Patrick Fernan, DMV Operations Manager
(608) 261-8605, patrick.fernan@dot.wi.gov
Efforts are underway to meet expanded service hours outlined in budget
The recently passed 2011-2013 Wisconsin state budget includes a provision to expand DMV service in Wisconsin. The new requirement states that DMV driver license and ID card services must be offered in each county at least 20 hours per week. Currently, 30 counties in Wisconsin have DMV customer service centers that are open 20 or more hours per week. In order to meet this requirement in all of Wisconsin’s 72 counties, DMV is moving quickly to recruit, hire and fully train new staff. Additionally, efforts are underway to find the appropriate locations, negotiate leases, and furnish these new facilities. DMV plans to open the new service centers by the end of January of 2012. Until then, DMV service hours remain in place for the 88 locations currently serving customers.
Another recently passed law in Wisconsin allows the issuance of an ID card free of charge if it is requested for voting purposes. Customers who wish to request a photo ID card for voting purposes may do so at their local DMV customer service center starting July 1. There are some restrictions on the issuance of free photo ID cards. For example, a person holding a valid driver license is not eligible for a free photo ID, nor is someone who would not be at least 18 years of age at the time of the next election. For more information on the specifics of obtaining a free ID card for voting purposes, visit the WisDOT Web site.
