Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Trades
General Contractor Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for general contractor in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for General Contractor in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone 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
$113,170 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for General Contractor licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to WI Department of Safety and Professional Services~Division of Professional Credential Processing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of $113,170, General Contractors in Wisconsin earn 6% above the national median of $106,980. Wisconsin ranks #15 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
$113,170Hourly estimate
$54.416% above national median
Difference: +$6,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeneral Contractor Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor General Contractor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Massachusetts | $147,750 |
| #2 | Washington | $136,180 |
| #3 | Alaska | $135,630 |
| #4 | New York | $135,530 |
| #5 | Delaware | $135,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
General Contractor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $113,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $117,500 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $96,300 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $108,570 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $103,610 | Varies by state board | 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 | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- 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 General Contractor 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 is the typical General Contractor salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for General Contractors in Wisconsin is $113,170. Salaries range from $72,150 (10th percentile) to $170,150 (90th percentile).
How does the General Contractor salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
General Contractors in Wisconsin earn 6% above the national median of $106,980, with a state median of $113,170.
How many General Contractors work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 4,990 General Contractors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my General Contractor license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for General Contractors 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 General Contractor license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.