Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Education
Librarian Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for librarian in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Librarian in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WDPI) • Division for Libraries and Technology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,610 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 63,610, Librarians in Wisconsin earn 1% below the national median of $64,320. Wisconsin ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$63,610Hourly estimate
$30.581% below national median
Difference: -$710
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLibrarian Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Librarian median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 94,400 |
| #2 | California | 86,590 |
| #3 | Maryland | 81,690 |
| #4 | Nevada | 79,710 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 79,380 |
Nearby States Comparison
Librarian licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $63,610 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $75,260 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $52,780 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $62,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $59,520 | Degree required | 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 | 72 | Medium | 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 | 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WDPI) • Division for Libraries and Technology
125 S. Webster St., PO Box 7841, Madison, WI, 53707-7841
Phone: 6082662413
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $60,690 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $63,690 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $93,310 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $90,380 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Librarian 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 education do you need to become a Librarian in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Librarian licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Librarian salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Librarians in Wisconsin is 63,610. Salaries range from $43,560 (10th percentile) to $83,950 (90th percentile).
How does the Librarian salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Librarians in Wisconsin earn 1% below the national median of $64,320, with a state median of 63,610.
How many Librarians work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 2,370 Librarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Librarian 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 Librarians in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WDPI) / Division for Libraries and Technology. Review agency details at http://dpi.wi.gov/pld/certification.