Obtaining Digitized License Photos

Under S343.237(1), (4), (8), only Wisconsin law enforcement agencies and law enforcement agencies of physically adjacent states with reciprocity agreements on file with the State of Wisconsin. Only Iowa and Minnesota have complied with the reciprocity and all requirements.

Your agency FAX number must be provided. We will fax the photos directly to you (photos will not be mailed). Any questions please contact (608) 266-2353.

Requests for digitized photo’s taken after September 15, 1997 by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation should be directed to:

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

Records & Licensing Information Section

P O Box 7995

Madison, WI 53707-7995

Or Faxed to (608) 267-3636

Law Enforcement must provide a request in writing to obtain the photo. The request must be on the law enforcement agency letterhead, and must contain the following:

•      The name of the person whose photo is being requested.

•      The name of the person making the request.

•      The name of the law enforcement agency that employees the requester.

•      A statement signed by the Division Commander giving reason for photo request.

•      A statement that the photo is NOT solely for a photo lineup of photo array.

•      Your office fax number to complete your request.

•      Your e-mail address (optional).

Your agency may obtain a copy of the digitized photo for one of the following reasons:

•      An investigation of unlawful activity.

•      A missing person investigation.

•      The identification of an accident victim.

•      The identification of a deceased person.

Law enforcement must:

1.  Destroy the photo when it is no longer necessary as proof for investigation.

2.  Destroy when identification purpose specified in original request is resolved.

3.  Keep the photo confidential.

•      Only disclose the photo if necessary to perform a law enforcement function.

•      Attach the following statement to the photo:

•      “This photograph is subject to the requirements and restrictions of section 343.237 of the Wisconsin Statutes.”

•      If the photo is released the receiving person must comply with #1 and #2.

Any person that willfully discloses a copy of a photo in violation of 343.237 may be required to forfeit not more than $500 for each violation. Each copy disclosed constitutes a separate offense.