Out of State Transfers - How to transfer your out of state license to Wisconsin

If you are new to Wisconsin and have a driver license from a different state, you are considered an out of state transfer.

You are considered a Wisconsin resident if any of these apply:

• Your principal residence is in this state

• You pay your income taxes here

• You are registered to vote here

When you need to apply for a WI driver license after establishing residence:

• Within 60 days for a regular license

• Within 30 days for a Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Teen driver (15 - 17 years old) with an out of state learner's permit

Teen drivers relocating to Wisconsin from another state are required to present evidence of having completed driver education. The DMV personnel will evaluate your completion documents to decide if further training is necessary in Wisconsin. At the age of 16, you are permitted to take one road test using a valid or expired (less than one year) out-of-state learner’s permit. To arrange the road test, you must visit a DMV office.

Teen driver (16 - 17 years old) with an out of state driver's permit

Teen drivers who move to Wisconsin from another state and already have a driver license in that state, can apply for a Wisconsin probationary license.

First Wisconsin driver license (age 18 and older)

• If you hold a valid (or expired less than 8 years) license from another state, you can apply for a Wisconsin driver license.

• If you have a REAL ID from another state, you will need to provide all the necessary documents again in Wisconsin.

Returning to Wisconsin (previously held a Wisconsin driver's license for age 18 and older)

• If you previously held a Wisconsin driver license and are returning, you may be eligible to replace or renew your former WI driver license.