Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Welder in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 4 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State 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
$55,630 median (9% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#24 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Welder licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. 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 $55,630, Welders in Wisconsin earn 9% above the national median of $51,000. Wisconsin ranks #24 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 4 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,213Median annual salary
$55,630Hourly estimate
$26.759% above national median
Difference: +$4,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#24 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | $76,970 |
| #2 | Alaska | $75,140 |
| #3 | Wyoming | $66,070 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $64,520 |
| #5 | Washington | $61,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Welder licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $55,630 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 4 years |
| Minnesota | $58,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $49,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $49,730 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $48,930 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- 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
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $72,260 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $50,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $60,390 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $70,700 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Welder in Wisconsin?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 4 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Welders in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What is the typical Welder salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Welders in Wisconsin is $55,630. Salaries range from $46,270 (10th percentile) to $64,960 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Welders in Wisconsin earn 9% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of $55,630.
How many Welders work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 16,820 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder 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 Welders 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 Welder license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.