Wisconsin

If you're simply visiting Wisconsin, you can drive with your out-of-state license throughout your stay, as long as you maintain residency elsewhere. If you establish residency within the state, you must exchange your out-of-state license for a Wisconsin driver's license within 60 days.

No, you must exchange your out-of-state permit for a Wisconsin permit.

If you have an unrestricted out-of-state driver's license, you do not need to pass the road test if it's currently valid/unexpired for no longer than 8 years. If it has expired for 8 years or longer, you must take both the knowledge and skills tests.

If you have a graduated/teen license from another state, you may not need to pass the road test if all of the following are true:

• Your out-of-state unrestricted driver's license is currently valid/unexpired.
• You've held your license for at least 6 months.
• You completed GDL requirements in your previous state, including completion of a driver's education program, that equal or exceed those required in Wisconsin.

Yes, you will need to take a vision screening if you renew in person. If you're eligible to renew online, you won't need to repeat a vision test.

You can renew by mail if your notice gives you the option. Generally, the DMV encourages you to renew online or in person.

Most drivers can renew online, and the DMV highly encourages you to do so if you're eligible. Your renewal notice will state whether you are eligible for online renewal.

To renew online, you do not need any specific documents, but you will need to provide information pertaining to your identity and license status, plus valid payment information. This includes:

• Your first and last name as it appears on your current driver's license.
• Your date of birth.
• Your street address.
• Your driver's license number.
• Your Social Security number.

You'll also need payment for the $34 renewal fee.

To renew in person, you will need:

• Your current driver's license.
• Additional proofs of identity and residency, if you are upgrading to a REAL ID.
• Proof of any name change, if applicable.
• A completed Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001).
  • The interactive driver's license guide can help determine the appropriate documents you'll need, pre-fill your application, and schedule your appointment with the DMV.

Yes all new drivers, regardless of age, must obtain an instruction permit in Wisconsin before being eligible for an unrestricted driver's license.

If you fail your first driving test attempt, you'll need to wait between 1-14 days before retesting, depending on the type of license you're testing for. Your examiner will let you know your next steps. Practice the skills you failed with your supervising driver until you're able to come back for a retest.

You'll need to wait between 1 and 14 days before you can retake your WI road test, depending on your license type.

Your teen should be insured once they're licensed and begin driving on their own (i.e., without another supervising licensed driver). Teens with learner's permits don't yet require insurance while they're driving under the supervision of a licensed adult.

If you have an instruction permit:

• You must have a licensed supervising driver with at least 2 years of driving experience in the front seat at all times. This person can be:
  • A driving instructor who is at least 19 years old.
  • A parent/guardian or spouse who is at least 19 years old.
    • In this situation, you may drive with other members of your immediate family as your passengers. If you're 16 years old or older, you can also have one non-family member, licensed for at least 2 years, who is at least 25 years old in the car with you (in addition to your supervising driver).
  • A licensed adult at least 21 years old who has been designated in writing by your parent/guardian
    • In this situation, you may NOT drive with any other passengers.
• If you're driving at night, your supervising driver must be at least 25 years old and licensed with at least 2 years of driving experience.

If you have a probationary license:

For the first 9 months:

• If you're driving between 5:00 AM and midnight:
  • You may drive without supervision.
  • You may carry any member of your immediate family as your passenger(s).
  • Non-family members are restricted to one person who has been licensed for at least 2 years (non-probationary) and is at least 21 years old (or 19 years if they're a driving instructor), plus one other person of any age and license status (only if the first licensed driver is also in the car).
• If you're driving between midnight and 5:00 AM:
  • You may only drive alone if you're traveling to/from work, school, or home. You also may carry the same passengers listed above.
  • If you're driving anywhere outside of work, school, or home, you MUST be accompanied by your parent/guardian or a licensed driver (at least 2 years) who is at least 21 years old. You can carry any immediate family member(s) plus one other person as passengers.

Once you pass your road test, you'll receive a temporary probationary license until your photo license arrives in the mail.

• Instruction permit: $7.50
• Skills exam: $15
• Probationary license: $28
• Unrestricted/original Class D license: $34

Ask your examiner before your test whether you are allowed a supervising driver with you in the vehicle.

No. The knowledge test is a prerequisite to taking your road test. Once you have passed the knowledge test, you do not need to take it again to get your license.

You should be prepared to do the following during your road test:

• Properly adjust the seat, mirrors, steering wheel, and seat belts.
• Operate vehicle equipment such as windshield wipers and washers, heater and defroster, parking brake, headlights, and the horn.
• Respond to traffic control signs and signals.
• Interact with other motorists (e.g., yielding right-of-way correctly, responding to emergency vehicles).
• Back up and park your vehicle.
• Display proficiency in basic driving skills such as stopping and turning.
• Recognize any warning lights that may appear on your instrument panel.
• Execute other driving maneuvers as the inspector requires.

The biggest tip is to study the Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook! Everything you need to know to pass your skills exam is in the guide.

A licensed driver may bring you to your driving test.

The vehicle you use for your road test must meet the following standards:

• It should be appropriate for the license class for which you are applying.
• It should have a valid registration certificate.
• It should have proof of insurance.
• It should comply with WI laws regarding tinted windows.
• It should not have an Ignition Interlock Device (unless you are required by law to use one).

The road test will not be conducted if the vehicle is deemed to be unsafe. Common reasons why vehicles are deemed unsafe include the following:

• The windows are illegally tinted.
• The brake lights or turn signals are defective.
• The tires are worn or damaged.
• One or more lug nuts are missing.
• A seatbelt is defective.
• The speedometer is defective.
• The brakes are defective.
• Other equipment is defective or missing.

Road tests are administered at DMV customer service centers throughout the state.

Make an appointment with your chosen customer service center.

After passing your WI permit exam, the next steps differ by your age:

If you're under 18 years old, you'll need to:

• Hold your permit for at least 6 months.
• Complete your state-approved driver education course (including your behind-the-wheel instruction hours).
• Complete at least 30 hours of driving practice with your parent/guardian, with at least 10 hours being driven at night.

Once the above requirements have been met, you can take your road skills exam for your intermediate license.

If you're over 18 years old, you'll need to hold your permit for at least 7 days and practice driving until you feel confident enough behind the wheel to take your road test.

You must have a licensed supervising driver with at least 2 years of driving experience in the front seat at all times. This person can be:

• A driving instructor who is at least 19 years old.
• A parent/guardian or spouse who is at least 19 years old.
  • In this situation, you may drive with other members of your immediate family as your passengers.
  • You can also have one non-family member, licensed for at least 2 years, who is at least 25 years old in the car with you (in addition to your supervising driver).
• Another licensed adult at least 21 years old.

If you fail your exam, you'll receive instructions on how and when you'll be allowed to retest.

If you fail your exam, you'll receive instructions on how and when you'll be allowed to retest.

No, there is no drug test involved.

No. If you're worried about passing the knowledge test, try taking some of our free practice tests to help you prepare.

If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must accompany you to co-sign your application to give their consent. If you are over 18 years old, no one needs to accompany you for your permit exam.

• Instruction permit: $7.50
• Skills exam: $15
• Probationary license: $28
• Unrestricted/original Class D license: $34

Bring the following items to the DMV customer service center:

• Your certified Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001). Your parent/guardian or adult sponsor must cosign this application at the DMV in front of the agent.
• Proof of your:
  • Identity and citizenship/legal presence.
  • Wisconsin residency.
  • Social Security number.
• Payment for your $35 instruction permit fee.

You can apply for your permit once you're at least 15 years old.

To get your permit if you're under 18 years old:

• You must be within 60 days of beginning your behind-the-wheel training portion (if you haven't yet finished your classroom course). Your Driver's Ed instructor must certify your Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001) no more than 60 days out from starting your behind-the-wheel instruction.
• Make an appointment at your local DMV customer service center.
• Submit your:
  • Certified Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001). Your parent/guardian or adult sponsor must cosign this application at the DMV in front of the agent.
  • Proof of your:
    • Identity and citizenship/legal presence.
    • Wisconsin residency.
    • Social Security number.
• Pass a vision screening.
• Pass the written knowledge and road signs exams.
• Pay the $35 instruction permit fee.

To get your permit if you're 18 years old or older:

• Submit a completed Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001).
• Provide proof of your:
  • Identity and legal presence.
  • Social Security number.
  • Name change, if you've ever legally changed your name.
  • Wisconsin residency.
• Pass the written knowledge and road signs exams.
• Undergo a vision screening.
• Have your photo taken.
• Pay the $35 instruction permit fee.

You can take your knowledge test at any DMV customer service center.

Some examples of potential questions include:

You must use your headlights:

1. At all times
2. Between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise
3. Only during poor weather

The maximum posted speed limit on highways is:

1. 55 MPH
2. 60 MPH
3. 65 MPH

If the roadway is wet or icy you should:

1. Follow the posted speed limit
2. Reduce your speed
3. Speed up

Find more sample questions on a free Wisconsin practice test.

If you're under 18 years old, you must minimally be enrolled in a Driver's Ed course to earn your permit.

The Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook is available online and at your DMV office.

The Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook has everything you need to pass your permit test. It's also a good idea to use a free practice test to get ready for the testing format and prepare yourself for the actual experience of taking the exam.

Once you pass your road test, you'll receive your WI driver's license in the mail.

No, your photo will be taken at the regional DMV office where you apply.

Yes, your vision test occurs during your permit and/or license application.

No, a physical exam isn't required for a WI permit.

If you are under 18 years old, your parent or guardian must accompany you to co-sign your permit application and provide their consent. If you are 18 or older, no one needs to accompany you other than the supervising driver who drove you to the DMV office.

You can contact your local DMV office by phone. You can contact the state Division of Motor Vehicles by phone or email.

You can apply at any local DMV office.

Examples of proof of legal presence include your original birth certificate or your valid U.S. passport.

To apply for your Wisconsin driver's license when you're at least 18 years old, you'll need:

• Your instruction permit.
• Proof of registration and insurance for your testing vehicle.
• Proof of your:
  • Identity and legal presence.
  • Social Security number.
  • Name change, if applicable.
  • Wisconsin residency.
• Payment for the $15 road test fee and $28 probationary license fee.

You'll need:

• Your instruction permit.
• Either:
  • A road test waiver; or
  • Proof of registration and insurance for your testing vehicle.
• A completed Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001), with your parent/guardian certifying you completed your 30 required practice hours.
• Proof of your:
  • Identity and legal presence.
  • Social Security number.
  • Wisconsin residency.
• Proof of completion for your driver's education course, unless your school submitted it electronically to the DMV.
• Payment for the $15 testing fee and $28 probationary license fee.

You can apply once you're 15 years old.

If you hold a learner's permit of any type:

• You must have a licensed supervising driver with at least 2 years of driving experience in the front seat at all times. This person can be:
  • A driving instructor who is at least 19 years old.
  • A parent/guardian or spouse who is at least 19 years old.
    • In this situation, you may drive with other members of your immediate family as your passengers. If you're 16 years old or older, you can also have one non-family member, licensed for at least 2 years, who is at least 25 years old in the car with you (in addition to your supervising driver).
  • A licensed adult at least 21 years old
    • If you're under 18 years old, they must be designated in writing by your parent/guardian.
    • In this situation, you may NOT drive with any other passengers.
• If you're driving at night, your supervising driver must be at least 25 years old and licensed with at least 2 years of driving experience.

If you hold a probationary license:

If you're under 18 years old, you must adhere to the following for the first 9 months:

• If you're driving between 5:00 AM and midnight:
  • You may drive without supervision.
  • You may carry any member of your immediate family as your passenger(s).
  • Non-family members are restricted to one person who has been licensed for at least 2 years (non-probationary) and is at least 21 years old (or 19 years if they're a driving instructor), plus one other person of any age and license status (only if the first licensed driver is also in the car).
• If you're driving between midnight and 5:00 AM:
  • You may only drive alone if you're traveling to/from work, school, or home. You also may carry the same passengers listed above.
  • If you're driving anywhere outside of work, school, or home, you MUST be accompanied by your parent/guardian or a licensed driver (at least 2 years) who is at least 21 years old. You can carry any immediate family member(s) plus one other person as passengers.

If you're 18 years old or older, there are no probationary license restrictions.

You can get a probationary driver's license once you're at least 16 years old and you've completed your required practice hours or a state-approved driver education course. Otherwise, you can get your license when you turn 18 years old.

• You must have a licensed supervising driver with at least 2 years of driving experience in the front seat at all times. This person can be:
  • A driving instructor who is at least 19 years old.
  • A parent/guardian or spouse who is at least 19 years old.
    • In this situation, you may drive with other members of your immediate family as your passengers. If you're 16 years old or older, you can also have one non-family member, licensed for at least 2 years, who is at least 25 years old in the car with you (in addition to your supervising driver).
  • A licensed adult at least 21 years old
    • If you're under 18 years old, they must be designated in writing by your parent/guardian.
    • In this situation, you may NOT drive with any other passengers.
• If you're driving at night, your supervising driver must be at least 25 years old and licensed with at least 2 years of driving experience.

You may begin practicing with your parents right away.

You'll need a completed Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001), which you can begin ahead of time online.

To get your learner's permit, you must pass a knowledge test, road signs test, and a vision exam. To get your driver's license, you must also pass an on-road driving skills test, unless you qualify for a waiver.

Applicants under 18 years old must complete a state-approved driver education course that consists of:

• 30 hours of classroom instruction.
• 6 hours of in-car instruction.
• 6 hours of in-car observation.

Additionally, you must complete at least 30 hours of driving practice with your adult supervisor, including 10 hours at night.

To obtain your permit, you must be enrolled in (or have completed) a state-approved driver's education course and be no more than 60 days out from your behind-the-wheel training portion. Your instructor must certify your permit application. You must also be at least 15 years old.

To apply for your WI instruction permit, you must:

• Be at least 15 years old.
• Pass the written knowledge exam and road signs test.
• Submit:
  • Your certified Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001). Your parent/guardian or adult sponsor must cosign this application at the DMV in front of the agent.
  • Proof of your:
    • Identity and citizenship/legal presence.
    • Wisconsin residency.
    • Social Security number.
• Pass a vision screening.
• Pay the $35 permit fee.

To apply for a WI probationary license, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have earned your learner's permit and held it for at least 6 months.
• Complete your state-approved driver's education course.
• Complete at least 30 hours of behind-the-wheel practice.
• Pass the driving skills road test, unless you qualify for a waiver.

To apply for a license as an adult in Wisconsin, you must:

• Pass the knowledge skills exam and earn an instruction permit.
• Practice with your permit for at least 7 days.
• Pass the driving skills road test.

You can take your road test once you are at least 16 years old and you have:

• Earned your learner's permit and held it for at least:
  • 6 months, if you're under 18 years old.
  • 7 days, if you're 18 or older.
• Completed your driver's education course and behind-the-wheel practice hours, if you're under 18 years old.

You can renew your WI driver's license online, in person, and possibly by mail. Your renewal notice will state which option(s) you're eligible for.

Driver's licenses in Wisconsin expire every 8 years. You can renew it up to 1 year before its expiration date.

Standard licenses cost $34 to renew. Instruction permits cost $35 to renew.

You must obtain a Wisconsin license within 60 days of establishing residency in the state.

No, you must take your exam in person at a licensing center.

You can take the knowledge exam up to 5 times in one year.

Yes.

Have your glasses or contact lenses, if you need them, as well as all of your required proofs of identity plus payment for your $35 permit application fee. If you're under 18 years old, you'll need your certified application stating your Driver's Ed enrollment, and have your parent or guardian there to sign your application.

The Wisconsin permit exam will test you on topics such as road signs, state driving laws, right-of-way procedures, driving safety requirements, and more. You can find examples of topics in the Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook, as well as on free practice tests to help you prepare for your exam.

No, tests are conducted on a walk-in basis. No appointments are necessary.

Contact your local DMV customer service center to see if it has any Saturday openings.

You may be able to apply for an occupational license, which allows you to drive solely for specific purposes like education or employment.

Requirements will vary based on your personal circumstances and why your license was initially suspended. You can check your eligibility at the DMV's website.

You can request an occupational license by:

• Confirming your eligibility.
• Submitting a completed:
  • Application for Occupational Operator License (form MV3027).
  • Driver License (DL) Application (form MV3001).
• Providing proof of your:
  • Identity and legal presence.
  • SR-22 insurance.
• Passing any required tests.
• Paying the $50 occupational license fee.

Your restriction period will vary based on a number of factors, including your specific violation or reason for restriction, and whether it's a first offense or you have a repeated history of offenses.

Your test will be conducted on a computer at the DMV office.