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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Arizona

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Arizona

There are multiple ways to apply for and obtain your nursing license in Arizona. The state provides RN licenses by examination as well as by endorsement. It is one of the few states in the country that also provides a walk-through process in which a registered nurse can be issued a temporary state nursing license valid until their permanent license is processed in as little as an hour.

This guide will provide everything you need to know about the requirements for getting your first nursing license in Arizona, as well as for getting an Arizona nursing license after already being licensed in another state. We’ll also explain how often your Arizona nursing license will need to be renewed, and what the continuing education requirements are for doing so.

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How to get your Arizona nursing license

Step 1: Education

Becoming a licensed registered nurse in the state of Arizona begins with earning your degree from a nursing program that has been approved by the state, or if you have graduated from an out-of-state-school you’ll need to have your transcripts, including your graduation date and type of degree sent to the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Students may have earned any of the following nursing degrees:

Any and all of these educational programs provide the education you need to earn a passing score on the NCLEX-RN exam.

Step 2: Apply

The registered nurse licensing process for the state of Arizona begins with registering an account on the Arizona State Board of Nursing’s Nurse Portal.  This will record your personal information and credentials,  establish your lawful presence or citizenship, and your education.

Step 3. Transcripts

If you attended nursing school in the state of Arizona, your school will provide a Certificate of Completion once you have graduated and applied for licensure. Graduates of accredited out-of-state nursing programs need to have transcripts noting graduation date and type of degree sent to the Arizona State Board of Nursing at:

Arizona State Board of Nursing
1740 W. Adams Street, Suite 2000
Phoenix, AZ  85007

Step 4: Citizenship/Nationality/Alien Status Documentation

A copy of documentation of citizenship, nationality, or alien status must be submitted with the application on an 8 ½” by 11″ sheet of plain paper. Acceptable documents can be found on the Citizenship and Alien Status page.

Step 5: Fingerprints

Applicants must submit a full set of fingerprints so that the Board of Nursing can conduct a state and federal criminal records check. The Arizona State Board of Nursing does not issue these cards. They must be obtained from a local facility that offers fingerprinting services.

Step 6. Take the NCLEX

Candidates for an Arizona registered nurse license must apply to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) test via Pearson VUE’s website or by calling 866-496-2539. Students who are approaching graduation should do this approximately one month before their graduation date. A $150 NCLEX-writing fee must be paid prior to the state confirming eligibility to take the test.

The NCLEX-RN exam can be scheduled at the applicant’s convenience, and the state of Arizona does not limit the number of times that a student needs to take the exam in order to pass.

How to renew your Arizona nursing license

Step 1. Submit renewal application

Arizona requires that registered nurses renew their licenses every four years. In order to renew your license you must meet one of the following four requirements:

  • Fulfilled 960 hours or more of nursing in the past five years
  • Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within the past five years
  • Completed an Arizona Board-approved refresher course in the past five years
  • Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years

To renew your Arizona registered nurse license, visit the Arizona Board of Nursing’s Nurse Portal, where they can submit all of the appropriate documentation, update their personal information, and pay the fees required for them to renew their license.  

Step 2. Fulfill continuing competency requirements

The state of Arizona does not require registered nurses to fulfill continuing education units. Nurses are able to meet any one of four competency requirements, including taking an approved refresher course. Nurses who have not practiced for 960 hours or more in the past five years, graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within the past five years, or obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years have the option of taking a state-approved refresher course.

Step 3. Submit your renewal application

Nurses renewing their Arizona registered nurse license can apply through the Nurse Portal and provide all of the required information demonstrating their eligibility. The renewal fee is $160.00, plus a $3.00 convenience fee. A late fee will be charged for each month that goes by after May 2nd of the renewal year, up to a maximum of $200.00

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Licensing fees

The cost of applying for a registered nurses license in the state of Arizona is $150.00.

Licensing fee by examination (first-time nurses)

  • NCLEX fee: $150
  • Licensing and Application fee: $150.00
  • Fingerprint fee: $50.00

Licensing fee by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

Arizona is a Compact state, which means that nurses holding a license from another Compact State do not need to apply for Arizona licensure unless they are declaring themselves Arizona residents. If you are going to become an Arizona resident and hold an active license with multi-state privileges from another compact state, you will be able to use that license until you have received a new Arizona license from the state.

Eligibility for a registered nurse license by endorsement requires completion of a Board-approved nursing program, a passing score on the NCLEX, having previously held or holding a nurse license in another U.S. state or territory, and having met one of the same practice requirements as is required for renewal of an Arizona nursing license. Those are:

  • Fulfilled 960 hours or more of nursing in the past five years
  • Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within the past five years
  • Completed an Arizona Board-approved refresher course in the past five years
  • Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years

The process requires completing the application process through the Nurse Portal and submitting payment, as well as requesting verification for endorsement. The fee for verification through NURSYS is $30 per verification sent.

You will also need to submit fingerprints to the Arizona Board of Nursing.

The fees for licensure for endorsement are:

  • Application fee – $150.00
  • Fingerprint fee – $50,00
  • Temporary license fee (optional) – $50

Licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Arizona whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Arizona from another state. For more information visit the Arizona licensing page.

Licensing fee by examination (first-time nurses)

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • Application fee: $100
  • Fingerprint processing fee: $50

Licensing fee by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

  • Application fee: $150
  • Temporary permit: $50
  • Fingerprint processing fee: $50
  • License verification: $30

License renewal fees

  • Application fee: $160 (every 4 years), plus $3 convenience fee
  • $50 late fee for each month after May 2nd of the renewal year, up to $200

Arizona is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.

Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN

No CEUs but there are renewal requirements:

  1. Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past 5 years OR
  2. Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past 5 years OR
  3. Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past 5 years OR
  4. Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past 5 years (i.e. LPN to RN, RN to BSN, masters, or doctorate).

APRN

No CEUs but there are renewal requirements.

APRNs are required to submit a separate application from their RN application to renew their APRN certificate. If you have an Arizona RN license, you must renew the RN first, then a link will appear to renew your Arizona APRN certificate.

APRN Renewal applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. Practiced as an advanced practice registered nurse for 960 hours or more in the past 5 years
  2. Hold an active Arizona RN OR current RN license with multistate privileges in another compact state.
  3. Hold active national certification. (Your certification will expire when your RN license expires)
  4. APRNs who hold an active DEA license, MUST have completed a minimum of three hours of opioid-related, substance use disorder-related or addiction-related continuing education

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Arizona State Board of Nursing accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.

How to Contact the Arizona Board of Nursing

Arizona State Board of Nursing
Phone: (602) 771-7800
Website: https://www.azbn.gov/
Address: 1740 W Adams Street, Suite 2000
Phoenix, AZ 85007

More Arizona Resources

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Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Florida

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Florida

There’s more to Florida than palm trees and sunshine. Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find great entertainment, a diverse population and culture, a robust economy, and no state income tax. Long known as a retirement haven, the Sunshine State is also a great place to live and work.

In this article, we cover:

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How to get your Florida nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

The first step to a career in nursing is earning your nursing degree. There are several ways of  being a registered nurse in Florida, as the state accepts candidates who have graduated from one of their Florida-approved or accredited nursing programs, as well as graduates of programs accredited by ACEN, CCNE, or the jurisdiction in which the school is based as long as it has been issued an NCLEX code by the National Council on State Boards of Nursing. This includes military nursing education programs and MSN programs.  

Step 2: Apply

Begin your application process by registering to take the NCLEX-RN exam and paying the $200.00 registration fee. You can also register and pay your fee by phone at 1-866-496-2539. 

You can submit your application with the $110 licensing fee to the Florida Board of Nursing online through the state’s MQA Online Services portal. The portal’s home page will allow you to create a New Applicant account. It is recommended that you use a desktop or laptop computer rather than a mobile device.   

Florida law requires that initial applications for a nursing license be reviewed within 30 days.

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

Most Florida-based nursing programs are approved to send the Board of Nursing either a list of eligible graduates or an official transcript upon graduation. All programs sending transcripts must include the date of graduation and degree conferred, and the school must send the information directly to the Board office through either a secure electronic service or by mail.

Electronic transcripts are accepted at [email protected].

Paper transcripts are accepted at:

Department of Health
Division of Medical Quality Assurance
Bureau of Health Care Practitioner Regulation, Board of Nursing
4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C-02
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3252

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

Applicants for initial licensure must use a Livescan service provider to have their fingerprints submitted electronically to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The results will be returned to the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse (Clearinghouse) and made available to the Florida Board of Nursing. 

Hard fingerprint cards are no longer accepted in Florida. All results must be submitted electronically from a Livescan service provider.

Use the correct Originating Agency Identification (ORI) when submitting fingerprints. The ORI for a registered nurse license application is EDOH4420Z. If you do not provide an ORI number or if you provide an incorrect ORI number to the service provider, the board office will not receive your fingerprint results.

Applicants who live outside of Florida must have their prints taken on a hard fingerprint card and contact an approved Livescan service provider who converts cards. You can use any FDLE-approved Livescan service provider to submit your fingerprints. Print out the Nursing Electronic Fingerprint Form, complete it, and take it with you to the Livescan provider. 

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once you have submitted your application, paid your licensing fee, and all required documentation has been received, the Florida Board of Nursing will notify Pearson VUEthat you have met all of its requirements.Pearson VUE will then send you an email containing your Authorization to Test for the NCLEX-RN exam. The authorization is valid for 90 days, so be sure to schedule your test as quickly as possible. 

The NCLEX exam is the last test you must pass to be licensed as a registered nurse. It is meant to ensure that you have learned and retained all of the information and training that you received during your nursing program, including the following topics.

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation 

If you pass the NCLEX, your license will be sent to the address on file 7-10 days after the board office receives notice that you’ve passed.

If you fail the exam, you can reapply by submitting a re-examination application with a retake fee of $50. You will also need to reapply with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee again. You must wait a minimum of 45 days between each attempt. After three failures, you must complete and pass a Florida Board of Nursing-approved remedial course before you will be approved for taking the exam a fourth time.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

Nurses who hold a valid license in another state can apply for Florida licensure using the Licensure by Endorsement process. Application starts by submitting an application and $110 fee to the Board of Nursing through the state’s MQA Online Services portal. The portal’s home page will allow you to create a New Applicant account. It is recommended that you use a desktop or laptop computer rather than a mobile device.   

Applicants must also submit:

  • Electronic fingerprint – Applicants for licensure by endorsement must use a Livescan service provider to have their fingerprints submitted electronically to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The results will be returned to the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse (Clearinghouse) and made available to the Florida Board of Nursing. 
    • Hard fingerprint cards are no longer accepted in Florida. All results must be submitted electronically from a Livescan service provider using the correct Originating Agency Identification (ORI) when submitting fingerprints. The ORI for a registered nurse license application is EDOH4420Z. If you do not provide an ORI number or if you provide an incorrect ORI number to the service provider, the board office will not receive your fingerprint results.
    • Applicants who live outside of Florida must have their prints taken on a hard fingerprint card and contact an approved Livescan service provider who converts cards. You can use any FDLE-approved Livescan service provider to submit your fingerprints. Print out the Nursing Electronic Fingerprint Form, complete it, and take it with you to the Livescan provider. 
  • License verification – You are responsible for requesting licensure verification from your original state of licensure. A licensure verification form is included in the application for states that do not verify licenses through the NURSYS system. If your state does participate with NURSYS, request that verification of your license be sent to the Florida Board of Nursing.

How to renew your Florida nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Florida requires renewal of your registered nursing license every two years. The Board of Nursing sends out renewal notices as postcards. Registered nursing licenses expire on April 30 and on July 31. 

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

All Florida-licensed registered nurses must complete 24 hours of nurse-related continuing education during each renewal period. 

The 24 hours must include:

  • 2 hours on Prevention of Medical Errors
  • 2 hours in Laws and Rules that govern the practice of Nursing
  • 2 hours in recognizing impairment in the workplace and every other biennium thereafter (every 4 years)
  • 2 hours on Human Trafficking
  • One-time, 1-hour HIV/AIDS CE requirement must be completed prior to the first renewal
  • Domestic Violence (DV) CE is now a 2-hour requirement every third renewal (every 6 years). Since Domestic Violence (DV) is a 2-hour requirement, the licensee will have 26 hours of CE during the renewal period when DV is taken.

The state requires continuing education units to be verified through an electronic tracking system at renewal. Continuing education credits can be reported at any time during the two years prior to the license’s expiration. Florida Board-approved providers will report your course completions on your behalf, while courses taken from national organizations must be completed by the applicant. 

Nurses who are within two years of having taken the NCLEX-RN exam are exempt from the CEU requirement.

To help you complete your biannual CEU requirement, Incredible Health offers free Florida CEU classes. Once completed, you can immediately access a certificate of completion. 

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

Nurses can renew their license at the state’s licensing portal. The fee is $75, and includes a $5 fee to fund efforts to combat unlicensed activity and a $5 fee that contributes to the state’s Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness program. You can pay online using a credit or debit card or print out a copy of your application that has been submitted online and then submit it with a cashier’s check or money order to:

Division of Medical Quality Assurance
P.O. Box 6320
Tallahassee, FL 32314-6320

Florida nursing licensing fees

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • Application fee: $110

Licensing fees by endorsement (nurses who already have RN licensure):

  • Application fee: $110
  • APRN dispensing license: $100
  • Fee for Livescan Service provider varies
  • Fee varies for License Verification

Nurses holding licenses from other states are eligible for licensure by endorsement if they have completed an approved or accredited nursing education program or if they have actively practiced nursing for two of the preceding three years without any criminal history or disciplinary action. Nurses who have not practiced in the previous five years need to take a remedial course prior to licensure.

Applicants need to submit an application with the appropriate fees to the Board of Nursing.

Schedule an electronic fingerprint appointment with a Livescan service provider.

Contact the licensing board where their initial and active licenses are held and request that verification be sent to the Florida Board of Nursing.

License renewal fees:

  • $75 if license has not expired
  • $130 if license has expired

Florida is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

For more information, visit the state licensing page.

*Fees are subject to change.

**Most states require a background check, but prices are not always listed.

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Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN/APRN: 24 hours every 2 years

As a nurse in Florida, you’ll need to complete the following continuing education requirements:

  • 2 hours for medical error/prevention
  • 2 hours on preventing human trafficking
  • 2 hours for Florida laws and rules
  • 2 hours on domestic violence every 3rd renewal
  • 2 hours on recognition of impairment in the workplace (every other renewal)
  • 1 hour one-time HIV/AIDS
  • 3 hours on safe and effective prescription of controlled substances, if a prescriber
  • 16 hours on general information

How to contact the Florida Board of Nursing

Florida Board of Nursing
Board office
Phone: (850) 245-4125
Fax: (850) 617-6460

Customer contact center:
(850) 488-0595

Mailing address:
Department of Health
Board of Nursing
4052 Bald Cypress Way Bin C-02
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3252

Applications and Fees ONLY:
Department of Health
Board of Nursing
PO Box 6330
Tallahassee, FL 32314-6330

More Florida Resources

At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

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6 Ways for Hospitals to Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Every October National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is celebrated throughout the country. The month is a great way to recognize employed individuals who have disabilities. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2021, 19.1% of persons with a disability were employed, up from 17.9% in 2020. Some of the increase can be traced back to COVID-19. 

There are many nurses with disabilities who are doing great work in the field. In this post, we will highlight the following:

  • The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
  • How hospitals and nurses can celebrate NDEAM in the workplace

The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month 

In 1945, the U.S. Congress introduced a law declaring the first week of October each year as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, Congress dropped the term “physically” to account for individuals with all kinds of disabilities, not just physical. 

In 1988, Congress included the whole month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. 

How hospitals and nurses can celebrate NDEAM

Hospitals and nurses can celebrate the month in many different ways. Some of the main ways suggested by the U.S. Department of Labor include: creating a display, training administration, creating an employee resource group, educating employees, featuring NDEAM in social media posts, and participating in disability mentoring day. 

Creating a display

One of the ways that a hospital can show support for National Disability Employment Awareness Month includes posting a display in break rooms or other areas frequented by nurses. These displays can consist of encouraging messages regarding the hospital’s commitment to a disability-inclusive workplace. Hospitals can put up this year’s NDEAM poster, which is available in English and Spanish. 

Training administration 

Administration plays a considerable role in developing an inclusive workplace for all employees. During NDEAM, try training the administrative team to make sure they comprehend how they can create a comprehensive workplace. 

Create an employee resource group

With employee resource groups, employees have an opportunity to receive support from others who have similar backgrounds or interests. At a hospital, there can be an employee resource group, particularly for people with disabilities. It’s an excellent way for employees to bond and share resources. 

Educate employees

As part of NDEAM, it’s essential to educate employees by offering disability training. There are many local disability organizations available to provide workplace training programs. 

Promote National Disability Employment Awareness Month in social media posts

A great way to spread awareness about NDEAM is to post about it across social media platforms. Hospitals that choose to post should use the hashtag #NDEAM. 

Participate in disability mentoring day

One of the more exciting ways that hospitals can celebrate NDEAM includes participating in disability mentoring day. Disability mentoring day allows for youth with disabilities to job shadow and participate in ongoing mentoring. Nationwide this month is celebrated on the third Wednesday of each October. The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) offers information to help implement a Disability Mentoring Day event.

Final Thoughts on National Disability Employment Awareness Month

NDEAM provides an excellent opportunity for nurses and hospitals to celebrate and promote people with disabilities in the workplace.

The nursing field has done a great job of actively recruiting people of all different backgrounds, but continued work needs to be done in employing people with disabilities. 

People with disabilities round out an organization and may help patients with disabilities feel more comfortable, as representation is essential. 

Demetrius was an Incredible Health contributor. He has worked as a freelance writer and content strategist. His work has appeared in outlets such as Java Magazine, Phoenix Magazine, and Nurse.org.

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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Wisconsin

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Wisconsin

Football lovers and cheese aficionados alike know that Wisconsin is a great place to live, work, and play. Six of Wisconsin’s towns ranked in Livability’s top 100 American cities to live, and the state has a low cost of living and high quality of life, a great educational system, and excellent health care facilities.

In this article, we will cover:

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How to get your Wisconsin nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

A good education is the foundation of any nursing career, and the key to becoming a licensed nurse in Wisconsin. The state publishes a list of approved in-state and out-of-state nursing schools along with the contact information for each one’s educational administrator, making it easy to reach out for transcripts and confirmation of completion of your program. The state accepts registered nursing candidates who have earned their nursing degree through both associate’s degree programs and baccalaureate programs.

Step 2: Apply

All candidates for a Wisconsin nursing license by examination should begin their application process by registering on the state’s licensing website. In addition to the initial registration fee of $73 ($57 if licensed between July 1 and December 31), applicants who graduated from in-state programs will need to submit their Statement of Graduation or Completion (DSPS Form #259) and those who graduated from out-of-state programs will need to submit their official transcripts. All candidates will also need to submit digital fingerprints once the Department of Safety and Professional Services has received your authorization for Release of FBI Information (Form #2687).

Temporary Permits are available for exam applicants once a completed application has been submitted and proof of graduation has been received. The temporary permit is valid for 90 days or until you receive notification of failing the NCLEX exam and allows you to work under a supervising registered nurse. To receive a temporary permit, submit Form #2434 along with the $10 fee through the LicensE portal.  

Applicants for licensure by examination also need to register to take the NCLEX exam and pay the $200 registration fee. This can be done through the PearsonVUE website. It is highly recommended that you register before your nursing program submits your statement of graduation or transcript.

Step 3: Submit Official Transcripts

The state of Wisconsin requires you to confirm that you have successfully completed your nursing education. If you graduated from a Board of Nursing-approved school located in Wisconsin, complete the top of the Statement of Graduation or Completion Form #259 and submit it to the nursing school from which you graduated. The school’s administration should complete the form and send it directly to the Department of Safety and Professional Services using the LicensE Third-Party Upload Portal at license.wi.gov.

If you graduated from a school located outside of Wisconsin, your official transcripts must be sent directly from your school to the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. Your transcript must contain your degree conferral date and should be emailed directly from the school to [email protected] or mailed to:

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
P.O. Box 8935
Madison, WI 53708-8935

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

In order to be licensed as a registered nurse in Wisconsin, you must  sign and submit the Authorization for Release of FBI Information (Form #2687) along with a photograph. After receipt of the authorization, you will receive information on how to obtain digital fingerprints.

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once the Wisconsin Board of Nursing has received your application and all supporting documentation, they will notify Pearson VUE of your eligibility to schedule and take the NCLEX exam. This test will ensure that you fully understand and have retained the material covered during your nursing education. The topics that are covered include: 

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation 

If you pass the NCLEX exam, you will be licensed as a Wisconsin nurse. If you do not pass the NCLEX exam, you must register with NCLEX and pay the $200 fee again. You also need to complete and submit the RN/LPN Retake Application for Licensure by Examination and pay the $15 fee. The application should be faxed to 608-251-3036 or sent by mail to:

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
P.O. Box 8935
Madison, WI 53708-8935

You cannot take the NCLEX until 45 days have passed since your last exam date.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

Nurses licensed in a state other than Wisconsin seeking licensure in the state must submit an application for licensure by endorsement. This should be submitted through the LicensE portal along with the $73 fee. 

In addition to the application, candidates must submit:

  1. Verification of Licensure in your original exam state and a current state if different through either the NURSYS system or, if the state does not participate with NURSYS, then by contacting the state board to request a verification of licensure be sent to Wisconsin. This must be sent directly to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services either by email at [email protected]

Or mailed to:

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
P.O. Box 8935
Madison, WI 53708-8935

  1. Fingerprints and Authorization for Release of FBI Information must be submitted. Sign and submit the Authorization for Release of FBI Information (Form #2687) along with a photograph. After the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services has received the authorization, you will be sent information on how to obtain digital fingerprints.

If you haven’t practiced nursing in the last 5 years you may be eligible for a limited license to allow you to complete a nursing refresher course. Upon completion of the course, you can petition the Board for full licensure.

How to renew your Wisconsin nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Wisconsin’s registered nurse licenses expire on February 28th of every year ending in an even number. 

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

Wisconsin does not require nurses renewing their licenses to complete any continuing education credits, but during the seven-to-eight week renewal cycle, Wisconsin nurses are required to complete the Nursing Workforce Survey. After the open renewal period, the survey is shortened and incorporated into the renewal questions.  

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

Wisconsin nurse license renewals are submitted via a different portal from the one used to apply for an initial license. Submit your renewal application here along with the $57 fee.

Wisconsin nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Wisconsin whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Wisconsin from another state. For more information visit the Wisconsin licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX exam fee: $200
  • Application fee: $72 (RN/LPN)

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

  • Application fee: $57 (RN/LPN)
  • Temporary permit: $10

License renewal fee:

  • Application fee: $57 (RN/LPN/APRN)

Additionally, Wisconsin is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.
**Most states require a background check, but prices are not always listed.

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Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN: None

APRN: 16 contact hours every 2 years in clinical pharmacology or therapeutics relevant to the advanced practice nurse prescriber’s area of practice, including at least 2 contact hours in responsible prescribing of controlled substances.

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Wisconsin Board of Nursing accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.  

How to contact the Wisconsin Board of Nursing

Wisconsin Board of Nursing
Phone: (608) 266-2112

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://dsps.wi.gov/pages/BoardsCouncils/Nursing/Default.aspx

Mailing address:
Board of Nursing
DSPS
PO Box 8366
Madison, WI 53708-8366

Physical address:
4822 Madison Yards Way
Madison, WI 53705

More Wisconsin Resources

Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

Read more from Andi

A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Washington State

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Washington State

Whether you’re finishing up your nursing education at one of Washington’s excellent schools or you’re thinking of moving to the state for its high salaries and excellent quality of life, you need to know how to get and keep your nursing license.

In this article, we will cover:

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How to get your Washington nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Your career as a registered nurse begins with earning your nursing degree from an accredited nursing school. You can apply for a Washington state license after completing a two-year Associate’s Degree in Nursing program or a baccalaureate degree ending in a BSN. Whether you studied in Washington state or elsewhere, getting a solid education from an accredited nursing program is the foundation to a successful, fulfilling nursing career.

Step 2: Apply

Washington uses a unique method of applying for a license online. To start, you must establish a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account. After this has been done, follow these steps:

  • Log in to your SAW account
  • Click “Add a New Service”
  • Click on “I would like to browse a list of services by agency”
  • Select Department of Health
  • Scroll to Online Application Portal and click Apply, then click OK

Once you have completed these steps, you will be returned to your SAW account page, where you will now see the Online Application Portal included in your list of services. You will apply for your nursing license from the portal. 

Note: Once you have submitted your application, you will have just 14 days to upload all required documents. Access will expire after 14 days and if you have any more documents to submit, you will need to email them to [email protected].

To complete your application for a registered nursing license you will need the following:

  • NCLEX-RN registration
  • Verification of Education
  • Official Transcripts
  • Application fee and online application

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

Washington state requires verification of your nursing education. 

If you are a graduate of a Washington-based nursing education program, your school will send an electronic certificate of completion (COC) to the Board of Nursing after you complete the program. There is no need to request this certification, but you will need to request that your official transcripts be sent after you have graduated.

If you are graduating from a nursing education program in another U.S. state you will need to have your official transcripts, with your type of degree and graduation date, sent to the Board. This documentation must be received to receive Approval to Test for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Your transcripts can be sent either via mail or electronically. If your school uses E-Script, Parchment, or Student Clearinghouse electronic transcript services, they can send your official transcripts to [email protected].

Paper transcripts reflecting your degree and graduation date can be sent to:

Attn: Licensing Unit
Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission
PO Box 47864
Olympia, WA 98504-7864

Step 4: Criminal Record Check 

The Washington State Department of Health conducts background checks on applicants from out of state and some applicants with a criminal history in Washington. The department will notify you if you need to undergo this background check. If so, you will need to pay $34.25 to have your fingerprints checked against the federal database. You will be required to arrange for and pay the cost of taking the fingerprints, which must be taken on the fingerprint card provided by the department. Fingerprint services can be obtained at local law enforcement offices.

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once you have finished your nursing education program, you should register and pay for the NCLEX-RN exam. You can do this online at www.pearsonvue.com/nclex or call 1-866-496-2539. Once you’ve registered and paid your $200 fee and you’ve completed and provided all of the state’s application requirements, you will receive an Authorization to Test from Pearson VUE.

Washington state residents can take the NCLEX at the following test locations:

The NCLEX-RN tests your knowledge of foundational nursing. Topics may include:

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation 

Washington nursing candidates are permitted to retake the NCLEX-RN up to eight times per year if they do not pass the exam.  You must let 45 days elapse between each examination and you must pass within three years of graduation.

Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

If you are licensed in a state other than Washington and want to work in the state as a nurse, you will need to apply for a license by endorsement. This will require:

  • Having verification of your initial license sent to Washington state via Nursys.com, or if your license is from a state that does not use Nursys, ask the state’s board to submit a form using the Non-Nursys verification form
  • Collecting all signed forms and having them ready to upload
  • Completing an online application
  • Paying the application fee online
  • Submitting your application

You may be notified that you are required to submit to a fingerprint-based federal background check.

After submitting your application, you will have just 14 days to upload supporting documents. After 14 days documentation can be emailed to [email protected].

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How to renew your Washington nursing license 

Step 1: Know when to submit your renewal application

Washington state requires registered nurses to renew their licenses annually by their birthday. You can renew your license online 85-90 days before your license expires or do a late renewal up to a year after your expiration date. If late, mail your renewal payment (check or money order) to: 

Department of Health
PO Box 1099
Olympia, WA
98504-7864

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

The Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission of the state of Washington recently reduced its education and active nursing practice hour requirements. To maintain their license, RNs must complete 8 continuing education hours and 96 practice hours every year. Documentation can be submitted via e-Notify registration at Nursys. Keep those records in case they are officially requested.

Washington state nurses can access free CE hours on Incredible Health’s website. Upon completion you can immediately download certification documents for your records.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

To renew your license online you will need: 

  • SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account
  • Department of Health (DOH) HSQA Online Services access
  • Assigned User ID and Password from your renewal notice

Add the DOH HSQA Online Services to your SAW account by logging into your SAW account, clicking “Add a New Service” and then “I have been given a code by an agency“. Type in the code: 7472 and click “Submit.”You will be returned to your SAW account page where you will see DOH HSQA Online Services provided by the Department of Health in your list of services. Click Access Now and log in. Once you are logged into the DOH HSQA Online Services you should see your credentials and renewals. Click on “Click here to renew an existing credential” and choose Registered Nurse. Complete the form and submit your fee.

Licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Washington whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Washington from another state. For more information visit the Washington licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • Application fee: $120 (RN); $85 (LPN)
  • Fingerprint fee: $49.25

Licensing fees by endorsement (nurses who already have RN licensure):

  • Application fee: $120 (RN); $85 (LPN); $125 (ARNP)
  • Fingerprint fee: $49.25

License renewal fees:

  • Application fee: $120 (RN); $85 (LPN); $125 (ARNP)

Starting December 1, 2022, nurse license application and renewal fees will increase.

  • LPN fees will increase $5
  • RN fees will increase $15
  • ARNP fees will increase $5

*Fees are subject to change.

Continuing education requirements

RN

8 CE hours and 96 active practice hours yearly

LPN

8 CE hours and 96 active practice hours yearly

APRN

Renewal period every two years:

  • 30 CE hours in specialty area
  • Additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required if nurse has prescriptive authority

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Washington State Department of Health Nursing Commission accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.

How to contact the Washington Board of Nursing

Washington State Department of Health Nursing Commission
Phone: (360) 236-4703

Mailing Address:
P.O. BOX 47864
Olympia, WA
98504-7864

Physical Address:
111 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA
98501

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/NursingCommission

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Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

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