Losing your license in Wisconsin is more than just an inconvenience—it can cost you your job. Whether you were suspended for unpaid tickets or revoked for an OWI, the path back to the road isn’t always clear.
Many drivers make the mistake of simply paying the $60 reinstatement fee, assuming that instantly fixes the problem. It usually doesn’t.
If you have an OWI, you may need an alcohol assessment. If you have unpaid fines, you need a court release. And if your license is revoked (not just suspended), you might have to take your driving test all over again.
This guide will show you how to check your official WisDOT eligibility status, how to apply for an Occupational License to drive to work immediately, and the exact steps to clear your record.
Step 1: Check Reinstatement Eligibility (WisDOT Online Tool)
Before you pay a dime, you must find out exactly why you are suspended. Wisconsin provides a specific online tool for this.
- Go to the WisDOT Portal: Visit the official Reinstatement Eligibility Inquiry page.
- Enter Details: You will need your Driver’s License Number (or SSN) and Date of Birth.
- Read the Report: The system will show you a list of “Requirements.”
- Look for specific holds: “Alcohol Assessment Required,” “Pay Reinstatement Fee,” or “Damage Judgment.”
Pro-Tip: If the system says “Not Eligible,” it will tell you the exact date you become eligible. Mark this on your calendar.
Suspended vs. Revoked License: What is the Difference?
Your reinstatement process depends entirely on which word appears on your driving record.
- Suspended License: Your license is temporarily frozen.
- The Fix: Usually, you just clear the hold (e.g., pay the ticket) and pay the reinstatement fee. You keep your current physical license card.
- Revoked License: Your license has been terminated (Dead).
- The Fix: You must wait out the revocation period. Then, you must re-apply for a new license, take the Written Test, take the Road Test, and pay for a new card.
How to Get an Occupational License (Drive While Suspended)
If your suspension is longer than a few weeks, do not risk driving illegally. You should apply for an Occupational License.
- What it is: A restricted paper license that lets you drive to work, school, or church (up to 60 hours/week).
- Cost: $50 (Application Fee) + $40 (Issuance Fee).
- Eligibility Wait Times:
- 1st OWI: Usually eligible immediately.
- 2nd OWI: Eligible after 45 days.
- Points Suspension: Eligible after 15 days.
- How to Apply: You must visit a DMV Service Center in person with a completed Form MV3027 and proof of insurance.
OWI Reinstatement Requirements: AODA & Ignition Interlock
If your license was lost due to an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), the process is more complex. You must complete these four steps:
- Alcohol Assessment (AODA): Schedule an assessment with a verified provider in your county.
- Driver Safety Plan: You will be assigned a plan (e.g., Group Dynamics traffic safety school). You must legally agree to this plan.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If required (mandatory for repeat offenders or High BAC), you must have the device installed and show the certificate to the DMV.
- SR-22 Insurance: You must file proof of high-risk insurance.
SR-22 Insurance Wisconsin: Rules for High-Risk Drivers
Most revocations (and some suspensions) require you to prove “Financial Responsibility” for the future.
- What is an SR-22? It is a certificate your insurance company files with the state proving you have valid liability coverage.
- Duration: You typically must keep this on file for 3 years.
- Cost: The filing fee is small (~$25), but your insurance premiums will likely increase significantly.
- Warning: If you miss a payment, the insurance company notifies the DMV, and your license will be suspended immediately.
Wisconsin DMV Reinstatement Fees & Payment Options
The fees vary based on your offense. You can pay these online via the WisDOT portal.
| Fee Type | Amount |
| General Reinstatement Fee | $60.00 |
| OWI Reinstatement Fee | $200.00 |
| Occupational License Fee | $50.00 |
| Duplicate License (if lost) | $14.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions (Retesting & Court Holds)
Yes, if you have cleared all your holds (paid the courts, finished assessments). If the online system says “Not Eligible,” you cannot pay online yet.
Only if your license was Revoked or expired for more than 8 years. If it was only Suspended, you do not need to retest.
Yes. If your reinstatement requirement lists “Proof of Financial Responsibility,” you must buy a “Non-Owner SR-22 Policy” to get your license back, even if you don’t own a vehicle.
Electronic reporting usually takes 24 to 48 hours. If you pay a court fine on Friday, do not expect to be reinstated at the DMV until Tuesday or Wednesday.
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