Traffic Enforcement Penalties

If you are caught driving without a valid drivers license then

Driving without a license in Minnesota is a misdemeanor. Penalties can include up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

When you operate a vehicle without proof of insurance

All drivers must carry liability insurance. Failing to show proof can lead to suspension and reinstatement fees.

If you accumulate four traffic violations within 12 months

The Minnesota DPS monitors frequent violations, and multiple offenses can trigger a suspension or mandatory education.

When you are convicted of DWI for the first time

First-time DWI offenders with a BAC of 0.08 or more face license revocation, fines, and possible jail time.

If you refuse to take a blood, breath, or urine test

Under Minnesota’s Implied Consent Law, refusing chemical testing results in immediate administrative penalties.

When a minor is caught for drinking and driving. They may face

Minnesota enforces a zero-tolerance law for underage drinking and driving, regardless of BAC level.

If you are caught speeding more than 100 MPH

Excessive speeding is treated as a serious offense with automatic license revocation and increased penalties.

When convicted for fleeing a police officer, you may

Fleeing law enforcement is a criminal act with severe consequences, including long-term loss of driving privileges.

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident fail to stop

Failing to stop and provide assistance or information at the scene is illegal and subject to jail and license loss.

When found guilty for reckless or careless driving

Minnesota distinguishes between careless (negligent) and reckless (willful disregard) driving, both with serious penalties.

If your license is suspended

Reinstating a license may involve fees, insurance proof (SR-22), and attending driver improvement courses.

When caught driving with a suspended license

Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license carries heavier penalties and may extend the suspension period.

If you are ticketed for running a red light or stop sign

Running signals is a moving violation that can raise insurance rates and add points to your driving record.

When you violate school bus stop-arm laws

Failing to stop for a school bus with its stop arm extended endangers children and carries enhanced penalties.

If you drive in a manner endangering others (aggressive driving)

Aggressive or road-rage behaviors such as tailgating or erratic lane changes can lead to criminal charges.

When you commit a work zone violation

Minnesota enforces double penalties for speeding or unsafe driving in construction or maintenance zones.

If you are convicted of multiple DWIs

Repeat DWI offenders face increased jail time, higher fines, license cancellation, and ignition interlock device mandates.

When you cause a crash due to distracted driving

Distracted driving that leads to injury or damage can lead to criminal charges, lawsuits, and insurance surcharges.

If you are caught texting while driving

Minnesota bans all handheld device use while driving. Fines increase significantly for second and third offenses.

When you are involved in a crash and fail to report it

Drivers must report crashes involving injury, death, or $1,000+ damage. Failure to do so is a punishable offense.