Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WI Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in Wisconsin, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: No experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Dept of Natural Resources • Integrated Science Services
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$90,770 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass the required examination: No exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the WI Dept of Natural Resources~Integrated Science Services.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of 90,770, Civil Engineers in Wisconsin earn 9% below the national median of 99590. Wisconsin ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$90,770Hourly estimate
$43.649% below national median
Difference: -$8,820
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#43 of 50 statesfor Civil Engineer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 118,450 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 112,250 |
| #3 | Alaska | 107,240 |
| #4 | Washington | 105,090 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 104,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Civil Engineer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $90,770 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $101,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $94,500 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $97,640 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $85,550 | No educational requirements | No 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 | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
WI Dept of Natural Resources • Integrated Science Services
101 S. Webster St. SS/6, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI, 53707-7921
Phone: 6082672300
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,310 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,150 | Degree required | 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 Civil Engineer 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 Civil Engineers in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Civil Engineers.
What education do you need to become a Civil Engineer in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Civil Engineer licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in Wisconsin is 90,770. Salaries range from 63920 (10th percentile) to 132280 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in Wisconsin earn 9% below the national median of 99590, with a state median of 90,770.
How many Civil Engineers work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 7050 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Dept of Natural Resources / Integrated Science Services. Review agency details at http://dnr.wi.gov/regulations/opcert/septage.html.