Wisconsin has new driver's licenses, ID cards: What to know at DMV

Dec 08, 2023

The look of your driver's license or identification card in Wisconsin is getting a facelift. And you should like the reason for the upgrade: making it more secure.

Here's what you need to know about the new IDs.

The new cards made their debut June 5.

The new design elements embedded in the cards are meant to make them more resistant to fraud, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles.

"Wisconsin DMV continues to stay on the leading edge of technology by incorporating the next generation of updated security features into our driver licenses and ID cards," WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson said in a news release. "Our residents can be proud of the modernized new cards and also the efforts DMV takes to secure their credentials."

The cards feature hand crafted artwork of Wisconsin features like the Wisconsin state Capitol and state flag, which some people might already have on their licenses.

There are also transparent windows visible on the card's right edge and back bottom edge.

The DMV also says it is the first state to have a security feature with an "advanced manufacturing process" that allows a clear ribbon to flow right off the edge of the card and is integrated with cardholder data.

There's also a ‘flipping effect' that is hard to duplicate or counterfeit, the DMV says. The orange donor dot has now been moved to a larger sugar maple leaf that is more pronounced on the card.

"The first thing you notice is Wisconsin's cards are even more attractive and the images celebrate the state. But built within the beautiful images and manufacturing process are layers of security features designed to protect card users and businesses who rely on their validity," said Administrator Kristina Boardman in the release.

No. Cards for those younger than 21 years old will continue to be vertical and be a blue/red color theme. Cards for people 21 and older will remain horizontal and keep its blue/gold theme.

No. Fees are unchanged. Here's a list of all the fees through the DMV.

No, there is no requirement for you to take action.

But if you want to replace your card before your license is up for renewal, you can do so through the DMV's website at wisconsindmv.gov/Dreplace.

New cards will be given to you when you renew your license or ID card, request a replacement, or upon first issuance.

The Real ID deadline is May 7, 2025. Real IDs are just a more secure version of the traditional driver's license or ID card.

You are not required to get a Real ID version of your license or ID card. They are both still valid even after the deadline but you'll need a Real ID in order to fly domestically or visit a federal building without a U.S. passport.

You need to go to the DMV in person to get a Real ID.