Transferring your teaching license from Michigan to Wisconsin
Transfer pathway available — expect Wisconsin exams + likely an interim license
Michigan and Wisconsin both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Wisconsin's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 2,262 open teaching jobs in Wisconsin →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Michigan)
- Issuing authority
- Michigan Department of Education
- License type
- Provisional Certificate (6 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Michigan participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Michigan Provisional Certificate; MTTC subject exams may still be required.
Wisconsin certification
- Issuing authority
- Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI)
- License you'll earn
- Initial Educator License (5 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; APL can take 2–3 years while teaching
- Wisconsin reciprocity policy
- Wisconsin participates in NASDTEC. Teachers with 2+ years of valid out-of-state teaching experience can often receive a Wisconsin license without additional exams.
Exams typically required in Wisconsin
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Wisconsin's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE)Basic reading, writing, and math skills
- Praxis Subject AssessmentContent knowledge for the certification area
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your Michigan credential is current. Wisconsin will request a verification of your active Provisional Certificate from Michigan Department of Education.
- Apply through Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Wisconsin-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Wisconsin may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Wisconsin districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 2,262 active openings — browse Wisconsin teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Wisconsin with a Michigan teaching license?
Michigan and Wisconsin both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Wisconsin's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
What exams are required to teach in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Wisconsin take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; APL can take 2–3 years while teaching.
Who issues teaching licenses in Wisconsin?
Teaching licenses in Wisconsin are issued by Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).