While some motorists regard driving as a basic right, the fact is that operating a motor vehicle is a privilege that must be earned and maintained by demonstrating safe and lawful driving. Under certain circumstances, an individual's Wisconsin driver's license may be suspended or revoked for a specific length of time, depending on the person's driving record or history, and the particular violation(s).

REASONS FOR DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSIONS

There are a variety of reasons why your Wisconsin driver's license might be suspended. Some of these are related to specific driving violations, while others may be due to violation of other State laws. Following are some of the most common reasons for a Wisconsin driver's license to be suspended or revoked.

• Excessive Moving Violations. The state of Wisconsin operates on a point system in which drivers accumulate points on their license for every moving violation they commit. If you accumulate 12 or more points on your current driver record within any 12 month period, your license will be suspended.
• Driving Under the Influence. Your Wisconsin driver's license will be suspended if you are found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The length of the suspension depends on the severity of the violation and whether it is a first or repeat offense.
• Driving without Insurance. All motor vehicles driven in Wisconsin must be properly insured. Failure to provide proof of valid auto insurance can result in your license being suspended.
• Other Driving-Related Violations. Your Wisconsin driver's license may also be suspended if you engage in reckless driving, are found to be at fault in a fatal accident, or if you use someone else's license (or allow someone else to use your license).
• Failure to settle a financial judgement made against you for damages relating to a motor vehicle accident.
• Giving false information when you apply for a driving license or attempting to change information on your driving license.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR WISCONSIN DRIVER'S LICENSE IS SUSPENDED

Having your Wisconsin driver's license suspended is a serious matter, and it is essential to adhere to State law in the event that your license is suspended. If you believe your license may be suspended due to one of the reasons listed above it is advisable to speak with a traffic ticket lawyer or a DUI-DWI lawyer. The two most important things to be aware of following a license suspension are:

1. If your license has not already been taken away from you in court, you must surrender it to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. You can surrender your license in person at a service center or mail it to:

   Wisconsin Department of Transportation
   Driver Information Section
   4802 Sheboygan Avenue, Room 301
   P.O. Box 7983
   Madison, WI 53707-7983    

2. While your license is suspended, you are not permitted to drive. However, in some cases you may be eligible for limited driving privileges using an Occupational License. Visit the DMV website or call (608) 261-0368 to see if you are eligible to be issued with an occupational license. You must apply in writing before the beginning of the suspension period and include the fee of $50.

APPEALING A SUSPENSION

If you receive a suspension notice from the DMV, and you wish to challenge the suspension, you may request a hearing in court. An administrative law judge will hear your case, and determine whether your driver's license should be suspended or not. In addition, drivers whose license may be suspended due to accumulating excessive points may be eligible to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program. Completing a Driver Improvement Program removes two points from the current driving record, and in some cases can enable an individual to avoid having his license suspended. If your license is suspended, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a traffic ticket lawyer or a DUI-DWI lawyer, based on the reason for the suspension.

RESTORING YOUR LICENSE

If you have a Wisconsin driving license, you can reinstate your license at the end of the suspension period by mailing the restoration fee of $60 (check or money order made payable to Registration Fee Trust) to the following address:

Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Driver Information Section
4802 Sheboygan Avenue, Room 301
P.O. Box 7983
Madison, WI 53707-7983    

If your license was suspended under the safety, responsibility or damage judgement laws after April 9, 2001 you will also need to supply a proof of insurance (SR22) form. A licensed insurance company can supply the form. If you have mislaid your Wisconsin license or it has expired you will need to visit a Division of Motor Vehicles service center. You will need to provide proof of identity and documentary proof that you are a U.S. citizen, legal resident or visitor. You must pay the reinstate fee of $60, together with the $14 replacement license fee or $34 license renewal fee, and supply a proof of insurance (SR22) form.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Check the Wisconsin Point System.
• See also Auto Insurance.
• See also DUI and DUI Attorneys.
• See also Traffic Tickets and Traffic Ticket Attorneys.