Wisconsin DMV Official Government Site - Application for a driver license

How to get your WI driver license

(en español)

In Wisconsin, you can either have a driver license or an ID card, not both.

To get an ID Card (it cannot be used for driving): Obtain an identification (ID) card
If you already have a Wisconsin driver license:

For driver license requirements, select the category below that describes you.

Teen driver (ages 15-17)

Visit our Teen Driver page for steps to get your first driver license.

New resident (ages 15 and older)

Welcome to Wisconsin!

You are considered a Wisconsin resident if any of these apply:

Your principal residence is in this state
You pay your income taxes here
You are registered to vote here

Timeframes to apply for a WI driver license or ID after establishing residence:

Within 60 days for a regular license
Within 30 days for a Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Information on obtaining a driver license with an out-of-state license.

For more information visit our New Resident page.

First driver license (ages 18 and older)

If you have never held a driver license in Wisconsin or anywhere else, you must:

Study the Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook
Pass the knowledge and signs tests at a DMV service center and have your photo taken (no appointment needed) for issuance of an Instruction Permit
Hold an Instruction Permit (Temps) for at least seven days
After at least seven days of holding an Instruction Permit (Temps), you will need to pass a road test at a DMV service center (an appointment is needed)

What to expect at the DMV:

For each trip to the DMV service center, you must complete the Wisconsin Driver License Application (MV3001).

For faster service, pre-fill and print a completed (MV3001)

You will have your photo taken
You will need to pass a vision test
Bring the following documents:

Proof of U.S. citizenship, legal permanent resident status, conditional resident status or temporary visitor status
Proof of name and date of birth
Proof of identity
Proof of Wisconsin residency
Proof of name change (if your name is different than what’s on your birth certificate, this is needed for each name change)
Provide your Social Security number (you can fulfill your proof of identity requirement by presenting your Social Security card)

Pay the appropriate driver licensing fees

After you pass the road test, you will leave the DMV service center with your driving receipt that can be used to drive with immediately. Your Probationary Driver License will arrive by mail within 10 days.

For more information: