Wyoming Traffic Violation Records

Although some traffic violation records are held by some courts in the Wyoming court system, traffic records in the state are primarily maintained by the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). These records generally include traffic citations, convictions, fines, and other penalties.

Speeding violations are among the most common infractions in Wyoming. More than 12% of drivers in the state have a prior speeding violation on their driving record. This is higher than the 10.54% national average. Note that as part of its efforts to lower traffic violation rates in the state, Wyoming suspends driver's licenses for 90 days if they commit four moving violations within 12 months.

Are Traffic Violations Records Public in Wyoming?

Traffic violation records in Wyoming are generally considered public records and may be accessed by the public. Also, under the Wyoming Public Records Act, most court records, including those related to traffic violations, are classified as public records. Hence, records of offenses such as traffic misdemeanors and felonies handled by the municipal and circuit courts are open to the public and may be requested by interested persons.

While many traffic violation records are public, certain records may be restricted or confidential, such as those involving juveniles or sealed cases. In addition, the federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act restricts state DMVs from releasing personal information contained in DMV records. Therefore, completed driving records may only be available to the individuals named on the records and some agencies under limited conditions.

How To Look Up Traffic Tickets in Wyoming?

Wyoming partners with CitePayUSA to make citation payments available online. While this platform is primarily for making payments, it also allows users to perform a lookup for ticket information. Note that the citation number or case number and the driver's date of birth are required to perform a lookup. You may also use a reputable third-party website, such as PublicRecords.us, to access Wyoming traffic ticket information. Since traffic records are generally public, these websites collect and organize the data for easy searching through their databases.

Where Do I Pay Traffic Violations?

You may pay traffic fines in Wyoming by visiting the court handling the ticket in person or by mail. However, it is recommended that you contact the court to verify their acceptable payment options and the payment process before proceeding. In addition, Wyoming uses the CitePayUSA portal to provide online citation payments to the public. You will need the citation number or case number and the date of birth of the driver to make a payment.

How Much Does It Cost To Request Your Driving Records Online?

The Wyoming Department of Transportation does not issue driving records online. To obtain a driving record from the WYDOT, you must submit a completed Release of Driving Record and Personal Information form to the address listed on the form. You may request a 3- and 5-year record (issued as one) or a 10-year record (recommended for Commercial Driver License holders). The 3-year record contains details such as license status, moving violations, uninsured accidents, and compulsory insurance violations. The 5-year record contains the same information as the 3-year record but includes additional details such as conviction records for DUI, reckless driving, and vehicular homicide information over the five-year period.

Regardless of the type of driving record requested, the WYDOT charges $10 per record. Note that if you would like to pay by credit card, there is an additional fee of $2.50.

What Are Moving and Non-Moving Violations in Wyoming?

Moving violations occur in Wyoming when a state traffic law is broken while the vehicle is in motion. Moving violations in Wyoming include:

• Speeding
• Driving Under the Influence
• Improper lane changes
• Following too closely
• Running a red light or stop sign
• Reckless or aggressive driving

The penalties for these violations include fines, license suspension or revocation (if convicted of four moving violations within 12 months, their license may be suspended for 90 days), increases in car insurance premiums, and possible jail time for serious offenses such as DUI or reckless driving

Non-moving violations involve traffic offenses committed when the vehicle is stationary or unrelated to the movement of the vehicle. These include

• Parking violations
• Driving without proof of insurance
• Vehicle equipment violations
• Expired license plates or vehicle registration
• Obstructing traffic or illegal vehicle modifications

The penalties for non-moving violations in Wyoming typically involve fines. These offenses do not result in points on the driving record. However, in some cases, such as repeated parking violations or lack of insurance, penalties may escalate to vehicle towing or impoundment, court appearances, and additional administrative fees.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Wyoming?

A DUI conviction remains on your Wyoming driving record for 10 years from the date of the offense. Wyoming ranks fourth in the worst states for drunk driving ranking in the United States. The state has a 96.82 out of 100 for drunk driving score. About 629 DUI arrests and 8.22 drunk drivers are involved in fatal crashes per 100,000 drivers. Also, about 34% of traffic deaths in the state are caused by drunk drivers.

The following penalties apply for DUI convictions in Wyoming:

• First Offense
• Jail Time: Up to 6 months
• Fine: Up to $750
• License Suspension: 90 days
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Required for 6 months if Blood Alcohol Content ≥ 0.15%
• Additional Requirements: Substance abuse assessment and completion of a DUI education program
• Second Offense (Misdemeanor)
• Jail Time: 7 days to 6 months
• Fine: $200 to $750
• License Suspension: 1 year
• IID: Required for 1 year
• Additional Requirements: Substance abuse assessment and completion of a state-approved treatment program
• Third Offense (Misdemeanor)
• Jail Time: 30 days to 6 months
• Fine: $750 to $3,000
• License Suspension: 3 years
• IID: Required for 2 years
• Additional Requirements: Substance abuse assessment and completion of a state-approved treatment program
• Fourth or Subsequent Offense (Felony)
• Prison Time: Up to 7 years
• Fine: Up to $10,000
• License Revocation: Duration determined by the court
• IID: Required indefinitely
• Additional Requirements: Substance abuse assessment and completion of a state-approved treatment program

Note that these penalties may be enhanced in specific circumstances, such as when the DUI involves BAC levels exceeding 0.15%, a passenger under 16 years old, and injury or death. Also, additional consequences of DUI convictions include a significant increase in auto insurance premiums, potential limitations in employment and professional license opportunities, and travel restrictions.

What Are the Penalties for Breaking the Speed Limit in Wyoming?

If a driver exceeds posted or absolute speed limits in Wyoming, they may be cited if it is determined that their speed was unsafe for the prevailing conditions. Under the state speed laws outlined under Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 31-5-301, the following are the absolute speed limits in the state:

• 80 mph on interstate highways
• 70 mph on paved roads
• 55 mph on unpaved roads
• 30 mph in urban districts such as business and residential areas
• 20 mph in school zones during designated hours

In Wyoming, speeding fines depend on how far over the speed limit the driver travels. Per the Wyoming basic speed law, the fine is $250. Other fines include the following:

• 1-5 mph: $65 plus $2 for each mph over the limit
• 6-10 mph: $125 plus $7 for each mph above 5 mph over the limit
• 11-20 mph over the limit: $170 plus $7 for each mph over 10 mph over the limit
• 21+ mph over the limit: $270 plus $7 for each mph above 20 mph over the limit

How Long Does a Speeding Ticket Stay on Your Record in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, a speeding ticket generally remains on your driving record for three years.

How To Appeal A Traffic Ticket?

You may defend yourself in court against a Wyoming traffic citation using the following strategies:

• Faulty or Inaccurate Equipment: You may argue that the radar gun or red-light camera used to issue the citation was malfunctioning or improperly calibrated. A speeding ticket issued based on radar may be challenged if the radar gun was not tested or certified recently.
• Mistaken Identity or Incorrect Vehicle: This defense applies if you were wrongly identified or your vehicle was confused with another. For instance, if your car matches the description of the violator but was not at the scene.
• Lack of Clear or Visible Signage: You may argue that traffic signs or signals were missing, obscured, or confusing, making it unreasonable to expect compliance.
• Legally Justified Action: Here, you admit to the action but argue it was necessary for safety reasons. For example, crossing a double yellow line to avoid an accident or obstacle may be legally justified.
• Officer's Observation Was Subjective or Disputable: If the citation is based on the officer's personal judgment, such as for reckless driving or an unsafe lane change, you may argue that the officer misinterpreted the situation. Supporting evidence like dashcam footage or witness testimony may strengthen this defense.

You should consider hiring an attorney to represent you in court if the following applies in your case:

• Serious Charges Involving DUI or Reckless Driving: These carry criminal penalties, possible jail time, and long-term consequences on your record.
• Risk of License Suspension: If your driving history includes prior violations or you may lose your driving privileges. Therefore, having legal help is important.
• You Drive for a Living (CDL Holders): A conviction may jeopardize your job if you are a commercial driver.
• You Are Unsure About the Legal Process: If you are unfamiliar with Wyoming court procedures, timelines, or how to present evidence.

How To Resolve an Out-of-State Traffic Ticket?

Several states in the United States, including Wyoming, participate in the Driver License Compact (DLC) and the Non-Resident Violator Compact (NVC). These compacts allow states to share information about traffic violations committed by drivers outside their home state and to enforce the associated penalties.

Under the Driver License Compact, if a Wyoming-licensed driver receives a traffic ticket in another member state, that state will report the offense to the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). Wyoming may then treat the out-of-state violation as if it occurred within its borders, potentially suspending the driver's license.

If a driver ignores a citation, for example, by failing to pay a fine or missing a required court appearance, the state where the violation occurred can notify Wyoming. Consequently, the WYDOT may then suspend the driver's license until the ticket is properly addressed under the provisions of the Non-Resident Violator's Compact.

To resolve an out-of-state traffic ticket effectively, follow these steps:

• Review the Ticket Carefully: Check the information on the citation, including deadlines to respond, instructions for paying or contesting the ticket, and any court appearance requirements.
• Check for Online Payment Options: Visit the website of the issuing state's court. Many states allow online payment for minor offenses, which may save you time and avoid additional penalties.
• Decide Whether to Contest the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you may plead not guilty and request a hearing. Supporting evidence such as dashcam footage, photographs, or witness statements may help contest the citation.
• Consider Hiring a Local Attorney: For more serious offenses, such as reckless driving or DUI, consider hiring an attorney licensed in the state where the violation occurred. A local attorney may negotiate on your behalf and may be able to reduce or dismiss the charges.
• Notify WYDOT After Resolution: Once the matter is resolved, contact the DMV in your state to confirm that your driving record has been updated and that no outstanding issues remain.

How Do Wyoming Traffic Laws Differ From Other States?

Traffic laws are common in many states in the United States, as states often share similar frameworks to guide road traffic and safety. However, each state has the authority to adapt and modify these laws to address its specific needs and roadway conditions. Some unique or adapted traffic laws in Wyoming include the following:

• No Helmet Requirement for Adults: Unlike many states, Wyoming does not require motorcycle helmets for riders over 18.
• Passing on the Left: Drivers in Wyoming are allowed to exceed the speed limit by up to 10 mph when passing another vehicle in the left lane.
• No Point System: Wyoming does not use a numerical point system to track driving violations. Instead, repeat offenses, such as four moving violations within 12 months, may result in a 90-day license suspension.
• Wyoming has reduced the fines for drivers caught speeding on highways with an 80-mile-per-hour speed limit. In addition, electric vehicle owners are now required to pay a $50 annual fee, intended to match the fuel taxes paid by drivers of gasoline-powered vehicles.