Get your first driver's license in Wisconsin

Online or in person

Start online with the application · At least two visitsThe DMV's online appointment scheduler lets you book the visit, pre-fill applications and submit them electronically if eligible. The online knowledge test is for ages 15-17 only. Road tests are scheduled online. One visit to a DMV service center for the instruction permit, then the road test by appointment. Road test appointments fill up quickly; most centers book 8 to 11 weeks ahead.

Cost

$35 permit + $28 probationary licenseKnowledge and sign tests are $0 on the fee page; the online knowledge test for ages 15-17 has a $10 fee per test, pass or fail. The Class D skills exam is $15; the fee page says it is "charged for every appointment not canceled 24 hours in advance", and the road test page says you pay for all road tests, including those passed, failed or not canceled 24 hours in advance.

You leave with

Instruction permit, then a probationary licenseThe probationary license expires 2 years from your next birthday. A regular license requires holding the instruction permit and probationary license for the required time and being at least 19; the original regular Class D license is $42.50 (8 years).

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • Proof of name and date of birth
     Originals only; photocopies are not accepted.
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • Valid U.S. passport or passport card
     • U.S. state or local government issued birth certificate
     • Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
     • Consular Report of Birth Abroad
     • Valid Permanent Resident card or Employment Authorization document
   • Proof of identity
     Your Social Security card can serve as proof of identity.
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • Social Security card
     • Photo ID card from a U.S. university, college, technical college or high school
     • U.S. passport or passport card (issued at 16 or older, valid or expired 5 years or less)
     • Under 18: a parent or guardian with legal custody identifies you (they show a valid Wisconsin driver license or ID)
   • Social Security number · all that apply
   • Two proofs of Wisconsin residency · 2 different documents
     The permit page asks for proof of residency if you are 18 or older. Each must show your name and current Wisconsin street address (no P.O. box).
     Show accepted documents (bring 2)

     • Utility bill
     • Pay stub or earnings statement
     • Bank or financial account statement
     • Deed, mortgage or lease
     • Insurance policy or bill (dated within one year)
     • Government correspondence (issued within one year)
     • Certified school record or transcript
     • Parent or guardian's Wisconsin license or ID (applicants 26 or younger; addresses must match)
   • Payment · all that apply
     Show accepted documents

     • Permit, license and skills exam fees

2. Take a free practice test

   Before the knowledge test, try our Wisconsin Permit Practice Test: 65 questions like the real exam, based on the official handbook, with every answer explained.

   Start the Wisconsin practice test

3. Pass the knowledge, sign and vision tests

   Study the Motorists' Handbook. Knowledge and sign tests at the DMV cost $0; ages 15-17 can take the knowledge test online through the Know2 Drive test provider, for a $10 fee per test, pass or fail. You can book your DMV visit with the online appointment scheduler, which can pre-fill your application.

   Instruction permit on wisconsindot.gov ↗

4. Get your instruction permit

   Permits are issued at all DMV customer service centers except express offices. The Class D permit costs $35 and is valid for 18 months. Your companion sits in the seat beside you and has at least two years of licensed driving experience: a qualified instructor 19 or older, a parent, guardian or spouse 19 or older, or a person 21 or older (with written authorization from your parent or guardian if you are under 18). During hours of darkness, only a qualified instructor or a licensed person 25 or older with at least two years of experience.

5. Hold the permit at least seven days

   If you are 18 or older, you hold the instruction permit at least seven days before the probationary license (unless you hold a valid foreign license and have passed the knowledge test), and bring proof of Wisconsin residency.

   Probationary license on wisconsindot.gov ↗

6. Schedule and pass the road test

   Schedule online at any location that offers road tests and has open appointments; most centers book 8 to 11 weeks ahead. Bring the right vehicle for the license class: the examiner checks it for safety defects and valid registration, and you must know its controls. Cancel at least 24 hours ahead or pay the $15 fee; if you miss the test without canceling, you can't retest for at least 7 days. After a failed test the wait is 1-14 days depending on your results.

   Road test on wisconsindot.gov ↗

7. Get your probationary license

   The original probationary Class D license is $28 and expires 2 years from your next birthday. Cards are mailed and should arrive within 10 business days; your paper receipt is valid for 45 days.

8. Later: get your regular license

   At 18 or older there are no passenger or driving hour restrictions on the probationary license. A regular license requires holding the permit and probationary license for the required time and being at least 19; the original regular Class D license is $42.50 (8 years).

   Graduated driver licensing ↗