How do I register to vote in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin pairs same-day registration with strict photo voter ID, creating a unique combination of accessibility and verification.

1. Eligibility (Wis. Const. art. III; Wis. Stat. § 6.02)

U.S. citizen.

18 years old by Election Day.

WI resident for 28 days at the address.

Not currently serving a felony sentence, including probation, parole, or extended supervision (Wis. Stat. § 6.03(1)(b)). Rights restored upon off-paper discharge.

Not declared incompetent.

2. How to Register

Online: myvote.wi.gov (requires WI DL/ID with current address matching DOT records).

Paper: mail to municipal clerk.

In person at the clerk's office: until 5 p.m. on the Friday before Election Day.

Election Day Registration (Wis. Stat. § 6.55) at the polling place with proof of residence (WI DL, state ID, utility bill, bank statement, paystub, lease, etc.).

3. Deadlines

Online and mail: 20 days before Election Day.

In-person at clerk's office: through the Friday before Election Day.

Election Day Registration: at the polling place.

4. ID Requirements

WI DL/ID for online; SSN last 4 acceptable on paper.

Photo ID required at the polls (Wis. Stat. § 5.02(6m)) — WI DL, state ID, military ID, US passport, naturalization certificate, tribal ID, or qualifying student ID (must meet specific criteria including signature and 2-year expiration).

5. College Students

Many student IDs do not meet WI requirements — students should obtain a separate voter-compliant ID or a free state ID. Out-of-state students with 28-day WI residence may register and vote.

This is legal information, not legal advice.