​(en español)

The interactive driver licensing guide is a helpful tool for those looking for information on driver licensing requirements. The guide will provide you with a checklist of requirements, and allow you to pre-fill any required application(s). Depending on your eligibility you may also be able to use the guide to electronically submit your application and schedule an appointment with the DMV for expedited service.

Note: Driver licenses and IDs are now mailed to your home. See Mailing Wisconsin driver licenses and ID cards​ ("central issuance") for more information.​

It's necessary to meet the licensing requirements​. Complete Wisconsin Driver License application MV3001 including:

• Your Social security number (SSN) - if you have one.
• If you are under age 18, complete the section of the application for applicants under age 18 (applicant, school and sponsorship certifications).
• Answer the medical questions. For some medical conditions, you will be asked to have your doctor provide medical information.
• If you are applying for a commercial driver license, complete the section of the application for commercial driver applicants.

Note: Carefully read the instructions at the top of the application for information about which sections you need to complete for the type of license for which you are applying.

• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship, legal permanent resident status, conditional resident status or temporary visitor status.
• Provide proof of name and date of birth, for example, a certified U.S. birth certificate, valid passport or certificate of naturalization.
• Provide proof of identity (an acceptable document with your signature or photograph such as an unexpired state ID card or your social security card).
• Provide proof of Wisconsin residency if over 18.​

Note: Hospital birth certificates or baptismal certificates are not acceptable. Get a copy of your birth certificate at your Register of Deeds or city health office.

See more information on acceptable identification documents.

Pass the knowledge, vision, and driving skills tests:

• New Wisconsin residents with an out-of-state driver license (which is valid or expired less than 8 years) may be able to get a Wisconsin license without taking the knowledge or driving skills tests.
• CDL license holders with a hazardous materials (H) endorsement must pass the hazardous materials knowledge test and may require fingerprinting​.
• CDL license holders with a school bus (S) endorsement must pass the school bus knowledge test, the pre-trip and a driving skills test.

If you apply for a Wisconsin driver license and have an OWI-type conviction in another state, you will need to provide proof that you have undergone an assessment and completed an alcohol program. This law applies even if you have met all the requirements in the state where you were convicted of OWI.

For further information about license examinations, identification documents and current fees, ask at your local DMV customer service center. DMV customer service centers accept cash, checks, debit cards and the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. For online transactions, we accept most credit and debit cards and ACH (Automated Clearing House) from your checking or savings account.

​For more information

• Change of address​
• Check eligibility to reinstate your driving privilege
• Handbooks and manuals
• New residents
• Request for a Birth Certificate (Dept. of Health Services)​
• Social Security online verification (SSOLV)​