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How do I fight a speeding ticket in Minnesota?

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

Minnesota stands out for having no formal points system, but the Department of Public Safety still tracks violations and can suspend.

1. Pay vs. Contest

  • Pay: payable offenses by mail or online; non-payable (over 19 mph over, certain school zones) require court appearance.
  • Trial by mail: under Rule 8 of Minn. R. Crim. P. for petty misdemeanors, allowed in some counties via written statement. Limited use.
  • Court trial: bench trial in district court. Jury trial only for misdemeanor or higher charges.

    • 2. Speed Limits & Misdemeanor Threshold

    Minn. Stat. § 169.14 sets posted maximums (70 mph default rural interstate).

  • Over 100 mph: misdemeanor + automatic 6-month license revocation (§ 171.17, subd. 1(a)(8)).
  • 20+ mph over a 55 mph or higher limit OR 10+ over in a 55 mph or lower work zone: misdemeanor.
  • Reckless driving (§ 169.13): misdemeanor (gross misdemeanor with bodily harm).
  • Careless driving: misdemeanor.

    • 3. Points / Record System

    MN has no numeric points but Dept of Public Safety tracks habitual violators. Three speeding convictions within 12 months can trigger a 30-day suspension or driver-improvement requirement. Insurance surcharges last 3 years.

    4. Driver Improvement / Diversion

    Some courts offer diversion (stay of imposition) under Minn. Stat. § 609.135 — completion results in dismissal. Defensive driving courses (NSC, AARP) qualify for insurance discounts but don't auto-dismiss tickets.

    5. Defenses & Discovery

  • Subpoena officer under Minn. R. Crim. P. 22.
  • Request radar/lidar calibration log (typical 30-day cycle).
  • State v. Gerdes governs radar foundation; State v. Aanerud governs lidar.

    • 6. CDL Holders

    49 CFR § 384.226 — no diversion to mask CMV conviction.

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Speed over 100 mph (automatic 6-month revocation) or reckless/careless (misd)
    • CDL holder facing any moving violation
    • License suspension imminent due to multiple convictions
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Minn. Stat. § 169.14
    • Minn. Stat. § 169.13
    • Minn. Stat. § 171.17
    • Minn. Stat. § 609.135
    • Minn. R. Crim. P. 8

    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.