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Wisconsin Open Container Law (2026)

Restricted: Wisconsin bars both the driver and passengers from possessing alcohol in an open or unsealed container in the passenger area of a vehicle on a highway; a violation is a forfeiture — a civil citation (Wis. Stat. 346.935).

RestrictedVerified May 31, 2026

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Official source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Open Container Law in states bordering Wisconsin

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

IllinoisRestricted
Illinois prohibits any alcohol in the passenger area unless it is in the original sealed container, and the rule applies to the driver and to passengers (625 ILCS 5/11-502).
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: ilga.gov · Full Illinois rule →
IowaRestricted
Iowa prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area, for the driver and for passengers, and any opened container must be kept in the trunk or another area occupants cannot reach (Iowa Code 321.284).
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: legis.iowa.gov · Full Iowa rule →
MichiganRestricted
Michigan prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public highway; they must be kept in the trunk or an area the occupants cannot reach (MCL 257.624a).
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: legislature.mi.gov · Full Michigan rule →
MinnesotaRestricted
Minnesota prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle, which includes an unlocked glove compartment and any area the occupants can reach (Minn. Stat. 169A.35).
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: revisor.mn.gov · Full Minnesota rule →

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