Wisconsin Drivers Education

 

As a resident of Wisconsin you are eligible to obtain an Instruction Permit at age 15 ½ provided you have all the required proof of identity, are enrolled in a driver certification program and have the signature of a parent, step-parent or other adult sponsor. If under 18 years old, you must be enrolled in a school program or high school equivalency program, have graduated from high school or have been granted a declaration of high school graduation equivalent, or be enrolled in a home-based private education program, and not be a habitual truant. You must pass a written test, knowledge of signs test and a vision test as well as complete an application for a license.

 

As an Instruction Permit holder you are subject to the following restrictions:

 

You must maintain absolute sobriety. You cannot have any alcohol in your system at any time, no matter what your age

 

You must wear your seat belt

 

You must hold your instruction permit at least six months before you can get a probationary license if you are under 18 years old. If you are 18 years old or older, you must hold your instruction permit at least seven days before you can get a probationary license

 

You must have received no traffic tickets for six months prior to applying for a probationary license if you are under 18 years old

 

Demerit points are doubled for every traffic ticket after your first
 

Your instruction permit will be suspended for six months if you receive 12 or more points within a 12 month period

 

A Class D instruction permit is valid for 1 year and those under 18 years of age must show proof of enrollment or completion of a certified driver education course to renew an instruction permit.

 

Restrictions for operating with an instruction permit

 

You must be accompanied by a driver with at least two years licensed driving experience who currently holds a valid regular (not probationary or occupational) license. The accompanying driver must occupy the passenger seat beside the applicant and is 19 or older, a parent, guardian or immediate family member, a person 21 or older provided you have written authorization from your parent or guardian prior to operating the car. If you are 16 you may have one additional licensed driver 25 years or more with 2 years experience in the car with you and If you operate a vehicle during hours of darkness, you must be accompanied by a qualified instructor or a licensed person 25 years of age with at least two years of licensed driving experience occupying the seat beside you.