Wisconsin Professional Licenses
Requirements, fees, renewal periods, and continuing education for every professional license tracked in Wisconsin. Data sourced from DSPS, DOR, DATCP, and DHS.
Construction & Trades
| License | Issuing Body | Initial Fee | Renewal Period | Exam | CE Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
General Contractor Required for contractors performing building construction, remodeling, or structural work. | WI DSPS | $75 | Biennially | No | — |
Master Electrician Required to perform, supervise, and plan electrical installations. | WI DSPS | $60 | Biennially | Required | 24 hrs |
Journeyman Electrician Required to perform electrical work under a master electrician’s supervision. | WI DSPS | $60 | Biennially | Required | 24 hrs |
Master Plumber Required to plan, supervise, and perform plumbing installations. | WI DSPS | $60 | Biennially | Required | 16 hrs |
Journeyman Plumber Required to perform plumbing work under a master plumber’s supervision. | WI DSPS | $60 | Biennially | Required | 16 hrs |
HVAC Contractor Required for installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. | WI DSPS | $60 | Biennially | Required | 12 hrs |
Dwelling Contractor Required for contractors building one- and two-family dwellings and certain additions. | WI DSPS | $75 | Biennially | Required | 12 hrs |
Real Estate & Inspection
| License | Issuing Body | Initial Fee | Renewal Period | Exam | CE Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Home Inspector Required to perform home inspections for real estate transactions. | WI DSPS | $60 | Biennially | Required | 40 hrs |
Real Estate Broker Required to operate a real estate brokerage or practice independently. | WI DSPS | $75 | Biennially | Required | 30 hrs |
Real Estate Salesperson Required to sell real estate under a licensed broker. | WI DSPS | $75 | Biennially | Required | 18 hrs |
Business
| License | Issuing Body | Initial Fee | Renewal Period | Exam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Seller’s Permit Required for businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Wisconsin. | WI DOR | $20 | No renewal — valid until cancelled | No |
Liquor License (Class B) Required for on-premise sale of alcohol (bars, restaurants, taverns). | Municipal Clerk | $500 | Annually (July 1) | No |
Food Dealer License Required for restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks, and any establishment selling food to the public. | WI DATCP / Local Health Dept | $100 | Annually | No |
Health & Safety
| License | Issuing Body | Initial Fee | Renewal Period | Exam | CE Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Asbestos Abatement Contractor Required for contractors performing asbestos removal, encapsulation, or enclosure work. | WI DHS | $200 | Annually | Required | 8 hrs |
Lead Abatement Contractor Required for contractors performing lead paint removal in residential and commercial properties. | WI DHS | $100 | Annually | Required | 8 hrs |
Data source: License requirements and fees are sourced from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), Department of Revenue (DOR), Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP), and Department of Health Services (DHS). Fees and requirements are verified quarterly. Always confirm current requirements directly with the issuing body before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What professional licenses does Wisconsin require for contractors?
Wisconsin requires specific licenses for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors through the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). General contractors must register with DSPS but do not require an exam. Dwelling contractors building one- and two-family homes need a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier (DCQ) credential.
How much does a contractor license cost in Wisconsin?
Most Wisconsin contractor licenses cost $60–$75 for initial application and the same for biennial renewal. Specialty licenses like asbestos abatement cost $200 per year. Municipal contractor registration fees are separate and vary by jurisdiction.
How often do Wisconsin professional licenses need to be renewed?
Most Wisconsin professional licenses issued by DSPS are renewed biennially (every two years). Business licenses like liquor licenses and food dealer licenses are typically renewed annually. Continuing education requirements vary by license type.
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