The issue date on a Wisconsin driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) issues licenses valid for 8 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and what every field on your Wisconsin license means.

Where to find the issue date on a Wisconsin driver's license

On the current Wisconsin DMV license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when Wisconsin DMV issued your current card. Because licenses are valid for 8 years, the gap between ISS and EXP is wider than in most states. Renewing your license resets ISS while your license number stays the same.

Date fields on a Wisconsin driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Wisconsin licenses are valid for 8 years for most adult drivers. The license expires on your birthday.

What does DD mean on a Wisconsin driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued, even if your license number stays the same. Banks, rental companies, and identity systems use it to confirm card authenticity.

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Restrictions on a Wisconsin driver's license

Wisconsin licenses display restrictions in the RSTR field. Common codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No expressway or freeway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only

Wisconsin REAL ID

Wisconsin offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Wisconsin license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and federal facilities. To get a Wisconsin REAL ID, visit a Wisconsin DMV Service Center in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Wisconsin address.

How to renew a Wisconsin driver's license

Wisconsin DMV offers online renewal at dot.wi.gov for eligible drivers. Online renewal is available if you do not need a new photo and your information has not changed. In-person renewal at a Wisconsin DMV Service Center is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions.

How to find your original Wisconsin licensing date

The ISS date shows when your current card was issued, not your original licensing date. To find your original date, request a Wisconsin driving record through the DOT website or in person at a DMV Service Center.