Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer 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 Lawyer in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Bar Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$119,970 median (21% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 119,970, Lawyers in Wisconsin earn 21% below the national median of $151,160. Wisconsin ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,213Median annual salary
$119,970Hourly estimate
$57.6821% below national median
Difference: -$31,190
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Lawyer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 197,790 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 179,050 |
| #3 | New York | 177,210 |
| #4 | Delaware | 172,710 |
| #5 | Colorado | 167,970 |
Nearby States Comparison
Lawyer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $119,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $137,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $157,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $126,600 | 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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Bar Examiners
110 East Main Street, Suite 715, P.O. Box 2748, Madison, WI, 53701-2748
Phone: 6082669760
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 |
| Civil Engineer | $90,770 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $115,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 Lawyers in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Wisconsin is 119,970.
How does the Lawyer salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Wisconsin earn 21% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 119,970.
How many Lawyers work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 8,820 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer 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 Lawyers in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is Board of Bar Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.wicourts.gov/about/organization/offices/bbe.htm.