Path for Out-of-State Certified Nursing Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for certified nursing assistant licensing in Wisconsin. Plan on endorsement through Wisconsin DHS.
CNAs certified in another state can often apply via endorsement (reciprocity) by providing registry verification from their home state.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Wisconsin.
- Fingerprinting: The board does not publish a separate fingerprint requirement for this path.
- License verification: Wisconsin requires verification of your current out-of-state license before your file is complete.
- Compact status: No active compact route here. Plan on endorsement.
- Temporary license: The board lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
Wisconsin Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Wisconsin.
-
Step 1
Start the Wisconsin application
Apply through the Wisconsin DHS. The application fee is $25.
-
Step 2
Send verification of your current license
Wisconsin requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.
-
Step 3
Send Proof of Training
Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
-
Step 4
Send State Competency Exam Results
Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
-
Step 5
Wait for board processing
Plan on about 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. Wisconsin also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
-
Step 6
Complete Training Program
Complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 75-120 hours).
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $25
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- N/A
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $25
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $25
Temporary License
Wisconsin offers a temporary or provisional license so you can start working while your full endorsement application is processing.
- Fee
- See board
- Duration
- See board
- Processing time
- See board
Required Documents
- Proof of Training: Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
- State Competency Exam Results: Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
Board Contact
- Board
- Wisconsin DHS
- Department
- State Health Department
- Phone
- (608) 266-2112
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is N/A. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant Licensing FAQ
How much does Wisconsin CNA endorsement cost?
The endorsement application fee is $25. Additional costs may include background check fees.
Is a background check required?
No, fingerprints are generally not required for CNA endorsement in Wisconsin.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Wisconsin?
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in Wisconsin while waiting?
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.