Did you know that receiving a traffic ticket in Wisconsin can lead to a suspended license?
Since Wisconsin follows a point system, getting too many traffic violations can lead to limited driving privileges, expensive auto insurance premiums, and even difficulty landing a job.
So, to keep track of your points and license status, request a copy of your Wisconsin driving record.
But how?
Today, we’re going to give you a complete 2023 guide on how to get your driving record in Wisconsin. Plus, we’ll answer some questions that you might have.
Let’s get started!
How Can I Use My Wisconsin Driving Record?
The Wisconsin DMV at the Department of Transportation (DOT) provides a comprehensive driving record for driving history, traffic violations, license status, and accidents.
Wisconsin’s driving records are typically used to adjust car insurance policies, background checks, and court proceedings.
What are the Types of Wisconsin Driving Records?
There are three (3) types of driving records in Wisconsin:
- Certified Driving Record
- Used for official purposes such as government agencies and court proceedings.
- This record isn’t available for request online.
- Non-certified Driving Record
- Non-certified records are available for personal use.
- Online Driving Record Abstract
- You can request your own driving record abstract online.
How Do I Request My Wisconsin Driving Record?
Your Wisconsin driving record is available upon request:
- Online
- In-person
- By mail
Let’s look into the details on how to request through each of these.
Online
Your Wisconsin online vehicle record is available for download through the Wisconsin DOT DMV website.
To get a copy of your online driver abstract, you need to provide your complete vehicle identification number (VIN). This includes your WI driver’s license number, social security number, and date of birth.
To successfully process your request, you need to pay the record fee of $5, plus a convenience fee for credit/debit card companies.
After that, you need to wait for a confirmation message. From there, you’ll be able to access your driving record sent through your email.
In-person
For requests made in person, visit your local Wisconsin DMV office and submit the completed Vehicle / Driver Record Information Request (MV2896). Make sure to bring the appropriate fees (depending on the type of record you’re requesting). You can find the fees in the request form.
Note: pay with check or money order made payable to the Registration Fee Trust.
In the form, you will need to provide your personal information and indicate the type of record you want to request. If you are requesting the record of another Wisconsin driver, you need to provide written consent and certify the purpose of use.
The steps are the same as when you request in person. Only this time, you don’t go to a DMV office, you simply send the form and payment to:
WisDOT
P.O. Box 7995
Madison, WI 53707
Note: for requests made in person or by mail, you will receive your driving record in the mail.
So there you have it. That was how to request your driving record online, in person, or by mail. Pretty easy, right?
Understanding the Wisconsin DMV Points System
Moving traffic violations will merit points on your WI driving record according to the severity of the violation. If you get at least six points on your WI driving record within 12 months, you will receive a warning letter.
Wisconsin drivers who get 12 or more points within 12 months will have their license suspended. Your driver’s license type will determine the requirements and time frame of limited driving privileges.
Getting 12 or more points on a probationary license or instruction permit can lead to half a month or a year’s worth of suspension. Getting 12 or more points on a regular driver’s license and a commercial driver’s license can lead to a two-month up to a year’s suspension of your license.
The good news is that you can reduce your traffic points by three with a state-approved Wisconsin traffic safety course or defensive driving course. You’re allowed to take it once every 3 years.
Note: some violation points cannot be reduced by this course.
Note II: You need to ask permission from your local DMV if you can take this course to remove points.
Benefits to A Traffic Safety Course in Wisconsin
With a Wisconsin traffic safety course, drivers can:
- Reduce demerit points on their record
- Fulfill a court-ordered requirement
- Avoid auto insurance premium increase
- Improve defensive driving skills and knowledge
What is the Best Wisconsin Online Traffic School?
Wisconsin drivers can opt for the fastest and easiest method to take this course. This is through online traffic schools.
State-approved online traffic schools are often the preferred choice for court-ordered and voluntary drivers. Aside from being convenient, online traffic school is more affordable, too.
Speaking of online traffic schools in Wisconsin, the best has to be GoToTrafficSchool.
This online traffic school allows you to fulfill the court-ordered 2-hour Failure To Yield course 100% online. You may also be eligible for point reduction, insurance discounts, and ticket dismissal.
The best thing about the GoToTrafficSchool curriculum is that it’s fast and easy. You can access all learning materials on any device, 24/7. This makes it manageable and convenient.
People love the study materials, including the comprehensive text chapters, full audio narration, animations, and videos. There are even test simulations and practice quizzes to help prepare for the final exam.
Upon passing the final exam, GoToTrafficSchool will immediately send your electronic completion certificate to the Wisconsin DMV.
What’s more, GoToTrafficSchool makes learning easy with its reliable customer support team. You can trust them for any technical or course concerns through live chat, phone, or email.
Conclusion
Have you received traffic tickets in Wisconsin?
It’s always a good idea to keep track of your demerit points by getting a copy of your Wisconsin driving record. Remember, you can easily request a copy online, in person, or by mail.
If you’re almost in trouble with your driving privileges suspended or revoked, traffic safety courses can help. It can do all these for you:
- Fulfill a traffic violation court order
- Reduce your traffic points
- Dismiss a traffic ticket
- Get an auto insurance discount
- Improve your defensive driving skills and WI traffic law knowledge