MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers on June 25 delivered his radio address and highlighted the launch of a new partnership between the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to make it even easier for Wisconsinites to enjoy Wisconsin State Parks. Wisconsinites can now order their annual Wisconsin 12-month state park and forest vehicle admission pass while renewing their annual vehicle registration with the DMV. This partnership is helping connect the dots to help streamline state services for Wisconsin residents and improve government efficiency, while helping to generate consistent revenue for the state.
Previously, state park passes were issued based on the calendar year, but this announcement was made possible by legislation signed by Gov. Evers in 2024 to make the DNR state park pass valid for a full 12 months from the date of purchase, much like Wisconsin’s annual vehicle registration renewal. This ensures that Wisconsinites can enjoy all four seasons of Wisconsin’s state parks, no matter what month of the year their vehicle registration is due.
When Wisconsinites renew their vehicle registration online at wisconsindmv.gov/renew, they will have the option to purchase a state park pass at the same time. After opting in to purchase a state park pass, Wisconsinites will make one payment and receive one mailing with the DNR state park pass, vehicle registration stickers, and Certificate of Registration within 7-10 business days. In addition to the collaboration between DNR and WisDOT, support from the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) Mail Distribution Services combines the agencies’ two mailings into one for further improved efficiency and cost savings. For same-day service, a state park pass will also be available at kiosks within DMVs when completing a registration renewal.
Additional state park vehicle admission passes can be purchased online on the DNR’s Wisconsin State Parks webpage, at individual state park system properties, or from DNR service centers.
