How to Fight a Speeding Ticket in Michigan
If you got a speeding ticket in Michigan, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Speeding is a civil infraction in Michigan under MCL 257.627.
How to fight a speeding ticket in Michigan, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the speeding charge in Michigan and review the evidence against you.
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your speeding citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Speeding is a civil infraction in Michigan under MCL 257.627.
Show up prepared
Speeding is a civil infraction in Michigan under MCL 257.627. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Michigan court date — free
Get a guided prep chat for your exact violation, then a court-ready mock script you can rehearse.
Start my free court prep →Michigan Speeding ticket — frequently asked questions
What are the fines for speeding in Michigan?
Speeding is a civil infraction in Michigan under MCL 257.627. The maximum civil fine is $100 per MCL 257.907, plus court costs up to $100, plus a $40 Justice System Assessment (JSA), for a maximum total of $240. For limited-access freeways with a 55 mph or higher speed limit, MCL 257.629c sets minimum fines: 1–5 mph over = $10; 6–10 mph over = $20; 11–15 mph over = $30; 16–25 mph over = $40; 26+ mph over = $50. These are minimums — courts may set higher amounts up to the $100 civil fine cap. Each district court sets its own schedule; verify your specific court's fine schedule at courts.michigan.gov.
How many points is a speeding ticket in Michigan?
Michigan BMV point values for speeding (MCL 257.320a and MCL 257.629c): 10 mph or less over limit = 2 points; 11–15 mph over = 3 points; 16+ mph over = 4 points. On limited-access freeways with 55 mph+ limits: 1–5 mph over = 0 points; 6–10 mph over = 1 point (with an 'explanation' plea). Points are active for 2 years from the conviction date. The conviction itself stays on your driving record for a minimum of 7 years. Source: MCL 257.320a; MCL 257.629c.
Can I use the BDIC to remove points for a speeding ticket in Michigan?
Traffic civil infractions in Michigan are handled in district courts. You have 14 days from the citation date to respond; a default judgment is entered around day 45. Michigan uses a point system: points are active for 2 years from conviction. An advisory letter is sent at 4 points; a warning letter at 8 points; a mandatory driver reexamination is triggered at 12 points within 2 years. The Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC) is a one-time, lifetime benefit that prevents points and insurance notification for one qualifying civil infraction. Convictions stay on your driving record for a minimum of 7 years. For the most accurate information, refer to the Michigan Compiled Laws at legislature.michigan.gov or the Michigan Secretary of State at michigan.gov/sos.
What are the penalties for speeding in a Michigan school zone?
Speeding fines in Michigan school zones are doubled under MCL 257.627a. The school zone applies during the 30-minute window before and after school hours, within 1,000 feet of school property. Only the civil fine portion doubles (up to $100 maximum fine × 2 = $200 maximum doubled fine); court costs and the $40 JSA do not double. Source: MCL 257.627a.
What are the penalties for speeding in a work zone in Michigan?
Fines for moving violations in Michigan work zones double when workers are present. Only the civil fine portion doubles; court costs and JSA do not. Source: MCL 257.601b.
Will a speeding ticket affect my insurance in Michigan?
A speeding conviction in Michigan is reported to the Secretary of State and will typically cause insurance premium increases. If you complete BDIC, the violation points are not assessed and insurance companies are not notified — this protects your rates. Source: MCL 257.320d; michigan.gov/sos.
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.