The Baraboo DMV location and hours

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles office in Baraboo is located at 410 Oak Street, Baraboo, WI 53913. This is a full-service DMV office, meaning you can handle driver's license renewals, vehicle registration, title transfers, and address changes in person at this location.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. Because wait times can vary, arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines than late afternoon or Friday visits.

Baraboo is in Sauk County, and this office serves residents across the county who need in-person DMV services. If you live closer to another Wisconsin DMV office, you can use that location instead — Wisconsin residents can visit any DMV office in the state for most transactions.

Key Takeaways

  • The Baraboo DMV is at 410 Oak Street and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a lunch break from noon to 1:00 p.m.
  • You can renew your driver's license, register a vehicle, transfer a title, or change your address at this location without an appointment.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residence, and any documents related to your specific transaction — requirements vary by service.
  • Wisconsin allows you to use any DMV office in the state, so you can visit a different location if it is more convenient.
  • Many common transactions can also be completed online or by mail through the Wisconsin DMV website, which may be faster than an in-person visit.

What documents to bring for a driver's license renewal

If you are renewing your Wisconsin driver's license in person at Baraboo, bring your current license or ID card. You will also need to provide proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. A government-issued photo ID from another state or country is acceptable if your Wisconsin license has expired.

Wisconsin offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses. If you want a REAL ID license (required for federal building access and domestic air travel after May 7, 2025), you must bring proof of citizenship — a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers — plus proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form. A standard license does not require these extra documents.

Bring your Social Security number in writing or memorized. The Baraboo office will take your photo and signature during the renewal process, so you do not need to bring a photo. Vision screening happens at the office as well.

What documents to bring for vehicle registration and title work

For vehicle registration, bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, and proof of residence. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in Wisconsin, you will also need the title from your previous state (if the vehicle was registered elsewhere) or a bill of sale if you purchased it from a private seller.

Title transfers require the signed title from the previous owner, proof of purchase (bill of sale or receipt), and proof of residence. If the vehicle title is held by a lender, you may need a lien release document from that lender. Wisconsin titles are issued by the DMV, so the Baraboo office can process this and issue your new title on the same day in most cases.

Bring your proof of insurance card or a declaration page from your insurance company. Wisconsin requires all registered vehicles to carry liability insurance, and the DMV verifies this before completing registration.

Address changes and other common transactions

To change your address on your Wisconsin driver's license or ID card at the Baraboo office, bring your current license and proof of your new address. You do not need to renew your license to change the address — the DMV will issue you a new card with the updated information. This usually takes a few minutes and costs a small fee.

You can also change your vehicle registration address at the same visit. Bring your current registration card and proof of your new address. Wisconsin allows you to change your address online through the DMV website for both your license and registration, which is often faster than visiting in person.

Other services available at the Baraboo office include duplicate license or ID card replacement, name changes on your license, and vehicle title corrections. Each service has its own document requirements, which the DMV staff can explain when you arrive.

Alternatives to visiting Baraboo in person

Wisconsin offers online services through its DMV website for many common transactions. You can renew your driver's license online if you meet certain requirements — your license must not be expired by more than five years, you must not have changed your name or address, and you must not need a REAL ID upgrade. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about 10 days for your new license to arrive by mail.

Vehicle registration renewal can also be completed online or by mail. The DMV sends renewal notices to your address on file, and you can renew through the website or by returning the form with payment. This is often faster than visiting an office, especially if you do not need to make changes to your registration.

Address changes for both your license and vehicle registration can be done online through the Wisconsin DMV website. Mail-in options are also available for some transactions — the DMV website lists which forms you can submit by mail and where to send them. Using online or mail options means you avoid waiting in line and can complete the transaction on your own schedule.

What to expect when you arrive at the Baraboo office

When you enter the Baraboo DMV, you will typically take a number from a dispenser near the entrance. The office has a waiting area with seating. Wait times vary depending on the day and time — mornings and mid-week days are usually less busy than afternoons and Fridays. During peak times, you may wait 30 minutes to an hour.

When your number is called, you will go to a service window where a DMV employee will review your documents, answer questions, and process your transaction. Bring all required documents with you — if you are missing something, the employee will tell you what you need and you may have to return another day. Some offices can scan documents you email or bring on your phone, but it is safest to bring physical copies.

Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at the Baraboo office. Fees vary by transaction — a driver's license renewal costs around $30 to $50 depending on the type, and vehicle registration renewal costs vary based on vehicle weight and type. The DMV staff will tell you the exact fee before you pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment at the Baraboo DMV?

Wisconsin DMV offices, including Baraboo, do not offer appointment scheduling. You arrive during business hours and take a number for the next available service window. Arriving early in the day or on a Tuesday or Wednesday typically means shorter waits than other times.

What if I do not have proof of residence?

Proof of residence must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and current address. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, you can bring a bank statement, mortgage statement, or government mail. If you have none of these, contact the Baraboo office to ask what alternative documents they accept.

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than five years?

No, you cannot renew online if your license expired more than five years ago. You must visit the Baraboo office in person for a full renewal. Bring your expired license, proof of residence, and proof of citizenship if you want a REAL ID license.

How long does it take to get a new title after a transfer?

In most cases, the Baraboo office issues your new title the same day you complete the transfer. You will receive it in the mail within a few days. If there are complications with the title or lien release, the process may take longer — the DMV staff will let you know if this applies to your situation.

Is the Baraboo office the only DMV location in Sauk County?

Yes, Baraboo is the only full-service DMV office in Sauk County. However, you can visit any Wisconsin DMV office for your transaction, so if another location is more convenient, you can go there instead.