Wisconsin Finalizing Work on New APRN License
Madison – Wisconsin will issue its first Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) credentials in September.
Each APRN license will also be designated with the recognized role (or roles) for which the applicant has been certified. The four recognized roles in Wisconsin are: Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
Governor Tony Evers signed 2025 Wisconsin Act 17, which creates a dedicated license for APRNs in Wisconsin and replaces the current APNP credential.
“The goal is to modernize Wisconsin’s nursing laws, bringing them in line with national standards and expanding access to healthcare across Wisconsin,” said Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) Secretary Dan Hereth.
DSPS administers the state’s Board of Nursing and has been working with the Board to draft rules and implement the processes necessary to issue the new licenses. The Board recently completed work on the emergency rules necessary for licensing to move forward. Those rules can be found here: dsps.wi.gov/Documents/RulesStatutes/N1to8EmR.pdf
The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) has received questions about what the changes mean for current RNs and APNPs. To help navigate the transition, DSPS has created an FAQ document, which will be updated as more information becomes available. You can find that FAQ document by going here on the DSPS website: APRN FAQ
Applications for the new APRN license open on August 3, and the first licenses will be issued on September 1. Current Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP) licenses will convert to an APRN license on September 1. However, those license holders must take steps to ensure their correct recognized role will be displayed on their new APRN license. Information on how to view, verify, or provide evidence of recognized role certification can be found in that FAQ document: APRN FAQ
About DSPS
DSPS issues more than 240 unique licenses, administers dozens of boards and councils that regulate professions, enforces state building codes, and maintains the Wisconsin Enhanced Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, which is a key tool in the multi-faceted public health campaign to stem excessive opioid prescribing. A fee-based agency, DSPS is self-sustaining and receives no general fund tax dollars for its day-to-day operations. With two offices and roughly 250 employees, DSPS collaborates with constituents and stakeholders across a wide range of industries to promote safety and advance the economy.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Wisconsin DSPS Announces Customer Service Upgrades
Jun 23rd, 2026 by Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional ServicesLatest modernization project improves efficiency for those calling the agency
Wisconsin Begins Offering Occupational Therapy Compact Privilege
May 29th, 2026 by Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional ServicesStep improves safety, access for Wisconsin citizens
