, you must be 16 years of age or older and be able to show proof of residency with a valid ID to receive a driver’s license. Before obtaining the license, you’ll need to enroll in a driver's education course, get an instructional permit, pass a road test, and pay the required fees.

The process of getting a driver’s license varies from state to state and can get complicated and time-consuming. No need to stress, though! We're here with everything you need to know about Wisconsin driver’s license requirements.

What are the requirements for a driver’s license in Wisconsin?

To be eligible to receive a driver’s license in Wisconsin, you must be 16 years of age or older. You will also need to present the following documents to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT):

Primary identification: US birth certificate, US passport, certificate of naturalization, certificate of citizenship, or valid alien registration receipt card (such as a green card)

Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form, paycheck including your complete SSN, 1099 form, or military ID

Proof of residency

: a mortgage statement, lease agreement, Wisconsin voter registration card, car insurance bill, W-2 or 1099 form, utility bill, or a letter from a homeless shelter or halfway house

For a comprehensive list of acceptable documents based on your immigration and citizenship status, go to the

WisDOT website

Be aware that if you have a medical condition that could affect your driving, such as cataracts or diabetes, you are required to disclose it on the application. You may need a medical report form from your doctor.

MORE:

Wisconsin license plates

What are the requirements for young drivers?

If you’re under the age of 18, you will need consent from a legal guardian. If you’re under the age of 15, you must hold a

Wisconsin learner's permit

for six months. If you are 16 years or older, you only need to hold the instructional permit for seven days.

Drivers under the age of 18 will also need the following:

Enrolment in a certified driver education course

A Wisconsin Driver License Application MV3001 signed by the driving instructor

The first behind-the-wheel lesson completed within 60 days of receiving the signature

Enrolment in a school program or high school equivalency program (or graduated from high school) with a good attendance record

What are the requirements for out-of-state drivers?

You can legally drive in the state of Wisconsin with a valid driver's license from any state. However, you’ll need to apply for a Wisconsin license within 30 days of establishing residency there.

This process includes having your photo taken, completing a Driver License Application MV3001, passing a vision and hearing test, and paying the required fees. You’ll also have to surrender your old license and disclose any medical conditions. In most cases, a written or road test is not required.

How to get a driver’s license in Wisconsin

For new drivers: enroll in a certified drivers education program

As a new driver in Wisconsin, you’ll need to take a certified driver's education course. The program includes 30 hours of classroom instruction, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel driving, and 6 hours of in-car observation time.

Vision test

To ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers, you’ll need to be able to see the road with clarity.

Wisconsin requires you to have at least 20/40 vision and 70-degree field of vision, otherwise, you’ll be referred to an eye doctor. If you have corrective lenses, the minimum requirement is 20/100 or better and 20-degree field of vision in at least one eye.

Knowledge exam

After you’ve taken the certified driver’s education course and vision test, you will need to pass the Class D Knowledge Exam. This exam is 50 questions and covers Wisconsin’s traffic laws, road safety practices, and road signs. The best way to prepare for the exam is by using the

Wisconsin Motorist Handbook

You will need to score an 80% or higher by answering at least 40 out of the 50 questions correctly to pass the Class D Knowledge Exam.

Road test

Finally, it’s time to hop in the driver’s seat and prove you’re skills and knowledge as a safe driver. You can schedule your road test through the

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

. Be sure to bring your own vehicle to your appointment and make sure it has the following:

A working horn, brakes, tires, steering wheels, turn signals, rear-view mirrors, and brake lights

Working windshield wipers, headlights, and seatbelts

A valid license plate

Enough fuel

Clear visibility through all windows

Bring all the required documents with you to the Wisconsin driving test. Below is what you’ll need to be prepared for during your exam:

A three-point turn

Approaching an intersection

Observe right of way

Parking in standard conditions and on a hill

A quick stop from 20 mph

Moving in reverse for about 50 feet

Signaling, turning, and passing

Staying in your lane

The examiner will watch to see how accurately you respond to traffic signals and signs. Additionally, you will be assessed on how closely you follow other cars and your posture while driving.

Upon passing your road test, you’ll present the required documents, pay a $35 fee, and then receive your official Wisconsin driver’s license! You’ll get a provisional license on the day you pass your exam and will receive the official license in a couple of weeks by mail.

MORE:

How to replace a lost Wisconsin driver’s license

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FAQs

What do I need for a Wisconsin driver’s license?

You will need a valid form of identification, your social security number or equivalent document, and proof of address to obtain a Wisconsin driver’s license.

How much does it cost to get a Wisconsin driver’s license?

It will cost you $35 for a non-commercial Wisconsin driver’s license.

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