How to Become an Electrician in Wisconsin

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Wisconsin

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $62,540/year
Job Outlook: 8% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 24 hours/biennial (2 years)

✓ Information verified from official sources (Last updated: 2025-01-27)

⚠️ Important Note for Wisconsin

Wisconsin requires statewide licensing through DSPS

Electrician License Requirements in Wisconsin

Licensing Authority

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)

Phone: (608) 266-2112

Website: https://dsps.wi.gov/

Official Source: https://dsps.wi.gov/

License Types & Requirements

Registered Electrical Apprentice

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $35
  • Requirements: Must register and work under licensed electrician

Journeyman Electrician

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - DSPS
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, pass journeyman exam

Master Electrician

  • Required Hours: 12,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - DSPS
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours as journeyman, pass master exam

Electrical Contractor

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Requirements: Must employ licensed master electrician

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Wisconsin

Step 1: Complete High School Education

Earn a high school diploma or GED. Focus on math (especially algebra and trigonometry), physics, and shop classes if available.

Step 2: Enter an Apprenticeship Program

Apply to an apprenticeship program through a union (IBEW) or independent electrical contractor. In Wisconsin, you'll typically need 8000 hours of on-the-job training.

Step 3: Complete Required Hours

Work under supervision while logging your hours. Most apprenticeships in Wisconsin take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the DSPS journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Wisconsin

Entry Level: $43,180/year
Median Salary: $62,540/year
Experienced: $82,560/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

Wisconsin has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • Minnesota
  • Michigan
  • Illinois

This means if you're licensed in one of these states, you may be able to obtain a Wisconsin license with reduced requirements.

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Wisconsin

  • Milwaukee
  • Madison
  • Green Bay
  • Kenosha
  • Racine

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Wisconsin, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education every biennial (2 years).

Start Your Electrician Career in Wisconsin

Contact the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) for application details and approved training programs.

Visit Licensing Board

Recommended Resources

📘
NFPA 70: NEC 2026 Required for most exams
📗
Ugly's Electrical References Quick reference guide
🔧
Klein Tools Apprentice Tool Set Essential hand tools

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