March 20, 2025

By Lane Kimble

Teenagers working toward their driver’s license can now accomplish a mandatory step anywhere, anytime.

The Division of Motor Vehicles announced Friday it launched an online option for students to take their knowledge test.

The test is required after taking driver’s education, but before a student can receive their learner’s permit and get behind the wheel.  It surveys a student’s understanding of basic rules of the road and how to handle various situations such as yielding to pedestrians, hydroplaning, and passing a bicyclist.

The online test costs $10, which goes to a third-party vendor that runs similar testing for 11 other states.

Taking the knowledge test in-person at a DMV is still free.

WTBA also encourages young drivers to take the free online Work Zone Safe Wisconsincourse as part of their driver’s education program.  More than 2,000 people have successfully completed the course since its launch in April 2024.

Each month, WTBA awards a student who completed the course with a $500 scholarship check, sponsored by Wisconsin County Highway Association.