Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required 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
$78,510 median (25% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 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 78,510, Plumbers in Wisconsin earn 25% above the national median of $62,970. Wisconsin ranks #8 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
$78,510Hourly estimate
$37.7525% above national median
Difference: +$15,540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#8 of 50 statesfor Plumber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Illinois | 96,200 |
| #2 | Oregon | 93,110 |
| #3 | Minnesota | 83,280 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | Alaska | 83,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Plumber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $78,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $83,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $61,230 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,200 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $77,030 | Specific course required | State 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 | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $60,390 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $75,090 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $57,470 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $62,030 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber 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 Plumbers in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Plumbers.
What education do you need to become a Plumber in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Plumber licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Plumber salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in Wisconsin is 78,510. Salaries range from $48,960 (10th percentile) to $114,460 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Plumbers in Wisconsin earn 25% above the national median of $62,970, with a state median of 78,510.
How many Plumbers work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 9,120 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Plumbers 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.