Electrician License Requirements in Wisconsin
| Licensing Authority | Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) |
| License Type | Journeyman Electrician / Master Electrician |
| Experience Required | 8,000 hours of supervised electrical work for Journeyman; Master requires additional experience beyond Journeyman level |
| Education Substitute | Approved apprenticeship program combining classroom and on-the-job training |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Electrician Exam + Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 24 hours 4 years |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $35 |
| Exam Fee | $30 |
| Initial License Fee | $100 |
| Master exam fee | $20 |
| Master credential fee | $200 |
| Apprentice registration | $30 |
| Est. Initial Total | $415 |
Renewal: $100 every 4 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Electrician Exam
100 questions4 hoursPass: 70%
National Electrical Code (NEC)Wisconsin electrical codeElectrical theorySafety
Master Electrician Exam
50 questions4 hoursPass: 70%
Advanced NECWisconsin electrical codeBusiness practices
Exam provider: DSPS
License Tiers
Apprentice Electrician
Entry level — registered with DSPS
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
8,000 hours supervised electrical work plus classroom instruction
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
Must hold Journeyman license; additional 2 years as Journeyman
Exam: Required
Notes
- License term runs on a 4-year cycle ending June 30
- 24 hours of CE required per renewal cycle
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a electrician license in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin requires a statewide electrician license through the Department of Safety and Professional Services.
How much does a electrician license cost in Wisconsin?
The estimated initial cost is $165, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DSPS