Educator License Application Processing Timeline

Summer is DPI's busiest time for processing license applications, due to higher volume of applications received. Please review the following information before contacting DPI by phone or e-mail:

• Receipt of Application
• How long will it take to get my license?
• Complete, Accurate Application

Receipt of Application

Use the License Look-up to verify that a license application has been received by DPI. During our peak season (May to September), please allow at least three weeks after mailing your application for our website to reflect receipt of the application.

How long will it take to get my license?

The approximate processing timeline is based on the type of application submitted and the date we have received all required application materials and documentation. When you submit a complete, accurate application, you should expect processing of your application will take the approximate number of weeks listed below before a license can be issued.

• 5-year or Professional Educator Renewals - 4 weeks
• Initial Educator Advancement to Professional Educator - 8 weeks
• Initial In-State (Graduates of Wisconsin programs) - 10 weeks
• Initial Out of State (Graduates of Non-Wisconsin programs) - 14 weeks
• Emergency Licenses and Permits - 6 weeks
• Substitute Permits (First Time or Renewal) - 4 weeks
• Special Education Aide Licenses (First Time or Renewal) - 4 weeks

Note: The approximate processing timeline listed above begins after we have received all required information and documentation.

Complete, Accurate Application

Complete, accurate applications, those with all required information and documentation included with the original application submission can be processed by licensing consultants much more quickly than incomplete applications where information/documentation is missing, submitted separately or must be requested by the department. Responding promptly to department requests for information or clarification will minimize additional time needed to process your application. No exceptions are made to the information required since it is prescribed by state statute and administrative code.

DPI licensing consultants use the license search website as the primary source of information. Unless you are notified that your application is incomplete, you should assume that it is in process and that a license certificate will be issued and mailed to you as soon as our staff complete the necessary review.

For questions about this information, contact licensing@dpi.wi.gov (608) 266-1027

Last updated on 7/25/2011 8:52:58 AM