Wisconsin Contractor License Requirements
2026 Guide — Everything you need to know about contractor licensing in Wisconsin.
496
Contractors in WI
337
Verified Licenses
9 yrs
Avg. Experience
10
Cities Covered
Wisconsin Licensing Board
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
License Types in Wisconsin
Dwelling Contractor Certification
Required for residential construction
Dwelling Contractor Qualifier
Must pass exam; one per company
Electrical License
State license for electrical work
Plumbing License
State license for plumbing work
Bond Requirements
$25,000
Minimum surety bond
$25,000 surety bond or proof of financial responsibility
Insurance Requirements
General Liability Insurance
Required. General liability of $250,000 per occurrence and $500,000 aggregate required
Workers' Compensation
Required when you have employees.
Penalties for Unlicensed Work
Forfeiture of $1,000 to $5,000; subsequent violations: up to $10,000; contracts may be voided
How to Verify a License in Wisconsin
1. Use Our Free Verification Tool
Search our database of 496 contractors in Wisconsin by name, license number, or business name.
Verify a contractor now2. Check the Official State Board
Visit the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) for real-time license verification and disciplinary actions.
Visit Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wisconsin require a contractor license?
Yes, Wisconsin requires contractors to obtain a state license through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). 4 license types are available depending on the scope of work.
What are the bond requirements for contractors in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin requires a minimum surety bond of $25,000. $25,000 surety bond or proof of financial responsibility
What are the penalties for unlicensed contracting in Wisconsin?
Forfeiture of $1,000 to $5,000; subsequent violations: up to $10,000; contracts may be voided
Is insurance required for contractors in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin requires contractors to carry insurance. General liability of $250,000 per occurrence and $500,000 aggregate required
How do I verify a contractor's license in Wisconsin?
You can verify a contractor's license through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) website at https://dsps.wi.gov/pages/Professions/DwellingContractorCertification/Default.aspx. You can also use our free license verification tool at vemra.ai/licensing/verify to search our database of 496 contractor profiles in Wisconsin.
How many licensed contractors are there in Wisconsin?
Our database includes 496 contractor profiles in Wisconsin, with 337 verified license numbers on file. The average contractor in Wisconsin has 9 years of experience.