Replacing a Lost License in Wisconsin

Replacing a Lost Wisconsin Driver's License

If you're in need of a replacement WI driver's license, you'll need to submit your request to a customer service centers of the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The application process is straightforward. Just remember not to submit your application at a "renewal-only office."

Lost your Wisconsin CDL?

If you've misplaced your commercial driver's license (or worse, had it stolen), your process will be different than that for a standard driver's license. Jump over to our guide to replacing a WI CDL for details.

Apply for a Duplicate WI License

You can apply for a duplicate driver's license either online, by mail, or in person at your local Wisconsin DMV office.

Wisconsin REAL IDs

The Wisconsin DMV now issues federally-compliant REAL ID licenses and IDs in addition to non-compliant driver's licenses. REAL IDs allow you to continue to use your driver's license for domestic travel and entry into federal and military buildings.

If you want to replace a non-compliant license with a REAL ID-compliant license, you MUST visit your DMV customer service center in person. For details on the REAL ID program, see the Wisconsin DMV's guide.

Online

You must meet all of the WI DMV requirements to apply for a replacement driver's license online. If you're eligible, submit your online duplicate license application at the WI DMV website. You'll need your:

  • Wisconsin driver's license number.
  • Social Security number (SSN).
  • Date of birth.
  • Zip code.
  • A valid VISA, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express credit or debit card.
    • The fee for your duplicate driver's license is $14 ($16 for ID cards). You will also be charged a convenience fee.

By Mail

To order a duplicate WI driver's license or ID card by mail, you will need:

For regular First Class mail, send your application and payment to:

Department of Transportation
Driver Eligibility Unit
P.O. Box 7995
Madison, WI 53707

For expedited mail or overnight delivery, send your application and payment to the following address:

Department of Transportation
Driver Eligibility Unit
4822 Madison Yards Way, Room 225
Madison, WI 53705

In Person

To apply for a duplicate WI driver's license or ID card in person, just stop by your local DMV customer service center and:

You will be issued a receipt that may serve as a temporary driver's license until your new Wisconsin driver's license arrives in the mail.

Replace Your License While Out of State

If you are currently outside of Wisconsin and your driver's license or ID card is lost or stolen, you may still obtain a replacement driver's license while out of state. Simply follow the instructions to apply for a duplicate by mail as outlined in Apply for a Duplicate WI License above.

Report a Missing WI Driver's License

If you have lost your Wisconsin driver's license or ID card, you may be at risk for identity theft. Be sure to file a police report regarding the loss or disappearance of your property.

You may also request that the Wisconsin DMV place a notation on your driving record for additional identification to be requested. This way, if someone is attempting to use your identification with the DMV or a law enforcement officer, they will asked to provide supporting ID, which they will likely not have.

This will create an extra step for you when conducting business with the DMV or with a law enforcement agency, but it is better to be safe than sorry. The Federal Trade Commission provides further identity theft information for your guidance.

Forms

MV3001
Driver License Application
DMV application for any class of an original, renewed, OR replacement Wisconsin driver's license OR instruction permit.
MV3004
Identification Card Application
Apply for a WI identification card with the Division of Motor Vehicles.
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