

The day-to-day demands of an LPN can be physically taxing—endurance and strength are necessary but may not be required during the application process.

Wisconsin is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact which allows nurses to work in multiple states that are in the compact area without additional licensing. The LPN does, however, have to register a primary state of residence. LPNs working outside of the compact area will need to apply for licensure if wanting to practice in the state of Wisconsin—they must apply by endorsement. He or she will have to show proof of current licensure and graduation from a state-approved nursing program. Other requirements include:

• Licensed in a state that is equivalent to Wisconsin.
• Passed NCLEX.
• Has no disciplinary action or terminated from any employment related to nursing in another state for reasons of negligence.

Wisconsin allows foreign applicants with LPN equivalents to apply for licensure in the state, but he or she must submit approval from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) after they have evaluated the official transcripts and completed a full course-by-course review. They must also prove their English proficiency via testing.

Wisconsin LPN licenses April 30^th of each odd-numbered year.

Learn more about Wisconsin LPN Jobs & Employment Outlook.

LPN Salary in Wisconsin By Area

The table below lists career information retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for licensed practical nurses in Wisconsin. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.

For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our Wisconsin LPN to RN/BSN programs page.