2026 data Wisconsin board official source

Wisconsin Secondary School Teacher License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Instructs students in grades 7-12. Requires state teaching certificate.

What the Wisconsin data shows for Secondary School Teachers

Wisconsin's path to secondary school teacher licensure runs through board-approved instruction and a passing score on State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Wisconsin folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree plus Subject Certification".

Budget $105 to get started, plus $72 at each renewal on a 5-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 150-hour continuing-education requirement per 5-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For secondary school teachers, the reciprocity picture is: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states.

Licensing Requirements in Wisconsin

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree plus Subject Certification
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$105
Renewal Fee
$72
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Wisconsin licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Secondary School Teacher in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent), and a $105 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Secondary School Teacher in Wisconsin?
Certification as a secondary school teacher in Wisconsin means clearing the state's checklist, and a passing exam score. The Wisconsin licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Secondary School Teacher license to Wisconsin from another state?
Secondary School Teacher licenses generally reciprocate as follows: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Wisconsin licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Wisconsin require a background check for Secondary School Teacher licensing?
Background screening is part of the secondary school teacher licensing process in Wisconsin. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Secondary School Teacher in Wisconsin?
Licensed secondary school teachers in Wisconsin must complete 150 hours of continuing education every 5 years. The renewal fee is $72.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites