LicenseCompass

ARCHITECT License in Wisconsin

Quick Answer

To become a registered architect in Wisconsin, you must meet NCARB requirements and register with the Department of Safety and Professional Services. Exemptions exist under s. 443.14 for certain activities.

Exam
ARE - Architect Registration Examination
Timeline
7-10 years (education + experience + exam)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

ARCHITECT license in Wisconsin

gold
Education
No educational requirements
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Exam Fee
$1,410

Licensing Agency

WI Department of Safety and Professional Services~Division of Professional Credential Processing

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your ARCHITECT license in Wisconsin. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Exam FeeEst.$1,410
Total Estimated Cost$1,410

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Wisconsin licensing board.

ARCHITECT Salary in Wisconsin

Entry Level

$60,620

Median

$93,310

Experienced

$126,520

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed ARCHITECT in Wisconsin.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    No educational requirements

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — ARE - Architect Registration Examination

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 7-10 years (education + experience + exam).

ARCHITECT Licensing in Wisconsin: What to Know

Wisconsin requires registration to practice architecture, with exemptions under s. 443.14 and temporary permits under s. 443.10(1)(d) of the Wisconsin Statutes. The practice includes consultation, investigation, evaluation, planning, architectural and structural design, and responsible supervision of construction. The WI Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Professional Credential Processing, oversees all registrations. Wisconsin follows standard NCARB requirements and accepts NCARB certification for reciprocal registration. Wisconsin requires continuing education for license renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a ARCHITECT license in Wisconsin?
The process typically takes 7-10 years (education + experience + exam), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a ARCHITECT license in Wisconsin?
You need to pass the ARE - Architect Registration Examination. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare ARCHITECT requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.