Most states penalize drivers who violate traffic and criminal laws while operating a motor vehicle by restricting, suspending, or revoking the driver’s license. For example, a state may suspend a driver’s license upon refusal to submit to a blood or breath test when suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or when a driver is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

And most states have a traffic ticket points system that assigns points to traffic offenses—with more serious offenses receiving more points. The points a driver accumulates become a part of the driver’s record with the state and a specified number of points will lead to greater driver’s license penalties—including suspension of the driver’s license—as well as higher insurance premiums charged by insurance companies.

The use and structure of traffic ticket point systems vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes.

In Wisconsin, the Department of Transportation (WisDOT) operates a demerit point system for drivers who violate traffic laws. Under this system, points are assigned for various traffic offenses, with more serious violations incurring a higher number of points. For instance, operating while intoxicated (OWI) or refusing to submit to a chemical test when suspected of OWI can result in immediate license suspension. Accumulating 12 or more points within a 12-month period will lead to the suspension of the driver's license. The length of the suspension depends on the total points and the specific violations. Additionally, drivers under the age of 18 can have their license suspended for accumulating just 6 or more points within a 12-month period. The points system is designed to identify and take action against high-risk drivers, and it also affects insurance premiums, as insurers may increase rates for drivers with higher points on their records. The specifics of the point system and related penalties are outlined in Wisconsin's statutes, particularly in Chapter 343 of the Wisconsin Statutes.