How to Get a Wisconsin Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

If you're interested in becoming a real estate agent in Wisconsin, this guide provides everything you need to know to get your license. 

From the pre-licensing education requirements to the application process, we’ll walk through each step to help you navigate this journey.

Let’s get started.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Wisconsin

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Wisconsin involves several steps. Below, we outline each step in order, including requirements, application processes, and tips for success.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you can begin the licensing process, you must meet the following prerequisites:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or equivalent

Step 2: Complete Pre-Licensing Education

To qualify for the Wisconsin real estate license exam, you must complete a 72-hour pre-licensing course from a provider approved by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). 

As an alternative, you can complete 10 semester credit hours in related courses from an institution of higher learning.

The DSPS-approved course will cover essential real estate topics, including:

• Real Estate Law: Understanding Wisconsin-specific real estate regulations and practices.
• Property Ownership and Land Use Controls: Familiarization with property types, ownership rights, and land regulations.
• Financing and Mortgages: Basics of financing, mortgages, and lending practices in real estate transactions.
• Contracts and Transaction Procedures: Key elements of real estate contracts and how to manage client transactions.
• Fair Housing and Ethics: Laws related to fair housing and ethical practices in real estate.

At the end of the pre-licensing course, you’ll need to pass a final exam with a minimum passing score of 75% to earn your completion certificate. 

This certificate is required to proceed with your exam application.

If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Wisconsin students. 

Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.

Step 3: Apply for the Real Estate Exam

Once you complete the pre-licensing course, the next step is to apply for the Wisconsin Real Estate Salesperson Exam. Here’s how to apply:

1. Submit your application to Pearson VUE, the designated testing provider for Wisconsin.
2. Visit the Pearson VUE website, create an account, and follow the instructions to schedule your exam.
3. You’ll need to provide your course completion certificate and pay the exam fee. Be prepared to supply personal identification details and verify your eligibility.

Step 4: Pass the Wisconsin Real Estate Salesperson Exam

The Wisconsin real estate exam consists of 140 questions: 100 covering national real estate topics and 40 focused on Wisconsin state regulations. 

You’ll have 4 hours to complete the exam, which is divided into these two main sections. To pass, you must score at least 75%.

To prepare effectively, start by reviewing your pre-licensing course materials, paying close attention to key concepts such as contracts, property ownership, and Wisconsin-specific laws. 

We provide a Wisconsin real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam. 

You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.

Step 5: Submit Your Real Estate License Application

After passing the exam, apply for your Wisconsin real estate license online through the Wisconsin (DSPS) website. Here’s how:

1. Create an Account: Set up your account on the DSPS website and complete the online application.
2. Provide Required Documents: You’ll need to submit the following materials:some text
   • Exam results: A copy of your passing exam scores.
   • Pre-licensing course completion: A certificate from your approved real estate school.
   • Application fee: As specified by DSPS.

Double-check all submission requirements to avoid processing delays.

Step 6: Find a Sponsoring Broker

In Wisconsin, newly licensed agents are required to work under a licensed real estate broker. 

A sponsoring broker provides essential support, including training, access to client leads, and tools to help you start your career. 

Research brokerages that align with your goals and offer mentorship opportunities.

Once you have signed with a brokerage, you’re an official real estate agent.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Wisconsin

In this section, we answer common questions about obtaining and maintaining a real estate license in Wisconsin.

How Much Do Wisconsin Real Estate Agents Make?

On average, Wisconsin real estate agents earn around $53,840 annually. However, earnings can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, and the number of transactions completed. 

Top-performing agents with established networks often earn significantly more, as real estate income is primarily commission-based. 

For instance, Indeed reports that the average base salary for a real estate agent in Wisconsin is $91,329 per year, with reported earnings ranging from $39,101 to $213,315.

How Much Does a License Cost?

The overall cost of becoming a real estate agent in Wisconsin typically ranges between $500 and $800. 

This includes essential fees, with additional optional expenses that can support exam preparation and licensing success.

Here is a breakdown of the costs:

• Pre-licensing education: $300–$500, depending on the provider and course format (online or in-person).
• Exam fee: $65 for the Wisconsin Real Estate Salesperson Exam.
• DSPS license application fee: $60.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Wisconsin Worth It?

For motivated individuals, a career in Wisconsin real estate can be highly rewarding, offering both financial and personal growth opportunities. 

The market here is diverse, covering urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison, suburban areas, and scenic lake regions that attract both residential and commercial buyers. 

Real estate agents can specialize in residential sales, commercial properties, vacation homes, or even investment properties, each with unique income potential. Additionally, the income in real estate is commission-based, meaning agents have significant control over their earnings, with top performers building lucrative careers.

Beyond financial gains, the career also allows for professional growth through networking, skill development, and client relationship management. Those who establish a strong client base and a solid reputation can enjoy long-term stability in an industry that values both expertise and client satisfaction.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Before beginning, it’s important to understand that real estate is not an "instant success" field; building a client base takes time and effort. 

Real estate agents often work outside the typical nine-to-five schedule, accommodating clients on weekends, evenings, and sometimes on short notice. Success in real estate relies on networking, marketing, and maintaining a visible presence in the community. Agents need to be skilled at self-promotion, social media, and effective client follow-ups.

Additionally, because the field is competitive, staying adaptable and responsive to market changes is essential. 

Continuous learning, such as taking additional courses or staying updated on local market trends, can give agents an edge. 

For those prepared to invest in relationship-building and marketing while managing the demands of a flexible yet unpredictable schedule, a career in real estate can be both fulfilling and profitable.

Can I Get a Wisconsin Real Estate License if I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

Yes, Wisconsin offers reciprocity with certain states, allowing out-of-state agents from Illinois and Indiana to apply for a license without repeating the entire process. 

However, you’ll still need to pass the Wisconsin state portion of the licensing exam and meet all other requirements set by the DSPS. This helps ensure agents are familiar with state-specific laws and practices.

How Often Do I Renew My License?

Wisconsin real estate licenses are renewed every two years. To maintain an active license, agents must complete 18 hours of continuing education (CE) within each renewal period. Staying current with CE ensures you remain up-to-date with regulations and industry practices.

What Should I Do After Getting My Wisconsin Real Estate License?

After licensing, start networking and building a client base. Many new agents join local real estate associations, attend industry events, and connect with experienced agents.

Investing in marketing materials, setting up a professional website, and utilizing social media can also help you attract clients and grow your business.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Wisconsin

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Wisconsin opens the door to a dynamic and potentially lucrative career. With commitment, the right brokerage support, and ongoing education, you can build a successful real estate career. 

If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Wisconsin real estate licensing course today and get a discount.

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