Renewing Your Wisconsin Driver's License: Everything You Need to Know

Renewing your driver's license is a routine but essential task for every driver in Wisconsin. It ensures that your information is current, your vision meets the required standards, and you remain a legal driver on the state's roads. Fortunately, the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides several methods for renewal, including a convenient online option for many drivers.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the renewal process, from when you need to renew and how much it costs to what documents you'll need to bring.

When to Renew Your Wisconsin Driver's License

A standard Wisconsin driver's license is valid for eight years and expires on your birthday. The DMV makes it easy to remember by sending a renewal reminder notice.

• Renewal Notice: You should receive a reminder in the mail or via email/text (if you've signed up for eNotify) about 45 to 60 days before your license expires.
• Renewal Window: You can renew your regular driver's license up to one year before its expiration date. Probationary licenses can be renewed up to 90 days before they expire.

What Happens if Your License Expires?

It is illegal to drive on an expired license. While you can still renew it, there are consequences for letting it lapse.

• Late Fee: If you renew after your license has expired, you will have to pay an additional $5 late fee.
• Expired for More Than 8 Years: If your license has been expired for more than eight years, you will be required to start over as a new applicant. This means you will have to take the knowledge test, signs test, and the road skills test again.

Methods for Renewal: Online vs. In-Person

Wisconsin offers two primary ways to renew your license. Your eligibility will determine which method you can use.

1. Online Renewal

This is the fastest and most convenient method for eligible drivers. You may be able to renew online every other renewal cycle.

General Eligibility for Online Renewal:

• You are a U.S. citizen between the ages of 18 and 64.
• You are renewing a standard Class D (car) or Class M (motorcycle) license.
• Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
• You have had no changes to your vision or have any new medical restrictions.
• You do not need to change your name or other personal information.
• Your current photo on file is still recent and meets DMV standards.

To renew online, you will visit the official Wisconsin DMV website and follow the prompts. You'll need your driver's license number, date of birth, zip code, and a credit or debit card to pay the fee. After completing the process, you can print a receipt that acts as your temporary license until your new card arrives in the mail within 10 days.

2. In-Person Renewal

You must renew in person at a DMV Customer Service Center if:

• You are not eligible for online renewal.
• You are upgrading to a REAL ID-compliant license for the first time.
• You need to change your name or address.
• You are over 65 years old.
• You need a new photo taken.
• You have a Commercial Driver License (CDL).

Steps for In-Person Renewal:

1. Gather Your Documents: Collect all the necessary paperwork.
2. Complete the Application: You can save time by filling out the Wisconsin Driver License Application (Form MV3001) beforehand.
3. Visit a DMV Center: Find the most convenient DMV location. Appointments are not typically required for renewals, but check the DMV website for the latest policies.
4. Pass a Vision Test: A vision screening is required for all in-person renewals.
5. Get a New Photo: A new photograph will be taken.
6. Pay the Fee: Pay the required renewal fee.

Required Documents and Fees

The documents you need depend on the type of renewal.

• Standard Renewal (No Changes): You will generally just need your current driver's license and payment for the fee.
• Upgrading to REAL ID: If you are getting a REAL ID for the first time, you must bring original documents proving your identity, name and date of birth, Social Security number, and two proofs of Wisconsin residency. There is no extra charge to upgrade to a REAL ID during your regular renewal.

Renewal Fees:

• Standard 8-Year Renewal: The fee is currently $34.
• Late Fee: An additional $5 is charged for expired licenses.
• Online Convenience Fee: A small convenience fee may be added for online transactions.

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check the official WisDOT website for the most current fee schedule.

By knowing your options and preparing ahead of time, you can ensure the renewal of your Wisconsin driver's license is a smooth and simple process.