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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Bar Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $137,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $157,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $126,600 | Degree required | Third-party 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $48,280 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $78,150 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $90,770 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.