In Wisconsin, a traffic violation conviction could result in points being placed on your driver’s license. If you accumulate a specific amount within a given timeframe, you could lose your driving privileges. But what happens if you are convicted of a traffic offense in another state? Are points still assessed?
No Points for Out-of-State Convictions
Wisconsin does not place points on your driver’s license if you receive an out-of-state traffic conviction. However, the Department of Transportation (DOT) will enter the information on your driving record. For most offenses, the data remains there for 5 years. However, if you were convicted for operating while intoxicated, your record will be affected for life, which is defined as 55 years.
Loss of Driving Privileges for Out-of-State Offenses
Although points might not be assessed to your driver’s license for a traffic violation committed in another state, it could still be suspended, revoked, or disqualified (for commercial driver’s license holders).
The Wisconsin DOT will evaluate your offense to determine its equivalence in the state. If the violation was one that results in loss of driving privileges, the penalty will be assessed even though the offense occurred elsewhere. Additionally, if you have a driver’s license that is valid in another state, you still cannot legally drive in Wisconsin if you lost your operating privileges here.
Offenses which result in a mandatory loss of driving privileges include:
- Operating a vehicle while intoxicated
- Eluding or attempting to elude law enforcement
- Failing to provide aid after an accident that resulted in death, bodily harm, or injury
- Causing injury, great bodily harm, or death while operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- Lying or making false statements to officials
- Driving recklessly
- Operating a vehicle during the commission of a felony
Schedule Your Free Consultation with the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella
Our attorney has been practicing law for over 20 years and has provided effective defense for a variety of cases. If you were charged with a traffic offense in Milwaukee or surrounding areas, reach out to our firm today for help fighting the ticket.
For focused and dedicated legal service, call us at (414) 882-8382 or contact us online.