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WI SB455
WI SB455Eligibility for an occupational license for individuals with four or more convictions of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.
summary
Introduced
09/29/2025
09/29/2025
In Committee
09/29/2025
09/29/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
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. LRB-4083/1 ZDW:ajk&cjs 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 455 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 A person whose operating privilege has been revoked under these circumstances is not eligible for an occupational license.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 licenses for individuals with multiple operating while intoxicated (OWI) convictions by changing the eligibility requirements for occupational licenses. Currently, individuals with three or more OWI-related convictions face license revocation, but this bill specifically addresses those with four or more lifetime convictions. Under the new provisions, instead of a permanent license revocation, such individuals would become eligible for an occupational license after 180 days, provided they have completed a required assessment and are following a driver safety plan. The bill also maintains requirements for ignition interlock devices for these drivers, which means any occupational license would be restricted to vehicles equipped with a breathalyzer-style device that prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected. Importantly, the bill allows for potential full license reinstatement after 10 years, offering a path for rehabilitation while still maintaining significant penalties for repeated OWI offenses. These changes aim to balance public safety concerns with providing opportunities for individuals to maintain employment and access essential transportation.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (7)
Eric Wimberger (R)*,
Barbara Dittrich (R),
Joy Goeben (R),
Dan Knodl (R),
Paul Melotik (R),
Dave Murphy (R),
Pat Snyder (R),
Last Action
Representative B. Jacobson added as a cosponsor (on 02/11/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb455 |
| BillText | https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/proposaltext/2025/REG/SB455.pdf |
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