Wisconsin Driver’s License Renewal: Everything You Need To Know


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Wisconsin landscape

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A driver’s license is a valuable addition to any wallet. Not only does it ensure you are driving legally, but it’s also proof of who you are and even allows access to airplanes and other locations. As with other documents, there is a point when the license will expire. If you live in Wisconsin, how can you complete the renewal process? What do you need to know?

If you’re interested in learning more about the Wisconsin driver’s license renewal, you’ve come to the right place. No matter where you live, it’s valuable to understand how various legal processes work. Read on to learn about the renewal process, how to complete it, fees, and penalties for being late, and more information. 

The Wisconsin Driver’s License Renewal Process

The Wisconsin driver’s license renewal isn’t too much to handle. There are several things you should think about before heading to the DMV to complete the process:

  • Eligibility: Check to ensure your eligibility for your license. You can’t renew too far ahead of time, and you might need to complete the process in a specific location.
  • Methods of Renewal: Your age, eligibility, needs surrounding your license, and other information will influence how you can renew. Wisconsin allows in-person and online renewal processes. 
  • Required Documentation: You must prove your residence, U.S. status, and other information to renew your license. This requirement may include a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bills, and others.
  • Fees: There are various fees associated with renewing an ID. Ensure you know them beforehand to bring the right amount for your document. 
  • Testing: Some instances of renewal might require a written or visual test. If these are needed, study what you need before you go to ensure you pass with flying colors. 

If you gather the documents and prepare yourself ahead of time, you can complete the renewal without too much stress. It should be simple to renew your license in Wisconsin.


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How To Renew Your Driver’s License in Wisconsin

If you want to renew your driver’s license in Wisconsin, there are two options available. Those eligible may complete the process online, while others must go to their local DMV to get their documentation. 

Online

One of the most popular ways to renew a driver’s license in Wisconsin is to complete it online. This method allows drivers to gain legal driving ability without leaving their homes. Here are the steps you must follow to renew your license online:

  1. Determine your eligibility: First, determine if you qualify. In Wisconsin, you may renew your license online every other time. According to getjerry.com, you qualify to complete the renewal online if you are between 18 and 64 years old, are renewing a Class D or Class M license, and have had no negative shift in your vision.
  2. Gather necessary documents: Compile the papers and information to complete the online process. The official DMV site for the state reports you need papers like your driver’s license number, date of birth, zip code, and more. 
  3. Fill out information online: Add more details to various forms online as they are required, double-checking to ensure they are correct before submitting anything.
  4. Gather a receipt: Once you’ve submitted everything, you will receive a receipt and a temporary license you may print and use until your new one arrives.
  5. Wait for your license in the mail: Wait for the ID to arrive. 

In-Person

If you don’t qualify for the online renewal process or you’d rather complete it online, it’s possible to do the job in-person. Here are the steps you must follow to renew your ID for Wisconsin driving in-person:

  1. Locate your nearest DMV: Find the nearest DMV in your area.
  2. Bring necessary documents: Gather any information required to prove yourself for the renewal. 
  3. Take tests: You must take a vision test while at the DMV.
  4. Fill out application: Fill out the proper application and submit it at the DMV.
  5. Take a photo and pay fees: The DMV will take a picture and ask you to pay any necessary fees.
  6. Gather temporary license: The DMV should provide a temporary license and receipt you may use until your new one comes in the mail.
  7. Wait for a new license: In less than a month, your new license should arrive by mail.

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Fees, Penalties, and Missing the Renewal Deadline for Wisconsin Driver’s License Renewal

Everyone must go through the Wisconsin driver’s license renewal process to continue driving in the state. It’s helpful to understand the fees, penalties, and other issues that come with missing this deadline to ensure you remember to stay on track with your legal driving identification. 

According to theway.com, there is no grace period available if you miss the deadline for the renewal process for your license in Wisconsin. If you are caught with an expired license, you could earn yourself some jail time or a fine of $100 or more if pulled over by the police. The penalties faced will increase depending on how long your ID has expired.

Although it might seem tempting to avoid the renewal process, it isn’t worth it. It’s much easier to complete the renewal process and have an up-to-date license than it is to risk driving around with a license that has gone past its expiration date. Ensure you check the information on your license and get started as soon as possible for a confident drive every time. 


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Final Thoughts

There are two ways to complete the Wisconsin driver’s license renewal process - in-person and online. No matter which you choose, it’s critical to prepare ahead of time to lower the overall stress of the endeavor.

We hope this information was helpful! The more you know about the process for ID renewal in Wisconsin, the easier it will be to get the job done. Although it might seem tempting to put it off, it’s always best to complete it as soon as possible to ensure you can legally drive on the road.



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