A seemingly quick trip to the DMV can turn into a lengthy adventure if you visit during the busy hours. It would be nice to make an appointment with the DMV ahead of time so you can secure yourself quick access despite the crowds. However, this is not always possible, and in many cases you may have to wait in line like everyone else. Fortunately, there are ways to settle your DMV needs most efficiently with a little planning and foresight. It’s easy to learn which services you can make an appointment for, the best times to visit a DMV, and the services provided on the DMV website.
Making a Road Test Appointment
Unfortunately, in Wisconsin road tests are the only type of service for which you can schedule an appointment. For a drivers license test, you can reserve a timeslot by using the convenient online reservation system, where you will be prompted to enter your social security number, date of birth, and telephone number. You may reserve a spot up to 11 weeks in advance. If you wish to cancel an appointment, you must do so at least 24 hours before your reservation time. Road tests for the commercial (CDL) license are provided by private third-party institutions. After passing all requirements, contact your local CDL testing center to lock in an appointment, and be sure to ask about fees beforehand. For any other DMV service, you cannot make an appointment.
Ideal Times to Visit the Wisconsin DMV
Certain days and times are much busier at the DMV than others, and if you visit during peak hours, your trip could end up consuming your entire day. If you want to be served as quickly as possible and settle your DMV needs efficiently, follow these tips whenever possible. Avoid the DMV during peak times such as:
- The lunchtime rush hour – many workers go to the DMV during their break.
- The start and end of the week, Monday and Friday
- The beginning and end of the month
- Right before a major holiday or DMV closure
It’s ideal to visit the DMV during slower periods of the day, such as:
- As soon as the DMV opens in the morning
- The middle of the week, Tuesday to Thursday
- In the middle of the month
Remembering these tips for your next visit may not get you immediately to the front of the line, but it will surely shave precious minutes (and hours) off your DMV experience.
Taking Advantage of Online Services
For most services, you can skip the lines altogether by taking advantage of the Wisconsin DMV’s online services. Many tasks that were once settled directly at the DMV can now be completed at the comfort of your own home via the web. Applying for duplicate licenses, checking eligibility for reinstatement, replacing titles, and changing your address are a few examples of the available online services. However, tasks such as applying for a license or titling your vehicle for the first time are cases that are too sensitive and important to be dealt with online, and you will have to visit the DMV directly to take care of them.
