How DMV handles checks returned for insufficient payment

If you wrote a check to the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Registration Fee Trust, and it did not clear your bank, it will be automatically redeposited if it is under $1,000. DMV charges a $20 returned check fee for all returned checks, except for stop payments.

You will receive a letter

If your check is unpaid, you will receive a letter within 30 days from the day you presented the check. If you know you have a retu​rned check and did not receive a letter within 30 days after presenting the check, you may contact the DMV Revenue Accounting office at (608) 266-7587.

You will be notified of a suspension, cancellation or refusal of products

If DMV does not receive payment within three weeks, you will receive a second letter notifying you of a suspension or cancellation of the vehicle or driver license product(s).

• If the check was for a vehicle product, DMV will suspend all vehicle titles and registrations in your name and add a $25 reinstatement fee to the total amount due.
• If the check was for a driver license or identification card, DMV will cancel that product. In addition to the returned check fee, there will be a $60 reinstatement fee for a driver license or a $28 fee for a new identification card.

DMV will not issue any future registration or driver license products to you until full payment for the returned check, returned check fee and any reinstatement fees due are received.

How to pay for a returned check

There are three options available for payment:

1. Use ePay to pay online 
   
2. Mail a money order or cashier's check to the address below. Please allow mailing time for your payment to reach the DMV by the due date.

Division of Motor Vehicles
Revenue Accounting Unit
P.O. Box 7336
Madison, WI 53707-7336

3. Visit any DMV customer service center and pay by cash, money order or cashier's check.

Note: You cannot pay for a returned check at vehicle emissions test stations or other DMV agent providing registration renewal services.​

After payment

• DMV will remove a suspension or cancellation once we receive full payment onli​ne, by mail or in person at a DMV customer service center. 
• ​Check your eligibility and reinstate your driving privilege online
• Check your eligibility for renewing your license plate registration
• Check the status of your driver license

If you have questions about a returned check, contact the DMV Revenue Accounting Unit:
Email: DOT Revenue Accounting Call: (608) 266-7587 (7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Questions? 

Email Wisconsin DMV email service