Wisconsin License Plate: Lookup, Renewal, & Options
Are you looking to renew your Wisconsin license plates? Or maybe you’re just curious about the different plate designs Wisconsin offers? Either way, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from renewing your plates to picking a specialty design and staying on top of upcoming changes.
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Applying for Wisconsin License Plates
You need to apply for Wisconsin license plates if any of the following apply to you in Wisconsin:
- You bought a vehicle from a private seller
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You received a vehicle as a gift
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You recently moved to Wisconsin and are registering your car in-state
If you didn’t go through a dealer, make sure you display a temporary plate within two business days of the purchase date to stay legal while your registration is processed.
How to apply online for a new title and plates
Ready to apply? Here’s what you’ll need to get started online:
- A Wisconsin Driver’s License or State ID
- The signed vehicle title from the seller
- Access to a printer — you’ll need to print your temporary plate
Once you’ve applied online and paid the registration fees, don’t forget the final step: mail in your documents to the Wisconsin DMV. Here’s what to send:
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Your Title and License Plate eApplication/Receipt
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The signed vehicle title
Mail to:
WisDOT-eMV Public
P.O. Box 7907
Madison, WI 53707-7907
How to apply in person for a new title and plates
To apply in person, you need to have these items ready:
- Your Wisconsin Driver’s License or State ID
- The signed vehicle title from the seller
To save time at the DMV, fill out the MV1 Form ahead of time. Bring the completed form, your documents, and payment for the fees
Wisconsin License Plate Lookup
No, you can’t look up someone’s plate number and get their info. In Wisconsin, license plate information is not public record. It’s only accessible to law enforcement, authorized agencies, and certain professionals like insurance companies or private investigators with a legitimate reason.
Wisconsin License Plate Renewal
If your plates are about to expire — or already have — don’t worry. You’ve got three easy ways to renew:
- Online
- In person
- By mail
Renew online
Renewing online is quick and easy — just have your Wisconsin Driver’s License and Social Security number ready. Follow the prompts on the DMV website, pay the renewal fee, and you’re done.
Your new registration sticker will arrive in the mail shortly. Until then, keep your receipt in the car in case you get pulled over — it proves your registration is up to date.
Renew in person
Head to your nearest DMV, pay the renewal fee, and you’ll get your new sticker on the spot.
Renew by mail
Just fill out the renewal notice you received or complete this form, and mail it to:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 3279
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3279
Wisconsin License Plate Options
If you want something beyond the standard plate, Wisconsin offers plenty of specialty license plates you can choose from, for an extra fee.
The default Wisconsin plate is the Amateur Radio plate, which is included with your registration, plus a $15 plate fee.
Another standard option is the Disabled License Plate, which comes with a $15 annual fee and is available to qualifying individuals with a disability.
A fan favorite is the Green Bay Packers Plate, which comes with a $15 annual fee.
New Wisconsin License Plate
For years, Wisconsin license plates have started with the letter “A” and used a 7-character format. But those combinations are now all used up. The state will soon begin issuing new plates that start with the letter “B.”
FAQ: Wisconsin License Plates
Can you look up a license plate owner in Wisconsin?
No, this information is not public record and is only available to law enforcement and authorized individuals or companies like insurance agencies and private investigators.
How many license plates are issued in Wisconsin?
Over 600,000 license plates have been issued in the state.
What are the black license plates in Wisconsin for?
They’re for fans of Elkhart Lake’s Road America — a legendary four-mile road course known as one of the world’s premier racing circuits.
Can you have no front license plate in Wisconsin?
No, Wisconsin law requires a front license plate on most vehicles.
What license plates are available in Wisconsin?
You can see all available license plates here.
How much is a new license plate in Wisconsin?
Standard plates cost $85.
Are there new Wisconsin license plates?
Yes, the state is now issuing “B Series” plates after exhausting combinations from the previous “A Series.”
How often does Wisconsin replace license plates?
Plates are automatically replaced every 10 years or sooner if they become unreadable.
