Frequently Asked Questions

Past Wisconsin Graduates - Never Licensed Initially

I graduated with a K-12 comprehensive physical education major from UW-Eau Claire in 1996 but did not apply for a teaching license at that time and have never taught. If I completed six semester credits now and submit an application with all fees and documentation, would I be eligible to obtain my license?

First you need to complete a PI-1602-IS application and have UW-Eau Claire's Certifying Officer complete the Institutional Endorsement section verifying that you completed their approved education program. With that endorsement you have three options (See Page 2b of PI-1602-IS):

1. If you have completed six semester credits in education courses from a regionally accredited four-year bachelor degree granting institution, within the five year period preceding the July 1 license start date you would be eligible for a regular five-year educator license (e.g. If the new license will start on July 1, 2011, credits must have been completed between 7/1/2006 and 6/30/2011). Submit original transcripts (or grade reports) verifying coursework to DPI with the PI-1602-IS form and fee.
2. There are no professional growth requirements for a five-year substitute license. To apply for a five-year substitute license, submit the PI-1602-IS form and fee.
3. If a Wisconsin school district wishes to employ you prior to completing the six semester credits, you may be eligible for a one-year non-renewable license. Attach a district request verifying employment for current school year with the PI-1602-IS form and fee.

I completed certification for elementary grades 1 - 8 in 1988 at UW-Superior. I did not apply for licensure at that time but did teach in private schools in Wisconsin from 1988 to 1995. I then moved to California. What are the requirements for me to obtain an elementary education certification for Wisconsin at this time?

First you need to complete a PI-1602-IS application and have UW-Superior's Certifying Officer complete the Institutional Endorsement section verifying that you completed their approved education program. With that endorsement you have three options (See Page 2b of PI-1602-IS):

1. If you have taught one semester as a licensed teacher in a regular (non substitute) assignment or have earned six semester credits in education courses from a regionally accredited four-year bachelor degree granting institution, within the five year period preceding the July 1 license start date you would be eligible for a regular five-year educator license, (e.g. If the new license will start on July 1, 2011, employment and/or credits must have been completed between 7/1/2006 and 6/30/2011). Submit a completed PI-1613 Employment Verification form or original transcripts (or grade reports) verifying coursework to DPI with the PI-1602-IS form and fee.
2. There are no professional growth requirements for a five-year substitute license. To apply for a five-year substitute license, submit the PI-1602-IS form and fee.
3. If a Wisconsin school district wishes to employ you prior to completing the six semester credits, you may be eligible for a one-year non-renewable license. Attach a district request verifying employment for current school year with the PI-1602-IS form and fee.

Related Resources

Certifying Officers - Public Universities
Certifying Officers - Private Colleges/Universities
Index of Approved Programs for Licensing of School Personnel in Wisconsin.
5-year Substitute Teaching License
Fingerprint Cards

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Contact institutions directly for endorsement questions and course offerings. Other questions about certification and licensure may be directed to Educator Licensing

Last updated on 12/23/2010 3:36:32 PM