Wisconsin Dwelling Contractor License — How to Get Licensed

General contractor licensing in Wisconsin begins with the Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification. This requires a state-mandated 12-hour training course, however, once the certification is received you can already work on one- and two-family dwellings. Application fees are $15 and credential fees $30, although you will also need to pay for the course which varies depending on the provider you use.

Once you have your Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification you can apply for the dwelling contractor and dwelling contractor restricted licenses. These licenses allow you to subcontract work to other trades, with the restricted license placing an upper contract limit of $25,000. Fees for these licenses include a $15 application fee, a $25 credential fee, and an $25 annual renewal fee.

It’s also important to point out that these licenses are required alongside specialty contractor licenses such as:

• Plumbing
• Electrical
• HVAC

Below, we look at the licensing steps in more detail.

Step 1 — Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you start the application process, make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements. These typically include being at least 18 years old, having a valid Social Security Number, and possessing a high school diploma or equivalent. In addition, you will need:

• Proof of Business — as an applicant you must act as either an owner of the contracting business, a partner in the contracting business applying on behalf of a partnership, or the chairman of the board or chief executive officer applying on behalf of the contracting corporation.
• Workers’ Compensation — You must attest by signing page two of the application that your business is in compliance with workers' compensation requirements.
• Unemployment Compensation — Your business must be in compliance with unemployment compensation requirements. You can attest to that by signing page two of the application form.
• Proof of Financial Responsibility — You must provide one of the following proofs of financial responsibility:
  • Surety Bond
  • Liability Insurance

Step 2 — Complete Pre-License Education

Wisconsin requires contractors to complete 12 hours of pre-license education in order to apply for the dwelling contractor qualifier certification. This education focuses on various aspects of contracting work, including state regulations, safety standards, and business practices.

Step 3 — Apply for the License

Submit an application to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). The application will require you to provide personal information, proof of education, and details about your business.

Step 4 — Obtain a Surety Bond

Step 5 — Submit Proof of Insurance

Contractors must also provide proof of liability insurance. This type of general contractor insurance protects you and your clients in case of accidents or damages that occur during your work.

Step 6 — Pay the Licensing Fee

Finally, pay the required licensing fee. The fee amount may vary based on the type of license and your business's size. Check the DSPS website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.

The state-wide dwelling contractor license is required for any individual or business that plans to work on residential buildings. This license ensures that contractors are knowledgeable about state building codes and safety regulations. However, each city or county may have additional requirements, such as building permits or applications that you should be aware of. You can find more information on the requirements by city using the links below.

Requirements by City

Elkhorn

• Issuing Entity — Elkhorn Building and Zoning Department
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Specialty Contractor
• Requirements: Varies; check the Elkhorn Building and Zoning Department for details on permits and applications.

Kenosha

• Issuing Entity: Kenosha Building Inspection Division
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Electrical, Plumbing
• Requirements: Varies; check the Kenosha Building Inspection Division for permit and application details.

La Crosse

• Issuing Entity: La Crosse Building and Inspection Department
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Specialty Contractor
• Requirements: Varies; check the La Crosse Building and Inspection Department for permit and application information.

Madison

• Issuing Entity: Madison Building Inspection Division
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Electrical, Plumbing
• Requirements: Varies; check the Madison Building Inspection Division for details.

Milwaukee

• Issuing Entity: Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services
• Types of Licenses: Concrete contractors, electrical contractors, home improvement contractors, plumbing contractors
• Requirements: Varies; check the Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services for details on licensing regulations.

Oconomowoc

• Issuing Entity: Oconomowoc Building Inspection Department
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Specialty Contractor
• Requirements: Varies; check the Oconomowoc Government page for details on permits and applications.

Sheboygan

• Issuing Entity: Sheboygan Building Division
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Specialty Contractor
• Requirements: Varies; check the Sheboygan Building Division for details.

Superior

• Issuing Entity: Superior Building Inspection Department
• Types of Licenses: Building contractors, electrical contractors, HVAC contractors, and plumbers.
• Requirements: Varies; check the Superior Building Inspection Department for details on contractor registration.

West Allis

• Issuing Entity: West Allis Code Enforcement Department
• Types of Licenses: General Contractor, Specialty Contractor
• Requirements: Varies; check the West Allis Code Enforcement Department for details.

The process of obtaining a dwelling contractor license in Wisconsin typically takes between 4 to 8 weeks. This timeframe includes completing the required education, passing the licensing exam, obtaining a surety bond and insurance, and submitting the application. Delays can occur if there are issues with the application or if additional information is needed by the licensing authorities.

Let’s take Mike as an example. Mike begins by researching the requirements on the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) website. He learns that, although Wisconsin doesn’t explicitly offer a general contractor license, contractors performing general contractor duties must obtain a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier License. Additionally, Mike is looking to subcontract plumbing and electrical work, so he’ll also need a full Dwelling Contractor License.

Mike starts by enrolling in a state-mandated 12-hour initial training course required for the Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification. This course covers essential topics such as Wisconsin's building codes and safety standards. After completing the training, Mike passes the required examination. He then applies for the Dwelling Contractor Qualifier License, paying a $15 application fee and a $30 credential fee.

With his Dwelling Contractor Qualifier License in hand, Mike is eligible to work on one- and two-family dwellings. To fully operate as a general contractor, Mike needs to obtain the Dwelling Contractor License. He ensures he meets all additional requirements, including compliance with worker’s compensation and unemployment compensation regulations. He also secures a surety bond of at least $25,000 and provides proof of liability insurance for $250,000. We have helped thousands of contractors like Mike get the best deals on their surety bonds, even ensuring those with bad credit can get the bond they need.

After ensuring all requirements are met and the application is complete, Mike is issued his Dwelling Contractor License. This allows him to legally offer his general contracting services in Madison and take on larger projects that include other trades and services.

Getting your dwelling contractor license in Wisconsin requires plenty of research and preparation, however, you can access free licensing tips, as well as a free bond quote, through our form below. Remember, a successful application allows you to operate legally and professionally within the state, so this should always be your first priority.