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How do I fight a speeding ticket in Michigan?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Michigan speeding tickets are civil infractions (most cases) handled by district court.

1. Pay vs. Contest

  • Admit responsibility (pay): civil infraction conviction sent to Secretary of State.
  • Admit with explanation: informal hearing before a magistrate; magistrate can reduce fines/points.
  • Deny responsibility: formal hearing before a judge with the officer required to appear. Court may allow a "no points" plea offer.
  • Trial: civil-infraction trial uses preponderance standard; criminal speeding (reckless) is beyond a reasonable doubt.

    • 2. Speed Limits & Reckless Threshold

    MCL § 257.628 sets posted limits (default 70 mph rural freeway, 75 on designated segments).

  • Reckless driving (MCL § 257.626): 'willful or wanton disregard,' 93-day misdemeanor, 6 points.
  • Careless driving (MCL § 257.626b): civil infraction, 3 points.

    • 3. Points & Insurance

  • 2 points: 1-10 mph over
  • 3 points: 11-15 over
  • 4 points: 16+ over

    • Secretary of State sends warning at 4 points, may require reexamination at 12 points/2 years. Insurance impacts last 3 years under Michigan no-fault.

    4. Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC)

    Under MCL § 257.320d, available once per lifetime if driver has 2 or fewer points pre-ticket and ticket is for 3 points or less. Completion masks the infraction from insurance and prevents points.

    5. Defenses & Discovery

  • Subpoena officer and radar/lidar calibration log via MCR 2.305.
  • Cross-examine on pacing, visual estimate, and traffic.
  • Failure of officer to appear at the formal hearing = dismissal.

    • 6. CDL Holders

    Ineligible for BDIC to mask conviction (49 CFR § 384.226). Two serious violations = 60-day disqualification.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Reckless driving (MCL § 257.626) or 16+ mph over (4 points)
    • CDL holder facing any moving violation
    • License reexamination/suspension imminent at 12 points
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.628
    • Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.626
    • Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.626b
    • Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.320a
    • Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.320d

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.