WISCONSIN MOTORCYCLE LAWS
Laws Every Wisconsin motorcyclist should know
Hey there! If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast in Wisconsin or planning to ride through the state, it’s crucial to know the local laws. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Wisconsin motorcycle laws, from licensing requirements to safety gear, penalties for violations, and even weight and size restrictions. Let’s dive in!
Licensing Requirements for Motorcyclists
First things first, if you want to ride a motorcycle in Wisconsin, you’ll need a Class M license. Wisconsin law is pretty strict about this. You can’t hold more than one operator’s license, whether it’s from different states or under different names. This helps keep track of your driving record accurately.
To get your motorcycle license, you’ll need to follow a few steps. Start with a motorcycle instruction permit, practice riding, and then either take a motorcycle skills test or complete an approved rider course. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) offers various courses to help you get the skills you need.
The instruction permit is a great way to get some hands-on experience before hitting the road solo. It allows you to ride during daylight hours and under the supervision of a licensed motorcyclist. This period is crucial for building confidence and learning the ins and outs of motorcycle operation.
Once you feel ready, you can take the skills test or complete a rider course. The skills test assesses your ability to handle a motorcycle safely, including maneuvers like turning, stopping, and swerving. Alternatively, completing an approved rider course can waive the skills test requirement. These courses are designed to teach you everything from basic controls to advanced riding techniques.
To recap, you need a Class M license, and here's how you can get one:
Instruction Permit: Start with a motorcycle instruction permit. To get this, you'll need to pass a knowledge test that covers the basics of motorcycle operation and safety.
Practice Riding: With your permit, you can practice riding. Make sure to follow the restrictions, like not riding at night or carrying passengers.
Skills Test or Rider Course: You have two options to get your full license. You can either pass a skills test or complete an approved rider course. The rider course is a great way to learn essential skills in a controlled environment to become a safer rider.
Wisconsin recognizes valid driver’s licenses from other places. If you’re a nonresident, at least 16 years old, and have a valid license from your home state, you don’t need to get a Wisconsin license to ride your motorcycle here.
Also, if you’re moving to Wisconsin from another state and your driving privileges have been reinstated there, you can apply for a Wisconsin driver’s license. You’ll need to meet certain conditions, like passing any required tests.
So, if you have a valid motorcycle license from another state, you can ride your motorcycle in Wisconsin without any extra hassle.
Motorcycle Equipment
Wisconsin has laws covering what motorcycles are “street legal”. To ride your bike on Wisconsin roadways, your motorcycle must meet certain equipment standards. It must have a working headlight, working taillight, and working brake light, as well as functional turn signals. It must have at least one mirror, usually to the left, but, it’s best to have mirrors on each side, and it must have a workin horn to be loud, and working mufflers to be quiet. Also, the handlebars on your motorcycle can’t be more than 30 inches above the lowest point of the seat when you’re sitting on it. Also, you can't ride with improvised, defective, or repaired handlebars.
Again, your motorcycle must meet certain equipment standards to be road-legal in Wisconsin:
Lights: Your bike needs a working headlight, taillight, and brake light.
Turn Signals: Functional turn signals are required.
Mirrors: You must have at least one mirror.
Horn and Muffler: A working horn and a muffler to control noise levels are also necessary.
Handlebar Height: Can’t be more than 30 inches above the lowest point of the seat you’re sitting on.
It’s the law, but it will also make you safer.
Speaking of safety, let’s talk about gear...
Wisconsin motorcycle Helmet Laws
In Wisconsin, wearing a helmet is mandatory for riders under 18 and those with an instructional permit. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the law. And for a good reason! Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury in case of an accident.
Interestingly, if you don't wear a helmet and get into an accident, it can be considered negligence under common law. This means a jury could decide that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries. So, it’s not just about following the law; it’s about protecting yourself.
So, to recap, When it comes to helmets, Wisconsin has specific rules:
Under 18 or Permit Holders: If you're under 18 or have an instructional permit, wearing a helmet is mandatory.
Over 18: If you're over 18 and have a full license, wearing a helmet is optional but highly recommended for your safety.
All the Gear, All The Time
We’re big proponents of ATGATT, or All the Gear, All the Time. Besides helmets, other safety gear like eye protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear are highly recommended. These items can make a big difference in your safety and comfort while riding. Eye protection, for instance, is crucial for keeping debris and insects out of your eyes, which can be a major distraction and hazard while riding.
Gloves provide better grip and protect your hands in case of a fall. Sturdy footwear, like boots, offers ankle support and protection from the elements and road debris. Wearing a durable jacket and pants made of leather or other protective materials can also help prevent serious injuries in the event of a crash. Wearing brightly colored, reflective vests make you more visible and safer. But, none of that is required.
Motorcycle Lane Use and Lane Splitting in Wisconsin
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as any other vehicle on the road. Motorcycles are entitled to use of the full lane, without worrying about cars crowding you. Wisconsin allows motorcycles to ride side-by-side in the same lane. Wisconsin does not allow lane splitting or lane sharing, just like pretty much every other state in the Midwest, except maybe Missouri, and even then it’s debatable, and who wants to be like Missouri anyway?
Again, in Wisconsin motorcycles have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles on the road:
Full Lane Use: You’re entitled to use a full lane. Cars should not crowd you.
Riding Two Abreast: You can ride side-by-side with another motorcycle in the same lane.
Lane Splitting: Riding between lanes of traffic is not allowed in Wisconsin.
Traffic Laws for Wisconsin Motorcycles
Just like any other vehicle, motorcycles must follow all traffic laws:
Speed Limits: Obey posted speed limits.
Traffic Signals and Signs: Follow all traffic signals and signs.
Signaling: Always use your turn signals when changing lanes or turning.
Wisconsin traffic laws are pretty simple for motorcycles.
Liability Insurance for Wisconsin Motorcycles
In Wisconsin, if you’re riding a motorcycle, you need to have the right insurance. Here’s what you need to know:
Motor Vehicle Liability Policy: You can’t ride your motorcycle on Wisconsin highways without a motor vehicle liability policy. This policy needs to cover at least $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person, $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people, and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident.
Proof of Insurance: Always carry proof of your insurance when you’re riding. If a traffic officer asks for it, you need to show it. This proof can be either printed or in electronic format.
Exceptions: There are some exceptions to the insurance requirement. For example, if your vehicle is covered by a bond, if you’re self-insured, or if the vehicle is owned by a government unit, you might not need the standard insurance.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Every motor vehicle insurance policy in Wisconsin must include uninsured motorist coverage. This means your policy should cover at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident if you’re hit by an uninsured driver.
Exclusions: Some insurance policies can exclude motorcycle coverage. Wisconsin law allows for these exclusions, so make sure your policy covers what you need.
In short, if you’re riding a motorcycle in Wisconsin, make sure you have a liability policy that meets the state’s requirements, carry proof of insurance, and ensure your policy includes uninsured motorist coverage. Be aware that some policies might exclude certain coverages, so check the details.
Motorcycle Passengers in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has some specific rules to keep motorcycle passengers safe and ensure everyone follows the regulations. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Passenger Position: Passengers can’t ride in front of the operator on a motorcycle. They need to sit behind the driver and must be able to rest their feet on the footrests or pegs. Mopeds, by the way, aren’t allowed to carry passengers at all.
Number of Passengers: Generally, only two people can ride on a motorcycle at the same time. This is only allowed if the motorcycle has proper seats and footrests or pegs for both riders, installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Helmet Requirements: If you’re under 18, you must wear a helmet when riding or operating a motorcycle on any highway. Also, if you’re carrying a passenger under 18, they must wear a helmet too.
Off-Highway Motorcycles: If you're riding an off-highway motorcycle, you and your passenger must wear protective headgear unless you’re both over 18. You also need to wear glasses, goggles, or a face shield.
Alcohol and Nitrous Oxide: You can’t operate an off-highway motorcycle if you or your passenger have an open bottle of alcohol or nitrous oxide.
Sidecars: If you have a sidecar, it must be securely attached to the right side of the motorcycle. The sidecar needs to have a tail lamp and stop lamp mounted on the rear.
Safety Standards: All passenger-carrying devices must be designed, assembled, operated, and maintained safely. They should be free of sharp edges, splinters, and other hazards.
Mopeds and Scooters in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, riding mopeds and scooters comes with its own set of rules to keep everyone safe and ensure smooth traffic flow. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Lane Usage: Mopeds must ride single-file in the far right lane on roads with speed limits over 25 mph. They’re not allowed on restricted access highways.
Electric Scooters: You can ride electric scooters on roadways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and bicycle ways, but you can’t go faster than 15 mph. Also, no clinging to moving vehicles or towing sleds!
Roadway Restrictions: Bicycles, electric scooters, and mopeds can’t be ridden on roads where signs say they’re prohibited. When entering a highway, they must yield to motor vehicles.
Lighting Requirements: If you’re riding at night, your bike, motor bicycle, or electric scooter needs a white front lamp and a red rear reflector or reflective tape.
Sidewalk Riding: Electric scooters and personal assistive mobility devices can be ridden on sidewalks, but you must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal when passing.
Slow-Moving Vehicles: Vehicles traveling under 25 mph need a slow-moving vehicle emblem, but this doesn’t apply to mopeds and motor bicycles unless they have a special restricted operator’s license.
Moped Equipment: Mopeds must meet federal emission, equipment, and safety standards. You can’t modify them to increase their maximum speed.
Brakes: Mopeds and motorcycles must have at least one brake that meets specific performance standards.
Instruction Permits: To get a moped or motor bicycle instruction permit, you need to pass a knowledge test. There are also restrictions on carrying passengers.
Prohibited Devices: Certain devices, like ignition interlock devices, can’t be installed on motorcycles and mopeds due to safety concerns.
Definitions: The law defines terms like “moped” and “motor bicycle” and specifies their maximum speeds.
Safety Inspections: Mopeds and motor bicycles must meet specific standards to be used in skills tests.
University Lands: Unauthorized motor vehicles, including mopeds and scooters, can’t be operated off designated roadways on university lands.
Skills Tests: Moped and motorcycle driving skills tests must include a U-turn. There are specific conditions that can cause you to fail the test.
Equipment Standards: Some vehicle equipment standards don’t apply to mopeds and motor bicycles.
Trail Use: Bicycles and electric bicycles can’t be operated during hours of darkness on certain trails unless they have appropriate lighting. Unsafe operation on lands managed by the department is also restricted.
Using Electric Bicycles in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, electric bicycles have their own set of rules that set them apart from other vehicles. Here’s what you need to know:
Rights and Duties: Electric bicycles and their riders have the same rights and responsibilities as regular bicycles. However, there are some exceptions, like not needing financial responsibility, operator’s licenses, registration, or certificates of title. There are also specific rules about where you can ride electric bikes and age restrictions for Class 3 electric bikes.
Definitions and Classes: Electric bicycles are classified into three categories based on how the motor assists and the speed capabilities:
Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
Class 2: Throttle-assist, with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum speed of 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate these.
Equipment Requirements: Manufacturers must label electric bicycles with specific information and ensure they meet federal safety standards. For Class 3 electric bikes, a speedometer is required.
Where to Ride: When riding on bicycle ways, electric bike riders must yield the right-of-way and adhere to speed limits. Local governments can regulate where electric bikes can be ridden and may prohibit them on certain bikeways.
Roadway Rules: Electric bicycles follow the same rules as traditional bicycles on roadways. This includes restrictions on riding side-by-side and yielding to motor vehicles.
Electric Scooters: Electric scooters can be ridden on roadways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and bicycle ways, but they must not exceed 15 mph. Motor vehicles are not allowed to drive on bicycle lanes or ways.
Trail Use: Class 1 and Class 3 electric bicycles can be used on certain trails at speeds less than 15 mph, but they are prohibited on trails that are posted as closed to electric bicycles.
Equipment for Motor Bicycles: Motor bicycles must have brakes, headlamps, horns, mufflers, rearview mirrors, and tail lamps.
Recreational Use Areas: Some areas are designated for non-motorized bicycle use and restrict motorized recreational use.
Exemptions and Registration: Certain off-highway motorcycles are exempt from registration and trail pass requirements under specific conditions. Homemade, replica, street-modified, and reconstructed vehicles have their own registration and inspection requirements.
Park Regulations: Non-licensed vehicles, like mini-bikes and ATVs, are restricted in parks without proper authorization, and there are specific parking regulations.
The main thing you should take away is:
Motor Assist: Electric bikes can provide motor assist up to 20 mph if operated by a throttle or up to 28 mph if assisting a pedaling rider.
No License Required: You don’t need a driver’s license to operate an electric bicycle.
Age Restrictions: No one under 16 years old may operate a Class 3 electric bicycle with throttle power that reaches speeds up to 28 mph
Wisconsin ATV and UTV Laws
While not motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs are also popular in Wisconsin and have specific regulations:
Size and Weight: ATVs must be smaller than 900 pounds and less than 50 inches wide. UTVs can be up to 3,000 pounds and 65 inches wide.
Safety Equipment: UTVs must have a steering wheel, tail light, brake light, two headlights, seat belts, and a roll bar or similar device.
Penalties for Violations
Now, what happens if you break the rules? Wisconsin takes violations seriously. If you’re caught operating a motor vehicle while your license is revoked, you could face fines up to $5,000 and up to 180 days in jail. And there’s no getting out of this unless it’s an emergency.
If you’re caught operating a motor vehicle while under the influence (OMVWI), the penalties get even tougher. A fourth offense can land you in jail for 60 days to a year, and a fifth or subsequent offense is a felony with imprisonment ranging from six months to five years. These strict penalties aim to keep the roads safe by discouraging repeat offenders.
Operating a vehicle while under the influence is a serious offense that endangers not only the driver but also other road users. Wisconsin’s graduated penalties for OMVWI offenses reflect the increasing severity of consequences for repeat offenders. This approach aims to discourage repeat offenses and promote safer driving behaviors.
In addition to fines and imprisonment, OMVWI offenders may face other consequences such as mandatory alcohol or drug assessment and treatment programs, installation of an ignition interlock device (IID), and community service. These measures are designed to address the underlying issues contributing to impaired driving and prevent future violations.
Conclusion
Whether you’re from Sconnie, or you’re here for the Annual Spring Flood Run, the Harley-Davidson Anniversary Homecoming, or the Northwoods Fall Ride, riding a motorcycle in Wisconsin can be a fantastic experience, but it’s crucial to stay informed about the laws and regulations. By following these rules, you can ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, understanding these laws will help you enjoy the ride while staying legal and protected.
If you have any specific questions or need more details, don’t hesitate to reach out. Safe riding!