Wisconsin DMV Waiving Road Tests For Teen Drivers

MILWAUKEE, WI — Teen drivers in Wisconsin will not have to pass a behind-the-wheel road test in order to earn a driver's license, the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles said Tuesday.

State officials with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation said the pilot program was born out of a need to safely address a backlog of demand amid the coronavirus pandemic. State officials estimated there is a backlog of 16,000 road test requests and that 10,000 of those will be eligible for the road test waiver.

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“Safe driving is a result of practice and instruction. When young people learning to drive have completed all necessary requirements and demonstrated to their instructors and to their parents or guardians that they are ready for a probationary driver license, this program — which has been safe and effective in other states for years — will allow them to move forward,” DMV Administrator Kristina Boardman said in a statement Tuesday. “The DMV will offer road tests, but this pilot program will allow another path forward for those who qualify.”

State officials said that as long as the driver is younger than 18, has successfully completed their required training and has the endorsement of a parent or guardian, they will be able to get their probationary driver license without completing a road test.

The new rule goes into effect May 11.The program eliminates the need for in-person visits to a DMV service center by enabling drivers to complete the tasks online. The pilot allows the public to get service more quickly while maintaining safety.

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