Wisconsin Driving Records

Driving records in Wisconsin are essential documents that provide a detailed overview of a driver's history. They highlight aspects such as traffic violations, accidents, and license status.

For individuals, these records can significantly impact insurance rates, employment opportunities, and various legal matters. For businesses, particularly in the transportation sector, accurate driving records are critical for making informed hiring decisions and adhering to regulatory requirements.

Wisconsin’s Open Records Law governs the availability of driving records in the state. This law ensures that the public has access to important government-held information while balancing privacy concerns. It outlines the parameters for information sharing and aligns with both state and federal confidentiality standards.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), through its Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), oversees the management of driving records. They handle record requests, address corrections and disputes, and uphold the integrity of Wisconsin's driving record system.

In this role, the Wisconsin DMV must skillfully balance the rights to public access with the necessity of privacy protections mandated by the Open Records Law.

Types of Driving Records Available in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers three distinct types of driving records to meet various needs and official requirements. Each record type serves a specific purpose and contains different levels of detail.

Understanding these options helps individuals and organizations choose the most appropriate record for their particular situation. Below are the key features and uses of each driving record available in Wisconsin.

Certified Driving Record

This comprehensive record is designed for official purposes, such as court proceedings and government agency use. The record bears an official seal, provides a complete history of driving-related incidents, and contains detailed information, including:

Driver's full name, address, and date of birth
License number
Traffic violations
Accidents
Suspensions, revocations, and other official actions

This record type is not available for online requests and must be obtained through official channels, typically requiring proper authorization and documentation.

Non-Certified Driving Record

Non-certified records are intended for personal use and provide a summary of an individual's driving history. These records contain similar information to certified records but lack the official seal.

They include basic personal information, license status, and a list of violations and accidents. Non-certified records are often used for employment purposes, insurance quotations, or personal reference. While not admissible in court, these records offer a comprehensive overview of a driver's history.

Online Driving Record Abstract

The online driving record abstract offers a convenient way for individuals to access their own driving information quickly. This streamlined version provides essential details such as license status, recent violations, and basic personal information. It is designed for personal reference and informal use.

Drivers can request this abstract through the Wisconsin DMV's online portal, making it the most accessible option. While less comprehensive than the other types, it offers a quick snapshot of a driver's record for immediate reference or verification purposes.

How To Request a Wisconsin Driving History Report?

In addition to an in-person visit to a DMV customer service center, Wisconsin motorists have two primary methods for obtaining their driving records or driving history reports: online and by mail. Each option has specific requirements and provides different levels of detail in the records.

Online Request

Drivers can access their driving records through the WisDOT website using the Driver Record-Entry online service. This method is convenient but limits the information provided.

To use this service, individuals must have the following:

Wisconsin driver's license or ID Card number (or full name and complete Social Security Number)
Last four digits of Social Security Number (if using license number)
Date of birth and gender
Computer or mobile device with a camera (for identity verification purposes)
Valid email address
Adobe Reader 6.0 or higher (to view and print the digital record)
Payment of $5 (credit/debit card/PayPal with a fee, or checking/savings account to avoid service/convenience fees)

Note that online driving records do not include:

Complete driver history (e.g., issue dates, restriction changes)
Certification for court use
ID card information
Certain juvenile records (convictions, withdrawals for alcohol, and truancy)

Mail Request

For a more comprehensive record or a certified copy, drivers must submit a request by mail. This method provides access to confidential information not available through the online system.

To request by mail, motorists should download and complete the Vehicle/Driver Record Information Request (Form MV2896).

They also need to include payment of $7 for a non-certified record or $12 for a certified record, making the check or money order payable to "Registration Fee Trust." The completed form and payment should be sent to the following address:

Driver Records

WisDOT

P.O. Box 7995

Madison, WI 53707-7995

Uses of Wisconsin Driving Records

Wisconsin's driving records, governed by the Federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), serve the following purposes while safeguarding individual privacy:

Personal access: Individuals can access their own driving records or those of their minor children for transparency in record-keeping.
Government entities: Courts and law enforcement agencies use these records to carry out their official duties.
Business sector: Legitimate companies can access records to verify information or prevent fraud. Researchers can analyze data for statistical purposes while maintaining confidentiality.
Insurance companies: These records are used for processing claims, anti-fraud measures, and underwriting decisions.
Licensed private investigators and security services: They can access driving records within the guidelines of the DPPA.
Employers: They may verify commercial driver’s license (CDL) details.
Toll facilities: They use records for operational purposes.

The DPPA strictly regulates the use and disclosure of personal information, and unauthorized use can potentially result in penalties from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and civil damages in Federal Court.

Understanding Wisconsin Driving Laws

Motorists in Wisconsin must possess comprehensive knowledge of the state's driving laws to ensure legal compliance, promote road safety, and mitigate the risk of incurring substantial fines and severe consequences. The following are the critical driving regulations in Wisconsin and their associated penalties:

Driver's License Laws and Penalties

Wisconsin Statute (Wis. Stat.) Section 343.44(2) outlines the illegality of driving with a suspended license. Suspensions, typically lasting under a year, can stem from various infractions such as repeated traffic violations or alcohol-related offenses.

The repercussions for violating this law range from monetary penalties of $50 to $200 for civil infractions to criminal charges resulting in fines up to $2,500 and possible incarceration.

In instances involving harm to property or individuals, the charges may escalate to felonies, potentially leading to fines reaching $10,000 and imprisonment for up to six years. The specific circumstances surrounding the offense determine the severity of the punishment imposed.

Speed Limit Laws and Penalties

Wis. Stat. Section 346.57 delineates the state's approach to speed regulation, encompassing both situational and fixed speed limits. The law mandates that drivers adjust their speed to suit current conditions for safe travel.

Fixed limits vary by location, from 15 miles per hour (mph) in school zones to 70 mph on designated freeways. Violators face fines ranging from $30 to $300, with increased penalties for repeat offenses within a 12-month period.

Speeding in construction or school zones may result in doubled fines. Moreover, each infraction adds demerit points to the driver's record, adversely affecting driving privileges and insurance premiums.

Reckless Driving Laws and Penalties

Under Wis. Stat. Section 346.62, reckless driving is characterized as a vehicle operation that jeopardizes safety or risks property damage. This encompasses behaviors such as extreme speeding, aggressive driving tactics, and forcing other vehicles off the road.

The consequences of reckless driving are tiered based on the severity of the offense. Initial offenses without resulting injuries may incur fines between $50 and $400. Subsequent violations can lead to increased fines of up to $1,000 and potential jail sentences.

Instances resulting in bodily harm carry more severe financial penalties and possible imprisonment. In cases of grave injuries, the offense is elevated to a Class H felony, which can result in up to six years of incarceration and a $10,000 fine.

OWI/DUI Laws and Penalties

Wis. Stat. Section 346.63 strictly prohibits operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). The law sets blood alcohol content (BAC) limits at 0.08% for most drivers and 0.04% for commercial operators.

Penalties for OWI offenses become increasingly severe with repeated violations. First-time offenders typically face fines ranging from $100 to $300, license suspension, and mandatory participation in substance abuse assessment programs.

Subsequent offenses result in steeper fines, extended license suspensions or revocations, and potential imprisonment. Additional sanctions apply for high BAC levels, refusal of chemical testing, or the presence of underage passengers.

Wisconsin also implements stringent zero-tolerance policies for underage drivers involved in OWI incidents.

Auto Insurance Laws and Penalties

Wisconsin law requires all motorists to maintain minimum liability coverage, including $25,000 for individual bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for multiple injuries, and $10,000 for property damage.

Operating a vehicle without proper insurance is considered a significant violation. Penalties for uninsured driving include a $500 fine, license suspension, and the obligation to file an SR-22 certificate.

In cases where an uninsured driver is involved in an accident, the consequences escalate to suspension of both driver's license and vehicle registration until all claims are resolved or alternative arrangements are made.

Reinstating driving privileges following such violations necessitates either fulfilling SR-22 requirements for a three-year period or refraining from driving for one year, along with payment of associated reinstatement fees.

The Point System in Wisconsin

Wisconsin utilizes a demerit point system to monitor traffic violations and promote safe driving. The Wisconsin DMV assigns points based on court-reported offenses, with 12 or more points in a year resulting in license suspension.

Severe violations like eluding an officer or DUI carry 6 points, while moderate offenses such as inattentive driving or speeding 11-19 mph over the limit incur 4 points. Minor infractions like failing to dim headlights or tailgating are assigned 3 points.

In Wisconsin, commercial drivers and motorcyclists face specific assessments.

Penalties and Remedies for Accruing Points On A Driving Record

Penalties escalate with point accumulation based on violation dates. Probationary, instructional, or unlicensed drivers receive double points for repeat offenses. Suspension periods vary as follows:

For instruction permit, probationary license, or no license:

12 to 30 points: six-month suspension
Over 30 points: one-year suspension

For regular driver's license or CDL:

12 to 16 points: two-month suspension
17 to 22 points: four-month suspension
23 to 30 points: six-month suspension
Over 30 points: one-year suspension

Drivers can reduce their total by three points by completing an approved traffic safety course once every three years, potentially lifting suspensions for those with 12-14 points.

Motorcyclists can also decrease points through specialized courses. Most convictions remain on records for five years, with some persisting longer.

Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Wisconsin

Wisconsin categorizes driving offenses into two main types: criminal offenses and civil infractions. Criminal offenses are more severe and carry penalties such as fines, jail time, or both. Civil infractions, while less serious, can still result in monetary penalties and potential license suspension.

Criminal Driving Offenses

Wisconsin law classifies criminal driving offenses as either felonies or misdemeanors. Felony offenses carry severe consequences, reflecting the gravity of the violation. For instance, vehicular homicide due to negligence, classified as a Class G felony, can result in up to 10 years of imprisonment or a $25,000 fine.

Repeat offenders face escalating penalties. For example, a fourth OWI offense within five years is considered a felony, potentially leading to substantial fines and extended incarceration.

While less severe, misdemeanors also carry significant criminal implications. A prime example is the negligent operation of a vehicle, a Class A misdemeanor. This offense can result in a fine of up to $10,000, a jail term of up to 9 months, or both. Other misdemeanors include first-time OWI offenses and hit-and-run incidents not causing significant bodily harm.

Wisconsin's "three-strikes" policy further emphasizes the state's commitment to road safety by imposing progressively harsher punishments on habitual offenders.

Civil Driving Offenses

Civil driving offenses in Wisconsin, often called traffic infractions, encompass minor violations of road rules and local ordinances. While these offenses do not result in criminal charges, they can still have significant consequences.

The WisDOT employs a point system to track and penalize these infractions. Here are some specific examples of civil driving offenses and their penalties:

Speeding (1-10 mph over the limit): $30 fine and three demerit points
Failure to yield right-of-way: $175 fine and four demerit points
Improper passing: $200 fine and three demerit points
Following too closely: $200 fine and three demerit points
Failure to fasten seat belt: $10 fine (no points)

Accumulating 12 or more points within a 12-month period can result in license suspension. Additionally, these violations may lead to increased insurance premiums and could affect overall driving privileges if left unaddressed or if infractions accumulate over time.

Wisconsin Driving Statistics and Goals

The Transportation Research and Improvement Program (TRIP), a national transportation research nonprofit, has reported a concerning trend in Wisconsin's traffic fatalities over the past decade.

From 2013 to 2023, the state experienced an 8% increase in traffic deaths, with fatalities rising from 543 to 584. This trend aligns with a broader national pattern that saw U.S. traffic fatalities increase by 25% during the same period.

Despite this overall increase, Wisconsin has shown some improvement in recent years. After reaching a peak of 620 fatalities in 2021, the state managed to reduce this number by 6% by 2023.

However, the economic toll of these tragedies remains substantial. In 2023 alone, fatal and serious traffic crashes in Wisconsin resulted in an estimated $33.2 billion in societal costs, comprising $8.2 billion in economic costs and $25 billion in quality-of-life costs.

To combat this issue, Wisconsin has established ambitious goals as part of its "Zero in Wisconsin" traffic safety campaign.

The state aims to reduce annual traffic fatalities to fewer than 500 by 2030, with the ultimate objective of eliminating all preventable deaths on Wisconsin roadways.

To achieve these targets, WisDOT is implementing various strategies, including enhancing road design, bolstering law enforcement efforts, and promoting public awareness about safe driving practices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Driving Records

Below are common questions about Wisconsin driving records. These inquiries cover accessing, correcting, and managing driving history information.

How To Use Online Systems for Driving History Requests?

Wisconsin's Public Abstract Request System (PARS), launched in November 2013, innovates access to driving and vehicle records.

The collaborative effort between the Wisconsin DMV and the National Information Consortium (NIC) Wisconsin, formerly known as Wisconsin Interactive Network, has resulted in the establishment of this secure and efficient online platform.

To access PARS, applicants must prove eligibility under the DPPA. Upon approval, users receive credentials for the web interface, enabling swift retrieval of various record abstracts. Users can obtain results almost instantly by inputting specific identifiers like license numbers or vehicle identification numbers (VINs).

A standout feature of the system is the complimentary Employer Notification service. This tool automatically alerts businesses to changes in employees' driving records, including operational tier shifts and Federal Medical Card status updates.

For support related to inquiries, account setup, or troubleshooting, users can email wi_helpdesk@egov.com or call (608) 250-4606 during business hours.

How To Correct an Error on a Driving Record?

When drivers discover errors in their driving records, particularly regarding out-of-state convictions, they should contact WisDOT at (608) 266-2261. WisDOT will investigate and correct any mistakenly entered information. If the records are deemed accurate, drivers may need to contact the convicting court in the other state to address the issue.

For in-state convictions, individuals can request a copy of their driving record for review. If errors are found, supporting documents such as court records or dismissal notices should be gathered and submitted to the Wisconsin DMV, along with a written explanation.

Simple personal information errors can often be corrected by visiting a Wisconsin DMV customer service center with proper identification. More complex issues may require filing a formal dispute with the Wisconsin DMV.

Can Traffic Violations on Driving Records Be Expunged or Sealed?

Wisconsin's process for removing traffic violations from driving records is complex and often restricted.

Courts typically reject requests to seal or expunge convicted traffic-related felonies and misdemeanors, which, depending on severity, remain on records for years. However, there's more flexibility for acquittals or dismissed charges, where courts may consider sealing requests.

Even for non-convictions, removal isn't automatic. Courts weigh factors like violation severity, time elapsed, overall driving record, and public interest. While sealing limits public access, some agencies may retain access for official purposes.

Those seeking to clean their driving records should consult a legal professional familiar with Wisconsin's traffic laws and expungement procedures for personalized advice.

Helpful Links and Resources

Individuals can enrich their knowledge about Wisconsin driving records and related topics through the following materials:

Wisconsin driving record request procedures and requirements: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/online-srvcs/other-servs/request-record.aspx
"Driver Licensing Abbreviation Codes with Charge and Points" (BDS108): https://wisconsindot.gov/Documents/dmv/shared/bds108.pdf
Overview of Wisconsin’s PARS system: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/rcd-crsh-rpt/pars.aspx
Wisconsin DMV weekly fatality report: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/statistics/fatality.aspx

Counties in Wisconsin

List of Content

Types of Driving Records Available in Wisconsin
How To Request a Wisconsin Driving History Report?
1. Online Request
2. Mail Request
Uses of Wisconsin Driving Records
Understanding Wisconsin Driving Laws
The Point System in Wisconsin
1. Penalties and Remedies for Accruing Points On A Driving Record
Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Wisconsin
1. Criminal Driving Offenses
2. Civil Driving Offenses
Wisconsin Driving Statistics and Goals
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Driving Records
Helpful Links and Resources