Politics
Wisconsin Voting Alert Today: Free IDs Available Before Nov. 3
Madison, WI – Wisconsin residents preparing to vote in the November 3 election are being reminded that qualifying identification is required at the polls, but obtaining an acceptable ID does not have
By Mara Ellison · 2026-10-12T16:31:54.235Z
Madison, WI – Wisconsin residents preparing to vote in the November 3 election are being reminded that qualifying identification is required at the polls, but obtaining an acceptable ID does not have to cost anything.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation WisDOT , the Division of Motor Vehicles issued a reminder Monday, October 12, explaining how eligible voters can obtain identification free of charge before Election Day.
The announcement, also shared by the Dunn County Sheriff 's Office, emphasizes that Wisconsin voters do not need a special voter ID or a federally compliant REAL ID card to cast a ballot.
Several forms of identification may qualify, including Wisconsin driver's licenses, state identification cards, certain military identification cards and qualifying student IDs.
However, residents should verify that their identification meets Wisconsin's voting requirements before heading to the polls.
Free Identification Available Through DMV
WisDOT says eligible residents who need identification for voting purposes can begin the application process online or visit a local DMV Customer Service Center.
Applicants should review the required documentation before visiting. Wisconsin also offers a free process through which eligible U.S. citizens who lack certain documents can obtain a temporary identification receipt valid for voting while their application is processed.
The reminder comes as Wisconsin approaches the November 3 general election, giving residents time to review their identification and address potential issues.
Voters can check acceptable forms of identification and obtain election information through the Wisconsin Elections Commission at elections.wi.gov .
Residents needing assistance with obtaining an ID for voting can contact the DMV's toll free voter ID hotline at 844 588 1069 .
Applications and DMV service center information are available at wisconsindmv.gov , including office locations, operating hours and wait times.
With Election Day approaching, Wisconsin officials encourage residents to check their identification early rather than wait until they arrive at the polls.