Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher 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 K-12 Teacher 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) • Teacher Education, Professional Development, and Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,690 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 60,690, K-12 Teachers in Wisconsin earn 3% below the national median of $62,340. Wisconsin ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$60,690Hourly estimate
$29.183% below national median
Difference: -$1,650
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 99,110 |
| #2 | California | 98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | New York | 82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $60,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $63,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $55,540 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $64,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $62,350 | 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | 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) • Teacher Education, Professional Development, and Licensing
125 S. Webster St., P.O. Box 7841, Madison, WI, 53703-7841
Phone: 6082661027
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $63,610 | 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 K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teacher in Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Wisconsin is 60,690. Salaries range from $46,690 (10th percentile) to $89,950 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Wisconsin earn 3% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 60,690.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 25,080 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teachers in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WDPI) / Teacher Education, Professional Development, and Licensing. Review agency details at http://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/pupil-services/school-counseling/licensing/process.