Driver’s License / DMV


Driving in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) oversees driver licensing, vehicle registration, and vehicle titling throughout the state. Local municipalities establish their own parking regulations, so overnight parking rules and permit requirements may vary by community.

Driver’s Licenses

New Wisconsin residents are generally required to obtain a Wisconsin driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency. You are considered a Wisconsin resident if your principal residence is in Wisconsin, you pay Wisconsin income taxes, or you are registered to vote in the state. Wisconsin offers both a standard driver’s license and an optional REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. A REAL ID is recommended for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities, although a valid U.S. passport may also be used.

Before visiting a DMV Customer Service Center, use the Wisconsin Driver License Guide to determine which documents you will need, complete your application in advance, and schedule an appointment to help reduce wait times.

Helpful Websites

DMV Customer Service Centers

Central – 2701 S. Chase Ave., Milwaukee

Downtown – 819 N. 6th St., Milwaukee

Northeast – 6073 N. Teutonia Ave., Milwaukee

Northwest – 7301 W. Mill Rd., Milwaukee

South – 1835 College Ave., South Milwaukee

Southwest – 5500 W. Grange Ave., Greendale

Kenosha – 4911 88th Ave., Suite A, Kenosha

Racine/Sturtevant – 9531 Rayne Rd., Sturtevant

Waukesha – 2019 Golf Rd., Pewaukee

Ozaukee – 501 N. Dekora Woods Blvd., Saukville

Washington – 1516 W. Paradise Dr., West Bend

Vehicle Registration

All vehicles operated in Wisconsin must be titled and registered with the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). New residents should transfer their vehicle title and registration after establishing Wisconsin residency. Registration renewals, title transfers, replacement license plates, and many other DMV services can be completed online through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Website: https://wisconsindot.gov

Online Vehicle Registration & Title Services: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/online-srvcs/other-servs/default.aspx

Vehicle Emissions Testing

Vehicles registered in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington, and Waukesha counties may be required to complete an emissions inspection before registration renewal. Most eligible vehicles are tested every two years as part of the Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program (WIVIP).

Find an Emissions Testing Center

Locate a nearby inspection facility by using the WIVIP “Find an Inspection Facility” search tool. You can search by ZIP Code, city, or distance from your location to find the testing center most convenient for you.

Website: https://www.wisconsinvip.org

Find a Testing Center: https://www.wisconsinvip.org/WivipPublic/Pages/testfacilities.aspx

WIVIP Self-Service Testing Centers (24/7 Kiosks Available)

  • WIVIP North
    8718 W. Brown Deer Road, Brown Deer
  • WIVIP South
    9300 S. 27th Street, Oak Creek

Both locations offer staffed emissions testing Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., along with 24/7 self-service kiosks for most 2007 and newer vehicles. No appointment is required.

Overnight Parking

Many communities throughout southeastern Wisconsin regulate overnight street parking. Rules vary by municipality and may include permit requirements, alternate-side parking, winter parking restrictions, or time limits. Before parking overnight, check the regulations for your city or village.

City of Milwaukee Overnight Parking Information:
Night Parking Permits & Temporary Overnight Parking Permission

For communities outside Milwaukee, visit your local city or village website and search for “Overnight Parking” or “Parking Permits.”

🚗 KNOW BEFORE YOU DRIVE

Important Wisconsin Driving Laws & Safety Tips

🛡️ Automobile Insurance Required
Wisconsin law requires all drivers to maintain liability automobile insurance. Be sure to update your policy with your new Wisconsin address after moving.

🍺 Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)
Wisconsin has strict impaired-driving laws. For most drivers, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. Penalties may include fines, license suspension, mandatory assessments, and possible jail time.

📱 Distracted Driving
Texting while driving is prohibited in Wisconsin. Using hands-free technology is the safest way to make or receive calls while driving.

👶 Seat Belts & Child Safety
Seat belts are required for drivers and passengers. Children must ride in the appropriate child safety seat or booster seat based on Wisconsin law.

❄️ Winter Preparedness
Carry an ice scraper, snow brush, flashlight, jumper cables, blanket, and emergency supplies during winter months.