Wisconsin Legislative Council
ACT MEMO
One Ea st Ma in Stre e t, Suite 401 • Ma dison, W I 53703 • (608) 266-1304 • le g.council@le gis.wisconsin.gov • http://www.le gis.wisconsin.gov/lc
Prepared by: David Moore, Senior Staff Attorney December 13, 2023
2023 Wisconsin Act 44
[2023 Senate Bill 123]
Exemptions From Requirement
That Original Driver’s License be
a Probationary License
The Department of Transportation (DOT) must generally issue a probationary license to all qualified
applicants for an original driver’s license. A probationary license expires two years after the applicant’s
next birthday. The requirement that DOT issue a probationary license to all qualified applicants for an
original license does not apply with respect to any of the following:
Any person moving to this state who has been licensed in another jurisdiction, who presently holds
a license, other than an instruction permit, from another jurisdiction which has not expired for
more than six months and who has passed the person’s 21
st
birthday.
An applicant for a commercial driver’s license.
A person entitled to a regular license under a foreign license reciprocity agreement.
2023 Wisconsin Act 44 provides that the requirement that DOT issue a probationary license to all
qualified applicants for an original license also does not apply with respect to any person who provides
documentary proof to DOT that the person is enlisted in the U.S. armed forces.
Effective date: December 8, 2023
For a full history of the bill, visit the Legislature’s bill history page.
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