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Milwaukee Traffic Citation Penalty Lawyer

What Is the Demerit Point System in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin uses a demerit point system to track traffic violations. When a driver accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-month period, their driving privileges may be suspended. Understanding how this system works can help you make informed decisions if you receive a citation. The number of points added to your record depends on the severity of the offense.

Common Moving Violations and Their Point Values

Do You Get Points for Non-Moving Violations?

Most non-moving violations, such as parking tickets or vehicle equipment issues, result in a fine but do not typically add points to your license. However, there are exceptions. For example:

  • A broken speedometer – 2 points

  • Unlawful window tint – 2 points

Even for lower-point violations, it's important to understand the long-term impact on your driving record. If you're cited, consulting with a Milwaukee traffic lawyer at Bayer Law Offices can help you avoid unnecessary penalties. Call our Milwaukee defense lawyer at (414)-939-9650 or contact us online.

Types of Penalties for Traffic Violations in Wisconsin

Penalties Based on Your Driver’s License Type

The type of license you hold determines the penalty severity and suspension period.

If You Have a Probationary Driver License, Instruction Permit or Have Never Been Issued a License: 

  • 12-30 points assessed – 6 month suspension
  • More than 30 points assessed – 1 year suspension

If You Have a Regular Driver License Including a Commercial Driver License (CDL):

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

Penalties for Failure to Yield in Wisconsin

Wisconsin imposes specific consequences for Failure to Yield violations. These penalties depend on the outcome of the incident and may include mandatory education and license suspension.

If Convicted of Failure to Yield 

  • No injury or minor injury: Must complete a Right-of-Way course within 6 months or face up to a 5-year license suspension

  • Great bodily harm caused: 3-month license suspension

  • Fatal accident: 9-month license suspension

Completing the required course is essential to maintain your driving privileges.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record in Wisconsin?

Traffic points remain on your Wisconsin driving record for five years from the date of the violation. The state calculates point accumulation based on the violation date — not the conviction date. Some violations may qualify for removal after five years, depending on the outcome and type of citation. Wisconsin allows drivers to complete state-approved traffic safety courses once every three years to reduce the number of points on their record.

What Happens If You’re Caught Driving Without a License?

In Wisconsin, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle without a valid driver’s license. If stopped by law enforcement, the consequences vary based on your license status.

Penalties May Include:

  • A fine, and possibly jail time, for individuals driving without having ever been licensed

  • A fine of around $200 if you have a valid license but it’s not in your possession (this fine may be waived if you later present your license to law enforcement)

In any case, it’s important to speak with a Milwaukee traffic citation lawyer if you are charged with driving without a license.

Contact a Milwaukee Traffic Lawyer at Bayer Law Offices

Traffic citations can carry more weight than you think. Accumulated points, license suspensions, and increased insurance rates can all affect your life long-term. If you’ve received a ticket or are concerned about demerit points or license penalties, contact Bayer Law Offices today for a free consultation. We serve clients across Milwaukee County and southeastern Wisconsin.

Wisconsin uses a demerit point system to track traffic violations. When a driver accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-month period, their driving privileges may be suspended. Understanding how this system works can help you make informed decisions if you receive a citation. The number of points added to your record depends on the severity of the offense.

Common Moving Violations and Their Point Values

Do You Get Points for Non-Moving Violations?

Most non-moving violations, such as parking tickets or vehicle equipment issues, result in a fine but do not typically add points to your license. However, there are exceptions. For example:

  • A broken speedometer – 2 points

  • Unlawful window tint – 2 points

Even for lower-point violations, it's important to understand the long-term impact on your driving record. If you're cited, consulting with a Milwaukee traffic lawyer at Bayer Law Offices can help you avoid unnecessary penalties. Call our Milwaukee defense lawyer at (414)-939-9650 or contact us online.

Types of Penalties for Traffic Violations in Wisconsin

Penalties Based on Your Driver’s License Type

The type of license you hold determines the penalty severity and suspension period.

If You Have a Probationary Driver License, Instruction Permit or Have Never Been Issued a License: 

  • 12-30 points assessed – 6 month suspension
  • More than 30 points assessed – 1 year suspension

If You Have a Regular Driver License Including a Commercial Driver License (CDL):

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

Penalties for Failure to Yield in Wisconsin

Wisconsin imposes specific consequences for Failure to Yield violations. These penalties depend on the outcome of the incident and may include mandatory education and license suspension.

If Convicted of Failure to Yield 

  • No injury or minor injury: Must complete a Right-of-Way course within 6 months or face up to a 5-year license suspension

  • Great bodily harm caused: 3-month license suspension

  • Fatal accident: 9-month license suspension

Completing the required course is essential to maintain your driving privileges.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record in Wisconsin?

Traffic points remain on your Wisconsin driving record for five years from the date of the violation. The state calculates point accumulation based on the violation date — not the conviction date. Some violations may qualify for removal after five years, depending on the outcome and type of citation. Wisconsin allows drivers to complete state-approved traffic safety courses once every three years to reduce the number of points on their record.

What Happens If You’re Caught Driving Without a License?

In Wisconsin, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle without a valid driver’s license. If stopped by law enforcement, the consequences vary based on your license status.

Penalties May Include:

  • A fine, and possibly jail time, for individuals driving without having ever been licensed

  • A fine of around $200 if you have a valid license but it’s not in your possession (this fine may be waived if you later present your license to law enforcement)

In any case, it’s important to speak with a Milwaukee traffic citation lawyer if you are charged with driving without a license.

Contact a Milwaukee Traffic Lawyer at Bayer Law Offices

Traffic citations can carry more weight than you think. Accumulated points, license suspensions, and increased insurance rates can all affect your life long-term. If you’ve received a ticket or are concerned about demerit points or license penalties, contact Bayer Law Offices today for a free consultation. We serve clients across Milwaukee County and southeastern Wisconsin.

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