How do I get an appointment at the Wisconsin DMV? If you are a new resident of Wisconsin, you may need to consider some of the processes and paperwork necessary to keep your vehicle’s documents in order, as well as the driver’s own.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the office in charge of processing driver’s license, vehicle and related paperwork in the state of Wisconsin.
You can schedule an appointment DMV Wisconsin online, by phone or in person at an office near you.
Request an appointment at DMV Wisconsin
- Log in from DMV Wisconsin at https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/online-srvcs/dmv.
- Choose from Online Services, Driver’s License/ID, Vehicle Registration or schedule your appointment.
- You can schedule an appointment, exam, renew your license, ID card, request a duplicate, make changes or payments.
- However, you can also check hours of operation and access phone numbers.
- Some Wisconsin DMV offices will be able to assist you in person, others from telephone services.
At DMV Wisconsin, an appointment-only reservation system has been implemented for certain required in-person transactions that cannot be completed online, by phone or by mail.
Best times to address the Wisconsin DMV
Here are some tips on the best times to visit the Wisconsin DMV.
- Afternoons tend to be busier than mornings
- The middle of the week tends to have shorter waits than Mondays and Fridays
- The Wisconsin DMV office starts the lunch break around noon, which leaves fewer employees. Try to avoid the lunch hour if possible.
- Make sure you have enough time to finish your paperwork, especially if you are getting a permit or taking a road test.
Services available at DMV Wisconsin
DMV Wisconsin is adding more and more online services so you can get things done without having to visit a physical office for an appointment. You can renew your vehicle registration, replace your license and more online.
Here are some of the services you will be able to perform at DMV Wisconsin online appointments.
Wisconsin driver’s license
- Applying for a new license
- Renew or change driver’s license
- Suspended or revoked license
- Teen license
- Driver record or accident reports
- Schedule a test drive
Commercial CDL License
- Wisconsin CDL Requirements
- Apply for CDL license
- Medical requirements
- Motor carriers and truckers
- Modify or maintain your Wisconsin CDL
Vehicle Services
- Obtain titles and plates
- Sell or dispose of a vehicle
- Disabled parking
- Vehicle registration or history
- Renew registration or plates
Real ID in Wisconsin
Under the Real ID Act of 2005, minimum security standards are established for issuing and producing licenses and identification cards in all states.
As of May 3, 2023, all persons would be required to carry a REAL ID license to access certain federal buildings, enter nuclear facilities, and board commercial flights within the United States.
Wisconsin Real ID Requirements
To obtain your Real ID in Wisconsin, you can renew your license or identification card online for a new Real ID. If you have not previously been issued a Wisconsin driver’s license or ID, go to a Wisconsin DMV office.
- Proof of name and date of birth.
- Proof of lawful presence in the U.S.
- Proof of identity, as well as proof of name change (if applicable).
- Proof of address (two receipts).
- Provide your social security number.
In general, to apply for a REAL ID card, you must present an identity document that includes your date of birth and your real, full name. (Passport, birth certificate, green card, receipts)
Steps to obtain your REAL ID
- Gather your documents you will need to apply for your REAL ID.
- Schedule an appointment online or go to a Wisconsin DMV office.
- Go to a DMV office, keeping in mind the estimated time of service.
- Bring your documents with you and process your Real ID in Wisconsin.
- You can also call the DMV Wisconsin phone number at (608) 264-7447.
What to Bring to Your Wisconsin DMV Appointment
If you are applying for a driver’s license or travel ID (a REAL ID-compliant license or ID) in Wisconsin, you will need to bring some documents with you to your Wisconsin DMV appointment. If you have all of your documents with you, your visit will go faster and smoother. Documents include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, such as a passport or birth certificate
- Proof of social security number, such as a social security card or W-2 form
- Two documents proving your Wisconsin residency, such as a utility bill or lease.
All documents must be originals and stamped if necessary. If you already sent some documents when you applied for your appointment online, depending on the procedure to be performed, you will need to bring mainly an identification card or your driver’s license.