Wisconsin Driver License

You must obtain a Wisconsin driver license if you want to drive legally on Wisconsin public highways. You can apply for a driving license to the local DMV or just fill in the application online.

Your application for a driver’s license in Wisconsin

In order to obtain your driver’s license, you must first apply for an instruction permit. All the applicants that are under 18, must complete the state’s graduated driving license (GDL) program. Generally, it is a 30 hours training to upgrade your driving skills.

During your application for an instruction permit, an adult sponsor must accompany you. In order to be eligible for an instruction permit, the applicants must either study at school or have recently graduated from high school.  You must also pay a fee of 35$.

When you hold an instruction permit someone with a valid license and two years of driving experience should be with you. It can be one of your parents or someone who is at least 21 years old.

Your instruction permit is valid for 12 months. You can renew your instruction permit whenever you need to practice.

If you already have your instruction permit, you’ve accomplished the first stage; the next step is to gain enough road experience to acquire your probationary license.

A probationary license is a scaled-down version of a full driver’s license. You’ll need to complete an application form for a driver’s license, bring your Social Security Number and proof of identity and residency.

When you meet all these requirements, you’ll be requested to take a behind-the-wheel driving abilities exam.

Because probationary license holders are inexperienced drivers, they are subject to stringent restrictions. They should not drive alone between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m. and carry more than a passenger (in case of not immediate family members). You can ride as many immediate family members as you want. Whenever you turn 18, you can apply for a full Wisconsin driver’s license.

Wisconsin Driver License Requirements

You can apply for a Driver’s License if you are at least 18 years old. You must just meet the following requirements:

• Bring proof of Identity
• Social Security Number
• Provide proof of residency
• Pass the knowledge and vision tests
• Successful road test
• Pay required fees

You can apply for your Wisconsin driver’s license either online or in-person by visiting Wisconsin DMV.

Fees for a Wisconsin driver’s license vary based on the license type.

If you have just moved to Wisconsin from another country, you must apply for a Wisconsin driver’s license in 30 days. The applicants who previously held a Wisconsin driver’s license and are returning can apply for a license duplicate or renewal. If you hold a driver’s license from another state, you must get it transferred to Wisconsin within 60 days after becoming a resident. You’ll need to bring your existing out-of-state driver’s license, pass a vision test, and pay the required fees. You must pass a knowledge exam, a highway sign identification test, and a driving skills test if you have not had a valid driver’s license in more than 8 years.

Wisconsin Driver License Renewal

Your driver’s license expires every 8 years on your birthday. When only 45 to 80 days remain to the expiration date, Wisconsin DMV will send you a notice. You can renew your driver’s license online or in person. You just need to bring your previous license or proof of identity. Then, you will have your photo taken. Local DMV organizes a vision test, medical check-up, and a written exam. Your driver’s license renewal fee is $34.

If you are a commercial driver, you must show proof of your legal status in the United States. You’ll also have to have your commercial tier of operation certified.

Wisconsin Driver License Types

You can apply to Wisconsin DMV to obtain the following licenses:

• Commercial Class A/B/C licenses permit the operation of any combination of vehicles with 26,000 lbs. Class C permits as well to transport 16 passengers and hazardous materials.
• The most common license is Class D that permits to drive any motor vehicle not included in Class A, B, C, or M.
• Class M permits to drive a motorcycle.

How much should I pay for my driver’s test?

In order to pass a driving test in Wisconsin, you need to pay 15 dollars.

What is the purpose of the Wisconsin driving log?

When holding an instruction permit, drivers in the graduated driver’s license (GDL) program will be required to fill out the Wisconsin driving log. It is a part of your supervised driving practice obligations. Before taking your road test, your parents or legal guardians will generally need to complete and submit a driving record.

Should I have to go to driving school to get my license in Wisconsin?

If you’re under the age of 18, you must attend a driving school or receive driver’s instruction in Wisconsin. Driver’s training will either be offered as part of your driver’s education course or will be an additional course that you must enroll in. If you need to go to driving school to acquire your license, the course will last six hours and include six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction and six hours of observation.

What can I do if I have lost my driver’s license?

In case you have lost your driver’s license or someone has stolen it, you can apply for DMV to replace it. When visiting your local DMV You just need to provide proof of identity.

You can as well apply for a replacement if you have changed your address or name. You will not be able to get a duplicate of your driving license, permit, or ID card if it has expired or is soon to expire. It is necessary for you to renew it.

If you are a Wisconsin resident and are out of state at the moment you need to replace your license, you may be able to apply for a replacement online. Your new license will be delivered to your temporary address.  And in case you are not allowed to apply online, you can mail your request.

Is it necessary for me to have my own vehicle driving skills test?

Yes. You must have the vehicle with you on your exam day. Pay attention to the condition of your vehicle before you go to the DMV. It must be in good condition.

What should I do if failed the driving skills test?

You can take the driving skills test five times a year. Before you may repeat the test, you must first demonstrate that you have received extra instruction and training.

How much must I score to pass my knowledge test?

In order to pass your knowledge test, you must at least have 40 right answers of 50. You can take the knowledge test up to five times each year. You have the option of taking the test again the next day.

Most DMV service locations use a computer touch screen to give the written knowledge test and the highway signs test. The test includes multiple-choice questions about Wisconsin traffic rules and highway traffic signs.

To pass each test, you must properly answer 20 of the 25 questions. You can pass your tests in the following languages: English, Chinese, Hmong, Polish, Russian, Serbo-Croatian, Somali, and Spanish.