Wisconsin Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Wisconsin has one of the largest deer herds in the United States (world!). There are estimates that one half of all auto accidents are collisions with animals, mostly deer.
It is illegal to use the shoulder to pass a vehicle that is stopped and waiting to make a left hand turn.
Wisconsin State Troopers and a sampling of local and county police officers accept Master Card and Visa charge cards for "on-the-spot" payment of traffic fines.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 65 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail (if a Wisconsin Driver's License has been posted as bond) or in person. Visa/MC are accepted by officer on scene.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
No
Member of Driver License Compact
No (However, Wisconsin still reports all nonresident citations to home state.)
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported immediately to the local authorities.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Financial responsibility law.
Security-type law and future proof-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08 percent.
- Wisconsin has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 1-year driver's license revocation.
- Rifles, shotguns, and handguns must be unloaded and securely cased while in vehicle.
- Studded tires are prohibited.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Wisconsin has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Wisconsin has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 9 years of age. Children under age 4 must use approved car safety seats.
- Wisconsin has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law for persons under 18 years of age and for drivers with a learner's permit.
- Registration and insurance card are not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 608/266-3212
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911