Wisconsin Registered Nurse (RN) Continuing Education Requirements
Requirements Overview
Wisconsin is one of the few states that imposes no continuing education requirement on registered nurses for license renewal. The biennial process is purely administrative: pay the $57 fee, complete the Nursing Workforce Survey, and report your state of primary residency. Licenses expire February 28 of even-numbered years.
This CE-free status applies specifically to RNs. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Wisconsin must complete 16 contact hours every 2 years, including 2 hours on responsible prescribing of controlled substances. If you advance from RN to APRN, be aware that CE requirements will apply at that credential level.
Despite no state mandate, most Wisconsin healthcare employers require their nursing staff to complete ongoing education as a condition of employment. These employer requirements vary by facility and are entirely separate from state licensure.
Provider Requirements
Not applicable. Wisconsin does not require CE for RN license renewal.
Tips for Wisconsin RNs
- No state CE requirement doesn't mean no CE at all. Most Wisconsin hospitals and health systems mandate annual training — check your employer's policies.
- Mark your calendar for the February 28 renewal deadline in even-numbered years. Missing it can result in practicing on an expired license.
- If you're considering advancing to APRN, know that Wisconsin APRNs must complete 16 CE hours per cycle including 2 hours on controlled substance prescribing.