Wisconsin Requirements
Wisconsin has a variety of penalties for alcohol-based driving offenses, or OWI (operating while intoxicated). This guide will explain how the ignition interlock device (IID) process works in Wisconsin.
DEVICES AVAILABLE - If you need to install a device to meet your state requirements, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an installation appointment.
The WI Ignition Interlock Program
All offenses will result in the offender’s driver’s license being suspended for some time. However, offenders can apply for a license reinstatement right away, as long as they were not involved in an accident during the course of their OWI offense. Often, an ignition interlock device is required as a condition of regaining driving privileges.
Wisconsin allows offenders to apply for an occupational license immediately after a conviction for OWI, as long as the offender installs an interlock device Wisconsin approves. The occupational license does limit where offenders can drive.
What Happens if I Get an OWI in Wisconsin?
First OWI Offense
- License revoked for six to nine months
- $150-$300 in fines, plus $435 OWI surcharge
- Fines increase to $350-$1,110 if a minor under 16 is present at the time of the offense
- If BAC is above .15, an IID or 24/7 sobriety program is required for one year
- No jail time, unless a minor is present, which could mean five days to six months in jail
- Must install an IID to regain driving privileges, can apply immediately for an occupational license
Second OWI Offense (No Prior OWI Within 10 Years)
- License revoked for six to nine months
- $150-$300, plus $435 OWI surcharge
- Fines increase to $350-$1,110 if a minor under 16 is present at the time of the offense
- No jail time, unless a minor is present, which could mean five days to six months in jail
- IID or 24/7 sobriety program is required for one year, can apply immediately for an occupational license
Second OWI Offense (With Prior OWI Within 10 Years)
- License revoked for 12 to 18 months plus time spent in confinement
- $350-$1,110 fine, plus $435 OWI surcharge
- Fines increase to $700-$2,200 if a minor is present
- Five days to six months in jail, or 10 days to 12 months if minor is present
- IID or 24/7 sobriety program is required for one year to 18 months
- If a minor is in the car, IID or 24/7 monitoring is required for two to three years plus time of confinement
- Must wait 45 days to apply for an occupational license
Third OWI Offense
- License revoked for two to three years plus the length of confinement
- 45 days to one year in jail, or 90 days to two years if minor is present
- $600-$2,000 fine
- Fine increases to $1,200-$5,000 if a minor is present
- IID or 24/7 sobriety program required for one to three years plus confinement length, or four to six years plus confinement length if a minor is present
- Must wait 45 days to apply for an occupational license
What Happens if I Refuse a BAC Test in Wisconsin?
Refusing a BAC test will not allow any offender to get away without consequences. A refusal to submit to a test will result in a license revocation of at least one year, and an interlock device or 24/7 sobriety program is required for a year as well. This length of time may increase if there is a minor in the vehicle or if it’s a repeat incident. First-time offenders who refuse a test have to wait 30 days to apply for an occupational license, and longer if it’s a repeat offense.
How Do I Get an Occupational License in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin allows OWI offenders to regain driving privileges with an occupational license. This license limits where and what type of vehicle offenders can drive. To get an occupational license, offenders must:
- Serve the required amount of their suspension period
- Pay all required fines
- Show proof of SR-22 insurance
- Show proof of IID installation
- Complete any court-ordered treatment programs
Depending on prior offenses and circumstances of the offense, the offender may need to complete additional criteria to qualify.
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Thank you, a State Specialist will contact you in the next few minutes to guide you through the IID requirement and process.
Thank you, a State Specialist will contact you during business hours to guide you through the IID requirement and process.
The Process: What to Expect
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Consult with Legal Counsel
Seek guidance from a DUI lawyer to understand your legal options and rights following a DUI violation.
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Get an Assessment
Complete a court-ordered or voluntary assessment to evaluate your risk level and determine any required interventions.
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Obtain Proof of SR-22 Insurance, If Required
If applicable, provide proof of financial responsibility and insurance coverage with an SR-22 certificate.
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Schedule Interlock Install
Speak to our State Specialists to schedule your IID installation to meet court or state requirements.
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Regular Monitoring
Your ignition interlock usage will be regularly monitored to maintain compliance with legal requirements.
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Device Removal
After fulfilling your IID requirement and receiving approval from your monitoring authority, you can arrange to have your ignition interlock device removed at your local service center.
Interlock Cost Wisconsin
Expert OWI Attorneys in Wisconsin
Garuz Crawford, LLC
Waukesha, WI 53186
Grieve Law, LLC
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Law Office of Aaron M. Krzewinski SC
Oconto, WI 54153
Nelson Defense Group, LLC
Hudson, WI 54016
Wisconsin FAQs
Ignition interlock devices are often required following a drunk driving conviction (OWI). The device is installed in your vehicle and prevents somebody from starting their car after consuming alcohol. You are required to blow into the mouthpiece to test your Breath Alcohol Concentration (BrAC) before starting your car. For more information see our what is an interlock page.
If you've been convicted of a repeat OWI offense of a first offense with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in Wisconsin. To view Wisconsin IID requirements, please visit the Wisconsin state page.
Intoxalock will match any competitor's monthly lease rate in Wisconsin. For additional pricing information, see Wisconsin pricing or call us today.
Intoxalock can walk you through the process to install your ignition interlock device. For additional information, please visit the Wisconsin state page to learn what steps you need to take to get back on the road. Our representatives are available 24/7 to answer your questions and schedule your installation appointment for you.
To learn more about the steps to regaining your license, please visit our Wisconsin state page.
Intoxalock has more installation locations in the state of Wisconsin than any other interlock provider. Our representatives are sure to find a location near your home or work. To find the Wisconsin Intoxalock service center closest to you, please call us today or visit our Wisconsin ignition interlock installation locations.
The only way to confirm you are eligible to remove the device is to check with your monitoring authority.
Contact your monitoring authority to ensure you are eligible for removal.
Please visit the Wisconsin state page to learn about other OWI requirements. In addition, our representatives are available by phone 24/7 to help answer your questions.
For pricing information, see the Wisconsin pricing page.
To find an OWI attorney in Wisconsin, please visit Intoxalock’s Wisconsin attorney partners page.
To find a treatment center, please visit Intoxalock’s Wisconsin alcohol treatment centers page.
To see how an ignition interlock device works, visit our ignition interlock page and watch our video demonstrating how to use the device.
Intoxalock makes the ignition interlock device process easy, convenient and affordable. If you are interested in learning more about ignition interlock devices, please visit our ignition interlock device page.
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Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.
