Wisconsin OWI Costs (2026)
State-specific OWI cost calculators, law summaries, and guides for Wisconsin.
Calculate your Wisconsin OWI costOn our estimates, a typical first-offense OWI in Wisconsin costs about $17,681, the 25th highest of the 50 states (median of our state estimates: $17,615). Use the calculators below for your own situation.
Wisconsin OWI Key Facts
Wisconsin OWI Calculators
Wisconsin OWI FAQ
How much does an OWI cost in Wisconsin?
Add up the fine ($150-$300), attorney fees (our estimate: $1,500-$6,000), insurance, ignition interlock, education, reinstatement and time off work, and our calculator puts a typical first-offense OWI in Wisconsin at about $17,681, within a range of $8,646 to $28,250, using its default answers. Use the calculator for an estimate based on your own situation.
What is the legal OWI term in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin uses the term "OWI" for impaired driving offenses. The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults, with enhanced penalties at 0.15% BAC.
How long is your license suspended for a first OWI in Wisconsin?
A first-offense OWI in Wisconsin carries a license suspension of 270 days, and a second offense carries a license suspension of 1 year (540 days). Whether you can keep driving on a restricted license during that time is covered below.
Is an ignition interlock device required in Wisconsin?
In some cases. Wisconsin requires an interlock for a first offense only at a BAC of 0.15% or higher, or if you refused the test. When it applies, it lasts 12 months. We estimate the monthly cost at about $80.
Does Wisconsin require SR-22 insurance after an OWI?
Yes. Wisconsin requires SR-22 high-risk insurance filing for 3 years following an OWI conviction. We estimate the typical premium increase at 30-90%.
When does an OWI become a felony in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, an OWI becomes a felony on the fourth offense (lifetime lookback). Other factors, such as an injury, can also change how a case is charged; an attorney can tell you how they apply in Wisconsin.
Can an OWI be expunged in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin does not allow OWI convictions to be expunged. Some states have other ways to limit who can see a record, such as sealing, which this site does not cover yet; an attorney in Wisconsin can tell you whether any apply.
How long do you have to request a license hearing after an OWI arrest in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, you have 10 days from the date of the suspension notice to request a hearing on your license (Wis. Stat. § 343.305(8)(b)1). The notice you received at arrest gives the exact date.
How long does Wisconsin have to charge you with an OWI?
In Wisconsin, the state generally must file OWI charges within 3 years of the alleged offense. This deadline reflects a first-offense misdemeanor OWI; felony cases can carry a different filing window. If you are charged, an attorney can confirm how the deadline applies to your case.
Can you get a hardship or restricted license after an OWI in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin generally offers a hardship or restricted license that can let you keep driving for work, school, or treatment during part of an OWI suspension. Eligibility and conditions depend on your offense level and the court, so confirm the current rules for your situation.
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