Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker 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
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
$62,510 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. 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 $62,510, Social Workers in Wisconsin earn 10% below the national median of $69,480. Wisconsin ranks #39 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
$62,510Hourly estimate
$30.0510% below national median
Difference: -$6,970
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#39 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | $109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | $108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | $106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | $104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | $100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $62,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $79,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $88,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $63,590 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $58,920 | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Illinois | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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
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
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|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $74,450 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker 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 Social Workers in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Wisconsin is $62,510. Salaries range from $45,310 (10th percentile) to $95,080 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Wisconsin earn 10% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $62,510.
How many Social Workers work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 2,420 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers 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 Social Worker license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.