What a driving record shows and where to request it
Your driving record is a document kept by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency) that lists your traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and points assessed against your license. When you request a copy, you receive an official record that employers, insurance companies, courts, or you yourself may need for various reasons.
You can request your driving record directly from your state's DMV — either online, by mail, in person, or by phone, depending on your state. Some states offer when ready online access; others mail the record within one to two weeks. A few states also allow third-party services to retrieve records on your behalf, though this typically costs more than requesting directly.
The cost varies by state, ranging from free to around $15 for a single copy. Many states charge less for an online request than for a mailed copy. Some states offer one free copy per year; others charge every time.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV maintains your driving record and is the official source for copies; you cannot get an official record from any other organization.
- Most states now offer online requests that return your record within minutes or hours, though mail requests take one to two weeks.
- You will need your driver's license number, full name, date of birth, and sometimes your Social Security number to request your record.
- Insurance companies and employers may request your record directly from the DMV with your permission, so you do not always need to order it yourself.
- Your record shows violations, accidents, and license actions, but does not include arrests or criminal charges unless they resulted in a license suspension.
How to request your record online
Most states now offer online access to your driving record through their DMV website. To start, visit your state's DMV homepage and look for a link labeled "driving record," "abstract," "transcript," or "request records." You will enter your driver's license number, full name, date of birth, and sometimes your Social Security number or the last four digits of your SSN.
After you submit the request and pay the fee (if any), you typically receive your record on screen when ready or within a few hours. Some states email the record as a PDF; others let you read it right away. Print or save the PDF when ready — you may not be able to retrieve it again from the website later.
Online requests are the fastest and usually the cheapest option. If your state does not offer online access, you can request by mail or phone instead.
Requesting by mail or in person
If you prefer not to request online, or if your state does not offer that option, you can mail a request form to your state's DMV. The form is usually available on the DMV website as a PDF you can print and fill out by hand, or you can request a form by phone.
On the form, you will provide your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the reason for the request (such as personal use, employment, or insurance). Include a check or money order for the fee, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing time is typically one to two weeks, though some states take longer during busy periods.
You can also visit a DMV office in person to request your record. Bring your driver's license and be prepared to pay the fee. In-person requests are sometimes processed on the spot, though some offices mail the record to you instead.
What information you need to provide
To request your driving record, have the following information ready:
- Your full legal name (as it appears on your license)
- Your date of birth
- Your driver's license number
- Your Social Security number or the last four digits (required by some states)
- The reason for your request (optional on some forms, required on others)
If you are requesting someone else's record, you typically need their written permission and may need to provide proof of a legitimate reason — such as being a parent of a minor driver, a legal guardian, or an employer with a signed authorization form. Rules vary significantly by state; call your DMV to confirm what is needed before you submit.
Understanding what appears on your record
Your driving record includes traffic violations (speeding, running a red light, reckless driving), at-fault accidents, license suspensions or revocations, points assessed against your license, and any restrictions or endorsements on your license. The record shows the date of each violation or accident, the location, and the outcome (such as whether you paid a fine or attended traffic school).
Your record does not include arrests or criminal charges unless they resulted in a license suspension or revocation. It also does not include non-moving violations like parking tickets, unless your state specifically includes them. Insurance companies use your record to set rates; employers may review it for jobs involving driving; and courts may request it in legal cases.
The length of time violations stay on your record varies by state and violation type. Minor violations may drop off after three to five years; serious violations like DUIs may remain for seven to ten years or longer. Check your state's DMV website for specific retention periods.
When you might need your driving record
You may need a copy of your driving record for employment, especially if the job involves driving or requires a background check. Insurance companies sometimes request it directly from the DMV, but you may need to provide a copy yourself if you are switching insurers or disputing a rate increase.
Courts may request your record in traffic cases or civil lawsuits involving a vehicle accident. If you are explore for a commercial driver's license (CDL), you will need to provide your record as part of the process. Some professional licenses or certifications also require a clean driving record, and you may need to submit a copy as proof.
You should also request your record periodically to check for errors — such as violations you did not commit or accidents that were not your fault. If you find an error, contact your state's DMV to file a correction request.
Correcting errors on your driving record
If your driving record contains an error — such as a violation you did not receive, an accident listed incorrectly, or a suspension that was already lifted — you can request a correction from your state's DMV. Start by contacting the DMV office that issued the record and explaining the error in writing. Include a copy of your record with the error highlighted, and provide any supporting documents (such as a court dismissal, proof of payment, or a letter from the court).
The DMV will investigate your claim, which typically takes two to four weeks. If the error is confirmed, the DMV will issue a corrected record. Keep a copy of the corrected record for your files and provide it to anyone who received the incorrect version (such as your insurance company or employer).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my driving record?
Online requests usually return your record within minutes to a few hours. Mail requests take one to two weeks, depending on your state's processing time. In-person requests at a DMV office may be processed when ready or mailed to you later.
Can I get someone else's driving record?
You can request someone else's record only with their written permission and usually only for a legitimate reason, such as being a parent of a minor driver or an employer with a signed authorization. Rules vary by state; contact your DMV to confirm what is required.
How much does a driving record cost?
Cost varies by state, typically ranging from free to around $15 per copy. Online requests are often cheaper than mailed copies. Some states offer one free copy per year; others charge every time you request one.
How long do violations stay on my driving record?
Retention time varies by state and violation type. Minor violations may drop off after three to five years; serious violations like DUIs may remain for seven to ten years or longer. Check your state's DMV website for specific timelines.
What if my record shows an accident that was not my fault?
Your record shows accidents you were involved in, regardless of fault. Insurance companies and employers will see it, but fault is typically determined by the police report or insurance investigation, not by your driving record alone. If you dispute fault, contact your insurance company or the other driver's insurer.