Teen Drivers in Wisconsin: Licenses, Rules and Safe First Cars

Questions answered here

• What does a Wisconsin teen need to get a driver license?

  A Wisconsin teen needs to be at least 16, pass driver education, hold an instruction permit for at least six violation-free months, log 50 hours of supervised driving (10 at night), have an adult sponsor certify those hours, and pass the road test.

• What are the rules for a new teen driver in Wisconsin?

  For the first nine months, or until age 18, a probationary driver may carry any number of immediate family members plus one other passenger. From midnight to 5 a.m., they may drive alone only between home, school and work. Anywhere else at those hours, a parent, guardian or qualified adult must ride in front.

• How do I pick a safe first car for a teenager?

  Start with the list IIHS and Consumer Reports publish together. It sorts used vehicles into Best Choices and Good Choices, with starting prices from under $5,000 to nearly $20,000, and keeps a separate list of new vehicles. Check open recalls on the VIN before you buy.

• What is Wisconsin's car seat and booster seat law?

  Under Wis. Stat. 347.48, children under 1 year or under 20 lbs ride rear-facing. Children 1 to 4 years old and 20 to 40 lbs ride rear- or forward-facing in a car seat. Children 4 to 8 who weigh 40 to 80 lbs and are no taller than 57 inches ride in a car seat or booster. All of these go in a back seat when the vehicle has one.

Swant Graber tools and guides

• First-time car buyer guide
• Used vehicles under $15,000
• How to check recalls by VIN
• Car insurance questions
• Ask Swant Graber: car-buying questions

More buyer and owner answers

• Wisconsin Title & Registration Questions, Answered
• Hit a Deer in Wisconsin? What to Do, Who to Call, What Is Covered
• Wisconsin Road Rules Drivers Ask About
• Car Care Questions: Warning Lights, Tires, Batteries, Oil and Warranty
• Ask Swant Graber: car-buying questions

Questions? Talk to a real person

Call or stop in at either store on Highway 8 in Barron. We are happy to help, even if you are not buying today.