If you are a new resident to Wisconsin, go to the new resident webpage for information on everything you need.
If you do not have license plates for a vehicle titled in your name (never had plates, or the plates were transferred to another vehicle) you must apply for new plates to operate the vehicle. See
replacement plates if your plates were lost, stolen or damaged.
View list of
special license plates that can be applied for through this online application.
Before you get started:
- You must be the owner or lessee of the vehicle to apply for license plates.
- Must be an individual, not a business.
- Review the
restrictions page to check whether this online service will work for you.
- A certificate of registration with your new license plate number will be emailed to you. Please keep it with you when operating the vehicle.
- Please check your vehicle title to see if the body style on the title shows ‘UNKNOWN’ (see example). If so, please contact the Wisconsin DMV by using the below email before using this system. Include the title number or VIN.
Apply online
Have these ready:
INDIVIDUAL (TYPE CUSTOMER)
- Your Wisconsin Driver License or ID Card number
- The last 4 digits of your Social Security number
- Your date of birth
OR
- Your full name
- Your complete Social Security number
- Your date of birth
NON-INDIVIDUAL (TYPE CUSTOMER)
- Full legal business name
- Zip code
- FEIN
AND
A printer with 8.5 by 11-inch paper to print a certificate of registration and temporary license plate, when applicable
A valid email address to send your Certificate of Registration to.
- You will receive your Certificate of Registration from emvpublic@dot.wi.gov
- If the email is not found in your email inbox, you may want to check your junk/spam folder.
The vehicle identification number (VIN) for the vehicle found
on the vehicle
Payment Information
- Credit/debit card (convenience fee applies) or
- Checking/savings account and avoid the
convenience fee
You should receive license plate(s) and expiration stickers in the mail within four weeks after completing the online application.
Click the ‘START NOW’ button below to get started.
Start Now
Once the online transaction is completed, you cannot cancel it or receive a refund. Verify that you have entered the information correctly before completing payment information.
This service may not be available on Sundays from 6 a.m.–9 a.m. due to regular system maintenance.
Apply by mail
Have these ready:
- A printer with 8.5 by 11-inch paper to print off the required documents
- A completed Wisconsin Title and License Plate Application (MV1). Use this online
MV1 Application to pre-fill the application and calculate fees or download
MV1. Included will be a summary sheet explaining how to submit all documents and payment. This form must be signed by the current owner on record.
- Payment information
- Make check or money order (do not send cash made payable to: Registration Fee Trust
-
Send to:
WI Dept. of Transportation
P.O. Box 7949
Madison, WI 53707-7949
Note: If applying for personalized plates or plates that require approval or eligibility verification (e.g. Military, Firefighter, Operating Engineer, Collector/Hobbyist). Please submit the appropriate application and fees by mail for these plates. See
Special plates for specific plate requirements and applications.
Apply in person
Have these ready:
- Driver license/identification card as proof of identity
- Payment for your license plates
- In addition, there is a $5 counter service fee
- Payment options
For faster service:
OR
- Download, complete and bring the
MV1 application. Instructions on how to complete and calculate fees are included.
Find your closest DMV Service Center
DMV customer how-to video guides will help you complete each section of the MV1 form.