The Wisconsin Point System Explained: How to Keep a Clean Driving Record

For new and experienced drivers alike, receiving a traffic ticket in Wisconsin can be a stressful experience. Beyond the immediate cost of the fine, a conviction for a moving violation adds demerit points to your driving record. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) uses this point system to track driver behavior and identify those who may pose a risk on the road.

Accumulating too many points in a short period can lead to serious consequences, including the suspension of your driving privileges. This guide will explain how the Wisconsin demerit point system works, the point values for common offenses, and how you can maintain a clean driving record from day one.

How the Wisconsin Point System Works

The concept is simple: every time you are convicted of a moving traffic violation, the DMV assesses a specific number of points to your record. The number of points depends on the seriousness of the offense. These points begin accumulating on the date the violation occurred, not the date you were convicted.

The DMV monitors the total number of points you accumulate within any 12-month period.

The Critical Threshold: 12 Points

The magic number to remember is 12. If you accumulate 12 or more demerit points within any one-year "rolling" period, your driver's license will be suspended.

The minimum suspension period for reaching 12 points is two months. The length of the suspension increases with the number of points you accumulate.

• 12-16 points: 2-month suspension
• 17-22 points: 4-month suspension
• 23-30 points: 6-month suspension
• More than 30 points: 1-year suspension

A Special Rule for Probationary Licenses

New drivers who hold a probationary license are held to a much stricter standard. For these drivers, the points assessed for the second and all subsequent moving violations are DOUBLED.

For example, a first conviction for speeding 11-19 mph over the limit is 4 points. If a probationary driver gets a second ticket for the same offense, it will be assessed as 8 points (4 x 2). This system means a new driver can reach the 12-point suspension threshold with as few as two serious tickets.

Point Values for Common Traffic Violations

Here is a breakdown of the demerit points assigned for some common violations in Wisconsin:

6-Point Violations (Most Serious)

• Attempting to flee or elude an officer
• Driving Under the Influence (OWI)
• Reckless driving or racing
• Speeding 20 mph or more over the limit
• Failure to perform duty after an accident (hit and run)

4-Point Violations

• Speeding 11-19 mph over the limit
• Failure to yield the right-of-way
• Inattentive driving
• Driving on the wrong side of the road or a divided highway
• Failure to yield to an emergency vehicle

3-Point Violations

• Speeding 1-10 mph over the limit
• Failure to obey a traffic signal or stop sign
• Illegal turn or U-turn
• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driving with an expired license

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record?

The record of the conviction for most traffic violations remains on your driving record for five years. For more serious offenses, like an OWI, the conviction stays on your record for 55 years or even for life. However, the points themselves are what trigger a suspension, and the DMV looks at the total accumulated in any 12-month period.

Can You Reduce the Points on Your Record?

Yes. In some cases, you can reduce the number of active points on your record.

• Traffic Safety Course: You may be eligible to take an approved traffic safety course to reduce your point total by three points.
• Limitations: This option is typically available only once every three years.

How to Keep Your Driving Record Clean

The best way to deal with the point system is to avoid it altogether.

1. Be a Defensive Driver: Always be aware of your surroundings, anticipate the actions of others, and maintain a safe space cushion around your vehicle.
2. Know the Rules: Thoroughly understanding traffic laws, especially right-of-way and speed limits, is your best defense against tickets.
3. Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away and focus completely on the task of driving.
4. Don't Rush: Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination to avoid the temptation to speed or make aggressive maneuvers.

By understanding the Wisconsin point system and committing to safe driving practices, you can protect your driving privileges and keep your insurance rates down. A clean record is the mark of a responsible driver.