What a driving record check shows you
A driving record check pulls your official history from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency). It shows traffic violations you've received, accidents you've reported, license suspensions or revocations, points on your license, and sometimes parking violations. The record is maintained by the state where you hold your license, not by a national database—so if you've lived in multiple states, each one keeps its own record of your driving there.
You can see your own record by requesting it directly from your state's DMV. Many states now let you check it online through their DMV website; others require you to visit in person or request it by mail. Some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15), while others provide it free. The record you receive is the same one that insurers, employers, and courts can see when they request it with your permission.
Key Takeaways
- Your driving record is kept by the state where you hold your license and includes violations, accidents, points, and suspensions.
- You can request your own record online, by mail, or in person at your state's DMV, and the process usually takes a few days to a few weeks depending on the method.
- Traffic violations stay on your record for three to seven years depending on the state and the type of violation, though serious offenses like DUI may remain longer.
- Employers, insurance companies, and courts can request your record with your permission, so checking it yourself first lets you know what they will see.
- If your record contains errors—a violation you didn't receive or an accident you weren't in—you can dispute it with your state's DMV.
How to request your record online
Most states offer online driving record requests through their DMV website. Go to your state's DMV homepage, look for a link labeled "Check Driving Record," "View My Record," or "Order Driving History," and follow the prompts. You'll typically need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Payment is usually by credit or debit card if there's a fee.
The online record arrives as a PDF or printable document, sometimes when ready and sometimes within a few business days. This is the fastest method in most states. If your state doesn't offer online ordering, you can request the record by mail (send a form and payment to your state DMV) or visit a DMV office in person with your ID and payment.
What violations and incidents stay on your record
Traffic violations—speeding, running a red light, reckless driving, and similar infractions—typically remain on your record for three to five years in most states. More serious violations like driving under the influence (DUI), driving with a suspended license, or hit-and-run offenses often stay for seven to ten years or longer. Some states keep DUI convictions permanently on your record, though they may stop affecting your insurance rates after a certain period.
Accidents you report to police or your insurance company also appear on your record, even if you weren't at fault. At-fault accidents usually stay for three to seven years. Points assigned for violations vary by state—some states use a point system where violations add points to your license, and accumulating too many points triggers a suspension. Other states don't use points but track violations directly.
How long violations stay on your record
The length of time a violation remains visible depends on your state and the type of offense. Most states follow these general timelines: minor infractions like speeding or improper lane change stay for three to five years; more serious violations like reckless driving or driving with a suspended license stay for five to seven years; DUI or felony traffic offenses may stay for seven to ten years or permanently.
However, "staying on your record" doesn't always mean it affects your insurance or employment. Many violations stop affecting your insurance rates after three to five years even if they remain in the DMV record. When a violation "falls off" your record, it means the state stops displaying it on official documents you request, though some background check companies may retain historical data. Check your state's DMV website for the specific retention periods that explore to your violations.
Why employers and insurers request your record
Employers in certain fields—commercial driving, delivery, rideshare, or any job involving company vehicles—often request your driving record as part of the hiring process. They want to assess whether you're a safe driver and whether your license is valid and unrestricted. Insurance companies request your record to calculate your premium; violations and accidents increase your rates because they indicate higher risk.
Courts may also request your record when you're cited for a violation, to see your history and determine penalties. If you're explore for a commercial driver's license (CDL), the state will examine your entire record. In all these cases, the person or organization requesting your record needs your written permission, though you often give that permission by signing an process or consent form.
Disputing errors on your driving record
If your record contains a violation you didn't receive, an accident you weren't involved in, or any other error, you can dispute it with your state's DMV. Start by getting a copy of your record so you have the exact details of what's listed. Then contact your state's DMV—most have a dispute or correction process outlined on their website or available by phone.
You'll typically need to provide documentation supporting your claim: a copy of the ticket showing it was dismissed, a police report showing you weren't at fault in an accident, or proof that the violation was issued to someone else. The DMV will investigate and correct the record if your claim is valid. This process can take several weeks, so start it as soon as you notice an error, especially if the error might affect a job process or insurance quote.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
If your record shows a suspension or revocation, your license is not valid for driving. A suspension is temporary—you can regain your license after meeting certain conditions, such as paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a set period. A revocation is more serious and usually requires you to reapply for a license, sometimes after a waiting period and often with additional requirements like an exam or proof of insurance.
Your state's DMV website will explain the specific conditions for lifting a suspension or reapplying after a revocation. If you're unsure of your status, call your state's DMV directly or visit an office in person. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in most states and can result in arrest, fines, and additional license penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my driving record?
Online requests usually arrive within a few minutes to a few business days. Mail requests typically take one to two weeks. In-person requests at a DMV office are usually available the same day or within a few hours. The exact timing depends on your state's processing speed and current workload.
Can I see my record if I have a license from a different state?
Yes, but you can only see the record from the state that issued your license. If you've held licenses in multiple states, each state maintains its own separate record of violations that occurred there. You would need to request records from each state individually if you want a complete history.
Will checking my own record affect my insurance or anything else?
No. Checking your own record is a soft inquiry and has no effect on your insurance rates, credit, or anything else. Only when an employer, insurer, or court requests your record with your permission does it potentially affect you.
What if I was found not guilty of a traffic violation—does it still show on my record?
If you were acquitted or the charges were dismissed, the violation should not appear on your official record. However, the arrest or citation may still show in some background checks. If a dismissed violation appears on your DMV record, contact your state's DMV to have it removed, and provide documentation of the dismissal.
How do I know if my record has points on it?
Your driving record will show your current point total if your state uses a point system. Not all states do—some track violations without assigning points. Your state's DMV website explains whether points explore in your state and what your current total is. You can also call your state's DMV to ask.