The Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) has announced a significant development that will take effect from July 11 in Wisconsin. DSPS, which oversees various trades exams for initial licensing, will now be offering these exams in Spanish. This step aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency in their credentialing process.
According to Dan Hereth, the Secretary-designee of DSPS, the organization has been diligently working on improvements to streamline the certification process. By providing trades exams in Spanish, DSPS aims to invest in Wisconsin’s workforce by giving individuals seeking certification in the trades another viable option.
Out of the 240 credentials issued by DSPS, the majority involve an exam for initial licensing. While some professions collaborate with third-party partners for conducting tests, DSPS itself administers most trades exams, including plumbing and welding. With the new change, 40 trades exams will be available in Spanish, broadening the opportunities for Spanish-speaking individuals to join the workforce in Wisconsin.
Interested applicants can access a list of licensed trades professions on the DSPS website and obtain a specific application form for their chosen profession. To request a Spanish language examination, applicants simply need to check a designated box on the application form.
DSPS typically conducts two trades testing events each month at various locations throughout the state. These paper-based exams are proctored in-person, and all 40 exams will be available for taking during each testing event. The length of the exams varies, and some candidates may choose to register and sit for multiple exams. Detailed information about exam scheduling and dates can be found through DSPS resources.
Dan Hereth expressed his satisfaction with the successful implementation of Spanish exams, recognizing the effort put forth by the team to facilitate Spanish-speaking workers in Wisconsin to take their exams, complete their license applications, and progress in their respective fields.
As an organization, DSPS holds responsibility for more than 240 distinct licenses, overseeing multiple boards and councils that regulate various professions, enforcing state building codes, and maintaining the Wisconsin Enhanced Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.