Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Wisconsin
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WI
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Wisconsin
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Wisconsin, candidates must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which typically takes 1-2 years. After graduation, applicants must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and the Wisconsin Nurse Jurisprudence exam. The application for licensure is submitted to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Board of Nursing, along with a fee of $73, and requires a criminal background check and fingerprinting. Wisconsin is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice without additional licensure unless establishing permanent residency in Wisconsin.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Wisconsin
| Detail | Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $73 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Must pass the Wisconsin Nurse Jurisprudence exam. No CE required for renewal. Requires a criminal background check and fingerprinting. Minimum age of 18. Must have completed at least two years of high school or its equivalent. Temporary permits are available for a $10 fee. |
Source: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Wisconsin
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Wisconsin is $61,040 per year, which is 2.1% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $50,560 |
| 25th | $55,310 |
| 50th (median) | $61,040 |
| 75th | $66,400 |
| 90th (experienced) | $74,880 |
Wisconsin employs approximately 6,830 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Wisconsin Worth It?
Factors to consider: Wisconsin's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.