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Bill > AB463


WI AB463

WI AB463
Eligibility for an occupational license for individuals with four or more convictions of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.


summary

Introduced
09/26/2025
In Committee
02/18/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

Potential new amendment
2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill provides that a person whose operating privilege has been permanently revoked for having four or more convictions of certain offenses related to drunken driving or driving under the influence of an intoxicant or other drug (OWI offenses) is eligible for an occupational license after the first 180 days of the revocation period have elapsed. The bill requires that the occupational license restrict the applicant[s operation under the occupational license to vehicles that are equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device. Under current law, the Department of Transportation may revoke or suspend a person[s operating privilege if the person commits certain traffic offenses or crimes, including operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The period of revocation varies depending on the reason for the revocation. Courts may also order suspensions of operating privileges as part of the adjudication of an underlying criminal or traffic offense. A person whose operating privilege is suspended or revoked may apply for an occupational license, which restricts when and where the person is allowed to drive. There is a waiting period before a person is eligible for an occupational license, the length of which depends on the underlying violation. Current law requires DOT to permanently revoke the operating privilege of a person who has committed four or more OWI offenses. A person whose operating privilege has been revoked under these circumstances is not eligible for an occupational license.

AI Summary

This bill modifies Wisconsin law regarding driver's license revocation for individuals with multiple Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) offenses by allowing those with four or more OWI convictions to become eligible for an occupational license after 180 days, instead of being permanently barred from obtaining one. The bill requires that any occupational license granted under these circumstances must restrict the driver to operating only vehicles equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device, which is a breathalyzer-style device installed in a vehicle that prevents the car from starting if the driver's breath alcohol content is above a preset limit. Currently, individuals with four or more OWI convictions are permanently prohibited from obtaining any driving privileges, but this legislation creates a pathway for limited driving rights after serving an initial 180-day revocation period, contingent upon the driver completing a required assessment and complying with a driver safety plan. The changes aim to balance public safety concerns with providing opportunities for rehabilitation and mobility for individuals with multiple drunk driving offenses, while still maintaining significant restrictions on their driving privileges.

Committee Categories

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (7)

Last Action

Referred to committee on Rules (on 02/18/2026)

bill text


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