Certifications & licenses in Wisconsin
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in WI. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Wisconsin
Licensing landscape in Wisconsin
As of 2025, cosmetologists must complete 1,550 training hours, and renew their license by March 31st of odd-numbered years with 4 hours of continuing education.
Wisconsin Cosmetology Examining Board
In addition to 600 hours of education, applicants for a massage therapist license must show proof of malpractice liability insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence.
Wisconsin Massage Therapy and Bodywork Therapy Credentialing Board
As of June 2023, out-of-state EMTs with a current National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification can apply for reciprocity in Wisconsin for a $50 fee.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services
The DSPS oversees more than 200 different types of credentials and provides administrative services to nearly 100 boards, councils, and advisory committees.
Department of Safety and Professional Services
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Wisconsin
A $65K Wisconsin salary has roughly the purchasing power of a $67,850 salary in an average-COL state.
Regional comparison: Wisconsin vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs WI |
|---|---|---|
| WI | $45,130 | — |
| IL | $45,960 | +2% vs WI |
| IA | $39,350 | -13% vs WI |
| MI | $39,570 | -12% vs WI |
| MN | $46,680 | +3% vs WI |
| State | Required training hours | vs WI |
|---|---|---|
| WI | 600 hours | — |
| IL | 600 hours | 0 hours |
| IA | 600 hours | 0 hours |
| MI | 625 hours | +25 hours |
| MN | 500 hours | -100 hours |
Healthcare in Wisconsin
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $45,130 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $47,520 |
| EMT | Required | $43,060 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $63,760 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $48,680 |
| Medical Coder | No | $60,280 |
| Paramedic | Required | $59,710 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $45,970 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $46,470 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $79,140 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $95,530 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $84,210 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $74,120 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $96,540 |
Skilled Trades in Wisconsin
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $58,610 |
| Electrician | Required | $76,540 |
| HVAC Technician | No | $61,710 |
| Plumber | Required | $81,210 |
| Welder | Required | $58,410 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Wisconsin
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $44,200 |
| Barber | Required | $36,540 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $36,230 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $58,070 |
Professional & Business in Wisconsin
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $79,400 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $58,500 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $79,450 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $58,120 |