Global Education: Driver's License

Waukesha County Service Center

2019 Golf Road, Pewaukee, WI 53072

Monday: 8:30am – 4:45pm

Tuesday: 8:30am – 4:45pm

Wednesday: 8:30am – 4:45pm

Thursday: 8:30am – 4:45pm

Friday: 8:30am – 4:15pm

Saturday & Sunday: Closed

If you own a car in Wisconsin, you are required to do the following:

• Purchase Car Insurance
  • Minimum Insurance Requirements
• Apply for a title, register, get license plates, transfer driver's license
  • New Resident Requirements

New residents are required to transfer their license within 60 days of establishing residency in Wisconsin.

Initial Driver's License / State ID Application

 International students who have never had a driver's license or state ID from any state in the United States must provide the following documents:

1. Passport with visa: Your passport must be valid, although your visa can be expired
2. I-94
   1. If your last entry into the U.S. was before May 21, 2013, you may provide the paper I-94 inside of your passport
   2. If your last entry into the U.S. was after May 21, 2013, you will need to retrieve and print out your I-94 number online at www.cbp.gov/i94.
3. Valid I-20: Students and spouses must have at least 6 months (preferably more) remaining before the completion date. If your I-20 says “transfer pending” you will need a new I-20. Please request a new I-20 at the same time as the letter.
4. Proof of residence in Wisconsin: Two documents showing where you live.
   1. Printed or electronic documents may include (must be no older than 90 days): Paycheck issued, utility bill, mobile phone bill, bank statement
   2. Original Copies: Lease, mortgage, renters or car insurance policy valid at least 1 year into the future
5. Social Security Card or Denial Letter:
   1. If you have a Social Security Number [SSN], bring your Social Security card with you.
   2. If you not have an SSN, you must obtain a letter from the Social Security Office, stating that you are not eligible for an SSN. (See Social Security Information Handout)
6. Complete required tests: Students from France, Germany, South Korea, or Taiwan may be eligible to have the skills and knowledge tests waived.
7. Knowledge test
8. Sign test
9. Vision test
10. Appropriate form and fee:
    1. Complete MV3001 (online or pick up at DMV)
    2. Driver license fees (typically $35, DMV accepts check, cash, credit or debit cards)

Wisconsin License Renewals

A Wisconsin Driver's license can be renewed until the end date on the I-20 even if it is less than one year. The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles will include the grace period (60 days). Take items 1 - 3 to the Department of Motor Vehicles [DMV].

Transfer of another State License to a Wisconsin License or ID

Students or spouses must take items 1 – 7 above to the DMV in addition to your previous license.

Optional Practical Training [OPT]

Students on Optional Practical Training [OPT] must present the Employment Authorization Document [EAD] and the applicant cannot go before the start date on the EAD. For new licenses, take items 1 – 6.

For transferring from another state license to a Wisconsin license, take items 1 – 7.
For renewing the Wisconsin license, take items 1 – 3, 7.

International Driving Permit

Students who do not qualify for a Wisconsin Driver's license can drive for one year if they have a valid foreign driver's license and an international driving permit.