Is Wisconsin a compact state for nursing? Yes, which means that earning RN licensure in the state allows you to practice in 43 U.S. jurisdictions without re-applying for licensure in each state. See how Marquette DE-MSN can help you on the path to a compact nursing license and career success.
If you are exploring a nursing career, you might first focus on choosing the right program, completing the necessary prerequisites, and preparing for the academic and logistical demands of earning a nursing degree. Since you are just beginning your nursing journey, licensure might seem like something to worry about later.
Looking into the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is important when researching programs since attaining a multistate license, or compact license, in a participating jurisdiction means you can practice in other NLC jurisdictions without needing to secure individual licenses in each participating state. Is Wisconsin a compact state? Yes. Wisconsin’s participation in the NLC can make your nursing career much more flexible if you earn a multistate license in the state and are a resident.
Marquette University’s Second Degree Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offers two program site locations in Wisconsin: Pleasant Prairie and the main Milwaukee campus. Our program lets you leverage your non-nursing bachelor’s degree to earn an MSN in five or eight semesters. Explore how earning a multistate nursing license from an NLC state can make a significant difference in your career.
What It Means to Be a Compact State for Nurses
What is a compact state nursing license? In the U.S., nursing licensure is regulated at the state level. Each state has its own board of nursing, practice laws, and licensure requirements. Traditionally, this meant that a registered nurse (RN) licensed in one state could only practice in that state. If they wanted to work elsewhere, they had to apply for and maintain additional licenses. This is where the Nurse Licensure Compact makes a difference.
Students who reside in a compact state and pass the NCLEX-RN, the test necessary to earn nursing licensure, can opt for a multistate license. A multistate license requires applying to a state nursing board and meeting the uniform licensure requirements (ULRs) set forth by the compact.
The terms “multistate license” and “compact license” are used interchangeably in nursing. They refer to a license to practice as an RN issued by a compact home state licensing board, which authorizes the licensed RN to practice in all compact states under a multistate licensure privilege.
There are currently 43 U.S. states and territories in the NLC. The following have pending NLC legislation or are not members:
- American Samoa
- Alaska (pending legislation)
- California
- Hawaii (pending legislation)
- Illinois (pending legislation)
- Michigan (pending legislation)
- Minnesota (pending legislation)
- Nevada
- New York (pending legislation)
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Oregon
Pending NLC legislation in six of these states means that nurses holding a multistate license could access even more job markets in the future.
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Wisconsin’s Status in the Nurse Licensure Compact
Since Wisconsin is a participant in the Nurse Licensure Compact, RN license applicants who meet eligibility requirements and declare Wisconsin as their primary (or future primary) state of residence can hold a multistate license.
It is important to note that attending a nursing program like Marquette’s in Wisconsin is not the same as being a Wisconsin resident. NLC eligibility is based on your primary state of residence, not where you attend school.
Many students may attend school in one state while living in another. This is especially relevant to our Pleasant Prairie program site and main Milwaukee campus, located close to Illinois (a non-NLC state), so residency is something to keep in mind as you plan. You may still be eligible for a Wisconsin multistate license if you indicate that you plan on moving to Wisconsin on your application.
How a Compact State Nurse License Works
To qualify for a compact license, a nurse must reside in a compact state. After earning a nursing degree from an accredited program and passing the NCLEX-RN, you apply for licensure through your home state’s board of nursing. If you meet all requirements, your license is issued as a multistate license rather than a single-state license.
With a compact license, you are legally allowed to practice in other compact states without applying for additional licenses. However, you must still follow each state’s laws and regulations while working there. If you move to a non-compact state, you would work with the appropriate board of nursing to update your licensure.
Benefits of Holding a Compact Nursing License
For nurses, earning RN licensure in a compact state like Wisconsin can be a huge career advantage over earning licensure in a non-compact state. Research has shown that a majority of surveyed nurses felt that the NLC both improves access to nursing care and expands their personal career options.
With a compact license, you can apply for jobs in multiple states without waiting for additional licenses to be approved. This can make it easier to quickly accept job offers. Compact licensure can also reduce long-term costs and paperwork. Instead of maintaining multiple licenses, you maintain one primary license with multistate privileges.
In the long run, a compact license can also support career growth by allowing you to more easily pursue opportunities. For students who are not certain where they want to settle or who value adaptability, Wisconsin’s compact status is a meaningful advantage.
How to Apply for a Compact License in Wisconsin
Nurse licensure only occurs after graduating with a degree, even if you pass the NCLEX-RN as a student. Once you have earned a nursing degree and passed the NCLEX-RN, you apply for licensure through the Wisconsin Board of Nursing if Wisconsin is your primary (or future primary) state of residence. At that time, you would indicate your desire for a multistate license.
The application process involves certain steps, including verifying your education and submitting required documentation related to residency. There are fees associated with licensure, and processing times can vary.
As a Marquette DE-MSN student, you will receive guidance on the licensure process, including information on timelines and application steps. Note that applying for licensure is not part of our program. Planning and understanding requirements early can help reduce stress when transitioning to professional nursing practice.
What This Means for Your Nursing Career Mobility
For prospective nursing students, a multistate nursing license can help with both immediate logistics and long-term opportunities. You can begin working in another compact state immediately after earning your RN license if you want to move, even though the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists nursing as the fifth-largest occupation in Wisconsin.
Whether you plan to live and work near state borders or simply want flexibility, understanding the NLC can help you make informed decisions. Wisconsin’s status as a compact state supports that kind of planning, helping new nurses enter the workforce with confidence.
Discover how relocating to a nursing school out of state is achievable, and learn how Marquette helps direct entry MSN students adjust.
Pursue Your Nursing Career With Marquette’s DE-MSN
After enrolling as a Marquette DE-MSN student and completing a curriculum of nursing theory coursework, in-person clinical simulation, and clinical learning experiences at top area health care facilities in Pleasant Prairie and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you will be prepared to pursue a multistate nursing license.
Make sure your nursing career options stay as open as possible by earning an MSN from Marquette. Get in touch today by filling out your contact information. An admissions adviser will reach out soon to explore next steps.