The DMV is offering guidance for residents who need an official photo ID to cast their ballot
As upcoming elections approach, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is offering guidance for residents who need an official photo ID to cast their ballot. Under state law, voters must present an approved form of identification at their polling place. Fortunately, standard Wisconsin driver licenses or state ID cards are fully accepted, and a federally compliant REAL ID is not required for voting purposes.
To apply for a first-time state ID card, applicants should begin by visiting the official DMV portal at wisconsindmv.gov/idcards to review necessary documentation. Next, voters can visit their local DMV Customer Service Center with the required proof of identity, residency, and U.S. citizenship. While scheduling an appointment in advance can save time, walk-ins are also welcome at all locations.
If a voter lacks the required documentation to obtain a standard ID right away, the DMV provides an ID Petition Process free of charge. This service issues a temporary receipt that is valid for voting while the full ID application is being processed, ensuring that no eligible citizen is turned away at the polls due to a missing ID card.
For personalized assistance with obtaining an ID, residents can call the DMV’s dedicated hotline at (844) 588-1069. For additional questions regarding voter registration status, polling place locations, or general election rules, citizens should consult the official Wisconsin Elections Commission site at elections.wi.gov.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
