Consumer Protection: Wisconsin DMV adds new security process, alert option to deter fraud

During National Consumer Protection Week (March 2-8, 2025), the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) explains its new verification process and alert tool to help consumers protect their identities.

Verification process:
Wisconsin DMV recently implemented a new automated identity verification process to help protect customers from potential fraud. The new safety feature is available on several DMV applications. It compares a person’s selfie photo, taken in the moment, with their photo on file with the DMV, as a method to verify the customer’s identity.

When a customer wants to order a replacement (duplicate) driver license or ID card, for example, the customer opens the DMV application on a device that has a camera and then takes a selfie photo. If the image matches the customer’s photo on file with the DMV, the customer can continue with the application. A non-match will prevent the individual from using the online application. This new verification process provides an extra layer of protection for Wisconsin residents from an unknown attempt at identity theft.

“This simple step to verify a customer’s identity in real time will ensure the integrity of all Wisconsin DMV products,” DMV Deputy Administrator Corey Kleist said. “Our team has worked hard to implement this innovative tool and we’re already seeing reduced incidents of fraud.”

Account alerts:
Consumers can also get account activity alerts and receive confirmation of transactions taking place on their DMV account when they sign up for DMV’s eNotify, wisconsindmv.gov/eNotify. Enrolled customers will receive a text or email alerting them of activity on their account. This can help avoid fraudulent activities, such as an unwanted change of address or someone else ordering a replacement driver license or ID.

“Just like your banking and other online accounts, you can add a layer of protection to your DMV information.” DMV Deputy Administrator Corey Kleist said. “eNotify is a free, added safety component. If there is any kind of change to your DMV record, you’re going to get a text or email that could signal a fraud attempt.”

Besides the alerts, eNotify also provides customers with renewal reminders for their plate, driver license or ID. If the renewal notification seems off-cycle, a customer can visit wisconsindmv.gov and confirm.

More than one million Wisconsin residents have enrolled in eNotify.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.