MI Traffic Law
Michigan handles traffic citations through its district courts and offers several options for contesting or mitigating violations. The state uses a point system and has unique provisions including the ability to request informal and formal hearings at the Secretary of State office for license-related actions.
Contest My MI Ticket — $4.99Michigan assesses 2-6 points for violations. Speeding 1-10 mph over is 1 point (on limited access highways only), 11-15 mph over is 3 points, 16+ mph over is 4 points. Reckless driving is 6 points. Accumulating 12 points within 2 years triggers a license reexamination. Points remain on your record for 2 years from the date of conviction.
Michigan fines include state costs and fees. Typical speeding fines range from $115 to $280 depending on the jurisdiction and speed. Civil infraction fines are generally lower than misdemeanor traffic offenses. Reckless driving can carry fines up to $500. Michigan Driver Responsibility Fees (additional annual fees for certain violations) were eliminated in 2018.
Michigan offers: requesting a formal or informal hearing before a magistrate, contesting by mail in some jurisdictions, negotiating with the prosecutor for a reduced charge, or requesting a civil infraction hearing. At a formal hearing, the burden of proof is on the government. Michigan also allows delayed sentencing in some cases, which can keep the violation off your record if you remain violation-free for a specified period.
Key Michigan traffic laws include: MCL 257.627 (speed limits), 257.612 (traffic signals), 257.602b (texting while driving), 257.626 (reckless driving). Michigan eliminated its controversial Driver Responsibility Fee program in 2018. The state has specific provisions for snow emergency parking violations in many municipalities.
How many points before reexamination in Michigan?
12 points within 2 years triggers a license reexamination by the Secretary of State.
What is an informal hearing in Michigan?
An informal hearing is a simplified court proceeding where you explain your side to a magistrate without formal rules of evidence. It is less formal than a contested hearing but the magistrate makes a binding decision.
Can I negotiate a traffic ticket in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan courts commonly allow plea negotiations, and many moving violations can be reduced to impeding traffic or other lesser offenses.
Speeding Ticket
Learn more →
Red Light Camera Ticket
Learn more →
Stop Sign Ticket
Learn more →
Parking Citation
Learn more →
HOV Lane Violation
Learn more →
Cell Phone Ticket
Learn more →
Our AI analyzes your citation against MI traffic law and generates a contest letter in under 2 minutes.
Start My Appeal — $4.99← All states · Citation guides · Part of the FightFines.com family