Wisconsin DMV Streamlines Process to Decrease Wait Time

The Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles has enhanced its innovative self-serve online Driver License Guide app, which streamlines the process for customers needing regular or commercial driver licenses and identification cards.

“It’s no secret; everyone wants to make their visit to a Wisconsin DMV shorter. The new Driver License Guide retrieves the forms you need, walks you through the process to fill in the forms, and can even submit the paperwork electronically for you,” explains Ann Perry, Bureau of Driver Services director. “Depending on your eligibility, the new enhanced features may even help you schedule an appointment with the DMV.”

The Driver License Guide, available at www.wisconsindmv.gov or linked through https://app.wi.gov/DLGuides/, takes out the guesswork and walks customers through a multi-step process. First, it accesses the needed forms. Although the Guide can provide general information through an anonymous search, customers may also allow the Guide to determine eligibility, customize information, and pre-fill forms specific to the customer’s current driving record. From there, the customer can print/download the information found and the tailored checklist.

Next, customers can begin the online application process. At the end of the application process, the customer will have the opportunity to electronically submit the application(s) to the DMV and, depending on eligibility, schedule an appointment.

“The DMV will already have the forms, and the checklist provided in the Guide will help the customer remember to bring any needed documents with them to the DMV,” Perry said. “This will help ensure that customers are able to complete their transaction with one visit to DMV, and will reduce the amount of time spent at the DMV service center.”

Wisconsin already has some of the shortest wait times for DMVs in the country. In fact, the wait time for nearly 90% of DMV customers is less than 20 minutes. With this new process, DMV customers using the Driver License Guide and appointment scheduler will be served within ten minutes of checking-in when they arrive for their appointment. Wisconsin DMV service centers conduct more than 2 million in-person transactions each year.