Seat Belt Ticket in Michigan: Record & Insurance Impact

Good news for Michigan drivers: A seat belt violation is a civil infraction, not a criminal offense or moving violation.

What This Means

• No points on your driving record
• No insurance surcharge — insurers cannot raise rates for it
• No license suspension risk from the ticket itself
• Fine only: $65 (including court costs) — same for driver and passengers ≥16

Exceptions & Traps

• Failure to pay/appear: Can trigger license suspension, warrant, collections — that goes on record
• Commercial drivers (CDL): Must report to employer; may affect CSA score
• Child restraint violations: Separate statute, higher fines, possible points if reckless
• Primary enforcement: Police can stop you solely for seat belt (since 2000)

Michigan Law (MCL 257.710e)

Front-seat occupants must wear belts. Rear-seat passengers 16+ — only if belt available. Exemptions: medical (doctor's note), vehicles pre-1965, rural mail carriers, buses.

Bottom line: Pay the $65 promptly. It stays off your abstract. But don't ignore it — administrative consequences will appear.