How to Get Your Driver's License in Wisconsin

Last verified: 2026-03

Here is how to get your driver's license in Wisconsin. Wisconsin uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 16.75.

GDL Stages in Wisconsin

1

Learner's Permit

Age 15.5+ 6 months minimum

Requirements

  • Pass written knowledge test
  • Pass vision screening
  • Complete driver education course
  • Parental consent if under 18

Restrictions

  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
2

Probationary License

Age 16+ 9 months minimum

Requirements

  • Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
  • Complete 30 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
  • Pass road skills test

Restrictions

  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • No more than 1 non-family passenger for the first 9 months
3

Full Unrestricted License

Age 16.75+

Requirements

  • Hold probationary license for at least 9 months
  • Clean driving record

Restricted License Rules

  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. during the probationary period.
  • Only 1 non-family passenger is allowed for the first 9 months of the probationary license.

How restrictions lift: Restrictions are removed after 9 months of clean probationary driving.

Road Test Overview

What Is Tested

  • Vehicle control
  • Turning and lane changes
  • Parking
  • Obeying traffic signals and signs
  • Speed management
  • Yielding right of way

Adult Licensing Pathway

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to probationary license restrictions. They receive a full license upon passing both tests.

Wisconsin-Specific Information

Wisconsin allows a full license as early as 16 and three-quarters, making the total GDL timeline from permit to full license about 15 months. The state requires completion of driver education before a permit can be issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 16.75 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Probationary License, Full Unrestricted License.

  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. during the probationary period.
  • Only 1 non-family passenger is allowed for the first 9 months of the probationary license.

Adults age 18 and older in Wisconsin can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to probationary license restrictions. They receive a full license upon passing both tests.

Need your permit first?

Start with the learner's permit before your full license.

Wisconsin learner's permit guide

Check drivers ed requirements

Find out if drivers ed is required in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin drivers ed requirements

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

View Online Courses

This information is based on Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) website for the most current information.