Wisconsin Drivers License Replacement
Online assistance makes getting a driver’s license replacement fast and easy. If you have lost your license or have updated information like your name or address, you will need a duplicate license as soon as possible. Not only will it be hard for you to identify yourself without an ID, but driving without a current license can result in steep fines and penalties. Fortunately, online assistance services will provide you with step-by-step instructions for how to request a duplicate or replacement license.
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By Mail
Getting help by mail often takes longer and may require more effort than learning how to get a duplicate license online. However, some drivers still prefer to complete their DMV tasks by mail. When using this method to order a driver’s license replacement, you will need to set aside enough time for your correspondence to make it to the DMV. The whole task may take a few weeks, since the DMV will then have to process your request before mailing you a license. Be sure to double-check all your forms, payment methods and documents, since any error will only delay the process.
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In Person at a DMV Office
Unfortunately, there are some transactions you can only complete in person at a DMV office. However, you can make sure your visits are as quick and successful as possible by doing some preparation beforehand. Gathering your documents and filling out any necessary forms before your appointment can help decrease your time at the DMV office. Depending on your state, you may also be able to make an appointment prior to your visit. You can prepare for your visit by taking advantage of the online assistance services available to you.
Any Wisconsin driver with a lost drivers license must seek to replace it immediately through one of the methods offered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). Replacing drivers license documents quickly can protect you from being ticketed for driving without a license and also guard against identity theft via fraudulent use of your drivers license. However, there are several reasons why you may need a duplicate copy of your driving credentials. For instance, you may still possess your card but it is damaged beyond recognition. For a Wisconsin drivers license to be valid, it must be in good repair with the cardholder’s identifying details and photo legible as well as up to date. You may need to obtain a replacement copy if the information on your card is obsolete.
You may replace drivers license credentials in WI in person or online and by mail if temporarily living elsewhere. Each replacement method will require you to submit information or forms as well as payment for the duplicate card. Continue reading to learn how to replace drivers license documents in WI including how to obtain a copy if you are temporarily living out-of-state.
When is a replacement drivers license required in Wisconsin?
A replacement drivers license in Wisconsin is required anytime your card is missing, marred or outdated. The reason for the drivers license replacement may affect the method in which you may request a copy of the documentation you will need to furnish. You may need several replacement cards over your lifetime, as there are multiple occurrences that call for new credentials.
You should apply for a WI drivers license replacement if your license has physical damage that blocks important text or your photograph. Most Wisconsin residents are eligible to get a drivers license copy online for these circumstances. However, if you are applying for a copy for other reasons, such as a name change, a gender reassignment, a birth date correction or an upgrade to a REAL-ID, then you must apply for it in person at a DMV customer service center.
Note: Drivers license renewals are different from replacements, as a replacement will have the same expiration as the lost or damaged credential.
How to Replace Your Drivers License Online in Wisconsin
To apply for a drivers license copy online in Wisconsin, you must meet certain requirements. First, your current WI license must not be expired or within 30 days of the expiration date. Additionally, your Wisconsin drivers license cannot be suspended, revoked or canceled by WI or any other state.
Other qualifications to apply for a Wisconsin drivers license copy online include being a U.S. citizen with a current photo on file with the DMV. You also must not have applied for a duplicate drivers license four times online within the past year and have a Social Security Number on file that has been verified via Social Security Online Verification (SSOLV). Furthermore, you must be 18 years of age or older unless you have completed an approved driver education course.
If you fit the conditions for replacing drivers license in WI online, then make sure you have the following things ready to apply:
- WI drivers license number plus the last four digits or your Social Security Number or your full Social Security Number if your drivers license number is unavailable
- Date of birth
- Zip Code
- An adult sponsorship if you are younger than 18 years of age
- Valid credit or debit card to cover the fee payment and service charge
Upon completion of the online application for a WI DMV duplicate drivers license, you will receive a receipt with your photo. You must print this receipt and use it for identification, driving and voting purposes until your permanent copy of drivers license credentials arrives via USPS mail within 10 days.
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How to Replace Your Wisconsin Drivers License in Person
If you are wondering, “Where can I get a copy of my drivers license in Wisconsin in person?” then check out this list of DMV locations in WI. Like the online option, you will need to fill out a replacement drivers license form, which is available online and can be printed out to complete before your visit to the DMV. If you prefer, then you can wait until your DMV visit to get a copy of the form.
When you go in person to replace lost drivers license credentials, make sure you bring your proof of identity, your Social Security card and fee payment. Legal presence documentation is also an essential component to get copy of drivers license in Wisconsin for non-citizen applicants. If you are applying for a name correction or address change on your drivers license, then you will need additional documents establishing evidence of the modifications.
Out-of-State Drivers License Replacement in Wisconsin
You may be able to request a Wisconsin drivers license copy online if you need to replace documents from an out-of-state location. Eligibility for an out-of-state online drivers license replacement is limited to U.S. citizens who have a valid photo and a verified Social Security Number on file with the DMV in WI.
Other out-of-state WI residents may be eligible to apply by mail for a WI copy of drivers license credentials by mailing the application with your temporary mailing address indicated in the “Mailing Address” field on the form. Include payment for the WI duplicate drivers license fee with a check or money order made payable to Registration Fee Trust. You will need to send everything to the DMV address in Madison. Mailing options include first class mail or overnight if it is a priority request.
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Wisconsin Drivers License Replacement Fees
The fee to replace drivers license in Wisconsin costs will be the same whether ordered online, in person or by mail. However, the cost will vary by driving class as well as if you plan on renewing your credentials. An additional service fee is charged for credit card payments when the online system is utilized.