Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$93,310 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of 93,310, Architects in Wisconsin earn 3% below the national median of $96,690. Wisconsin ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$93,310Hourly estimate
$44.863% below national median
Difference: -$3,380
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#25 of 50 statesfor Architect median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Wyoming | 107,040 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 106,950 |
| #3 | California | 105,840 |
| #4 | Alaska | 105,340 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 105,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
Architect licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $93,310 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $95,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $86,990 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $79,320 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $82,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
1400 E. Washington Ave., P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI, 53708-8935
Phone: 6082662112
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $90,770 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $115,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $50,020 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Wisconsin?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Architects in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Architect licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Architect salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Architects in Wisconsin is 93,310. Salaries range from $60,620 (10th percentile) to $126,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Architects in Wisconsin earn 3% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 93,310.
How many Architects work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 1,330 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Architects in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Department of Safety and Professional Services / Division of Professional Credential Processing. Review agency details at https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Default.aspx.