USA Wisconsin Driver License

Wisconsin Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to get a Wisconsin Driver’s License? Whether you’re a first-time driver, moving from out of state, or need to renew your license, this comprehensive guide from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) covers everything you need to know.

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How to Get a Wisconsin Driver’s License

Step 1: Choose the Right License Type
Most people apply for a Class D license, which allows you to operate a regular passenger vehicle. Special types (like Class M for motorcycles or CDL for commercial vehicles) have additional requirements.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for a new license, bring:

• Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. birth certificate, valid passport)
• Proof of legal presence
• Social Security number (or ineligibility documentation)
• Two documents showing Wisconsin residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)

Step 3: Pass Required Tests
New drivers must:

• Pass a vision screening
• Take a written knowledge test (unless exempt)
• Complete a driving skills test (road test)

Applicants under 18 must also:

• Complete an approved driver education course
• Hold an instruction permit for at least 6 months
• Log 30+ hours of supervised driving (10 hours at night)

Step 4: Receive Your License
After passing all required tests, you’ll receive a temporary paper license. Your official photo ID will arrive by mail within 10 business days.

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New Wisconsin Residents: Transfer an Out-of-State License

If you’ve moved to Wisconsin, you must transfer your out-of-state license within 60 days (or 30 days for commercial drivers).
Bring:

• Your current out-of-state license (not expired more than 8 years)
• Required identity, SSN, and residency documents
• Pass a vision screening
• Written and road tests may be waived (case-by-case)

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Renewing a Wisconsin Driver’s License

Most Wisconsin driver’s licenses are valid for 8 years and can be renewed:

• Online through the WisDOT portal
• By mail (if eligible)
• In person at a DMV customer service center

Renewal requires:

• Updated vision test (in some cases)
• New photo (in person)

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Wisconsin REAL ID

Starting May 7, 2025, the federal REAL ID is required for domestic flights and entry to certain federal facilities.
Wisconsin’s REAL ID has a gold star in the upper-right corner.

To upgrade to a REAL ID:

• Visit a DMV in person
• Provide proof of identity, SSN, and two Wisconsin residency documents
• No additional fee if done at the time of renewal

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Wisconsin DMV Fees (2025)

Service	Fee (Approx.)
Original Class D License	$34
Probationary License (under 18)	$28
License Renewal (8 years)	$34
Instruction Permit	$35
Duplicate License	$14
REAL ID Upgrade	Included at renewal

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Required Documents Checklist

• Proof of name and date of birth (e.g., passport, birth certificate)
• Social Security number (SSN card or tax document)
• Two proofs of Wisconsin residency
• Legal presence (if applicable)

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Wisconsin DMV Services

• License issuance, replacement, and renewal
• Road and knowledge tests
• Instruction permits and teen driver programs
• Out-of-state license transfers
• REAL ID upgrades
• Name and address changes

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For appointments and the latest requirements, visit the official Wisconsin DMV website.