In Wisconsin, points are not just a score—they are a countdown clock to losing your license.
Unlike other states, Wisconsin enforces a strict “12 in 12” rule: if you accumulate 12 demerit points in any 12-month period, your license is automatically suspended. For Probationary Drivers (graduated licensing), the rules are even harsher—your points are doubled for every ticket after your first one.
Most drivers assume they have to pay a fee to see their status. This is often unnecessary.
This guide will show you how to check your license status for free, the exact suspension tiers (it’s rarely a full year), and the “Traffic School Trick” to remove points from your record immediately.
How to Check Your Points Online (Free vs. Paid)
You have two options depending on what you need. Do not pay for a full report if you just want a quick status check.
Method 1: The Free “Status Check” (Best for Quick Looks)
If you just want to know “Is my license valid?” and “Do I have points?”, use the free government tool.
- Visit: WisDOT Driver License Status Check.
- Enter: Your Driver License Number, Date of Birth, and Zip Code.
- Don’t have your DL number? You can use your Name and SSN instead.
- Result: The screen will show “Valid” or “Suspended” and typically lists your current point total at the bottom.
- Cost: $0.00
Method 2: The Official “Abstract” (Best for Insurance/Jobs)
If you need a printed document for an employer or insurance company, the free screen isn’t enough. You must buy your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
- Visit: WisDOT Purchase Own Record.
- Pay: $5.00 (plus a small convenience fee).
- Download: You receive a PDF “Abstract” that lists every ticket, accident, and point for the last 5 years.
The Wisconsin Point System Schedule
Knowing exactly what a ticket costs you is the first step to saving your license.
| Violation | Points Added |
| Speeding (1-10 mph over) | 3 Points |
| Speeding (11-19 mph over) | 4 Points |
| Speeding (20+ mph over) | 6 Points |
| Failure to Yield | 4 Points |
| Running a Red Light/Stop Sign | 3 Points |
| Reckless Driving | 6 Points |
| Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) | 6 Points (+ Revocation) |
⚠️ The “Probationary License” Trap
If you hold a Probationary License (Class D, usually new drivers), Wisconsin law is extremely strict:
- First Ticket: Normal points.
- Second & Future Tickets: POINTS ARE DOUBLED
Example: A standard 4-point speeding ticket becomes 8 points. Two tickets can easily put you over the 12-point limit and trigger a 6-month suspension.
Suspension Tiers: How Long Will You Lose Your License?
If you hit 12 points, you don’t necessarily lose your license for a year. The length depends on your total score.
| Total Points (Regular License) | Suspension Length |
| 12 – 16 Points | 2 Months |
| 17 – 22 Points | 4 Months |
| 23 – 30 Points | 6 Months |
| 30+ Points | 1 Year |
Important: If your license is suspended, the clock doesn’t start until you hand in your physical card or mail it to the DMV. If you need to drive to work during this time, you may be eligible for an “Occupational License.” See our guide on how to reinstate license online in Wisconsin for application steps.
How to Remove Points (The “Traffic School” Trick)
You can lower your point total before you get suspended.
- The Solution: Enroll in a Traffic Safety School (TSS) course approved by WisDOT.
- The Reward: Completing the course removes 3 Points from your record.
- The Rules:
- You can only do this once every 3 years.
- You must send your completion certificate to the DMV.
- Warning: If you are already suspended, taking the course might reduce your time, but it won’t always cancel the suspension.
How to Check by Phone
If you cannot access the internet or need to discuss a specific error on your record, you can speak to a representative.
- Official WisDOT Driver Service Line: (608) 264-7447
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
- Email: You can also use the Email Inquiry Form on the WisDOT site for non-urgent questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Points “expire” for suspension purposes 12 months from the VIOLATION date (not the conviction date). However, the conviction stays visible on your record for insurance purposes for 5 years.
The DMV mails warning letters when you hit 6 points, but only if they have your current address! If you moved recently, the letter likely went to your old home. You should update your details immediately using our Wisconsin DMV address change guide to ensure you get future warnings.
Yes. Wisconsin is a member of the Driver License Compact. If you get a ticket in Minnesota or Illinois, it will likely appear on your Wisconsin record.
You cannot just wait for the time to pass. You must eventually pay a Reinstatement Fee. We recommend booking a Wisconsin DMV appointment or handling it online to clear the hold as soon as your time is up.
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