Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Crane Operator in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- 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
$68,310 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to WI Department of Safety and Professional Services~Division of Professional Credential Processing and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of $68,310, Crane Operators in Wisconsin earn 3% above the national median of $66,370. Wisconsin ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,213Median annual salary
$68,310Hourly estimate
$32.843% above national median
Difference: +$1,940
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#23 of 50 statesfor Crane Operator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | $129,930 |
| #2 | Hawaii | $115,870 |
| #3 | Oregon | $110,280 |
| #4 | New York | $110,000 |
| #5 | Washington | $96,870 |
Nearby States Comparison
Crane Operator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $68,310 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $67,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,620 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $53,240 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $77,110 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 50 | 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
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $72,260 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $50,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $60,390 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $70,700 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Wisconsin?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Crane Operators in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Crane Operator licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Wisconsin is $68,310. Salaries range from $45,310 (10th percentile) to $104,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Wisconsin earn 3% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $68,310.
How many Crane Operators work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 730 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator 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 Crane Operators 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.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.