Where to order your driving record

Your driving record is kept by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — the office that issued your driver's license. To get a copy, you contact that agency directly, not a third party. Each state runs its own system, so the process, cost, and turnaround time depend on which state issued your license.

Most states now let you order online through their DMV website, by mail, or in person at a local office. Some states also allow phone orders. The fastest method is usually online, which can produce a record in minutes or within a few business days. Mail orders typically take one to two weeks. In-person orders at an office are when ready but require you to travel there during business hours.

Start by searching "[your state] DMV driving record" or "[your state] motor vehicle record." This will take you to your state's official ordering page. Bookmark it or write down the web address — you may need it again later.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV or motor vehicle agency is the only source for an official driving record; third-party sites cannot provide the real document.
  • Online ordering through your state DMV website is usually fastest, producing a record within minutes to a few business days.
  • You will need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and sometimes your Social Security number to prove your identity.
  • The cost ranges from about $5 to $20 depending on your state and whether you want a certified copy or a standard one.
  • A certified copy (stamped and signed by the DMV) is required for court cases, insurance disputes, and some employment checks; a standard copy works for personal review.

What information you need before ordering

Have your driver's license handy. You will need your license number, full name as it appears on the license, date of birth, and the state that issued it. Most states also ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity. Some states ask for your current address or the address on your license.

If you are ordering a record for someone else — a spouse, adult child, or employee — you typically need their written permission and their driver's license number. Some states allow a parent to order a record for a minor child without permission. Check your state's rules on the DMV website before you try to order.

Certified versus standard copies

A standard driving record is a printout of your traffic history. It shows violations, accidents, suspensions, and points. You can use it to review your own record or to understand what an insurance company or employer might see. A standard copy costs less and arrives faster.

A certified driving record is an official document stamped and signed by the DMV. Courts, insurance companies, and employers often require this version because it proves the record came directly from the state. Certified copies cost more — usually $5 to $10 extra — and may take slightly longer to arrive. If you are unsure which one you need, ask the person or organization requesting it.

Online, mail, and in-person ordering methods

Online ordering is available in all 50 states through the DMV website. You enter your information, pay by credit or debit card, and receive the record by email or mail within days. Some states let you read it when ready as a PDF. This is the fastest and most convenient method for most people.

Mail ordering requires you to print a form from the DMV website, fill it out by hand, include a check or money order, and mail it to the address listed. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want the record mailed back to you. Turnaround is usually one to two weeks, plus mail time. This method works if you do not have a credit card or prefer not to order online.

In-person ordering at a local DMV office is the fastest way to get a record the same day. Bring your driver's license and payment. Some offices have a separate window for records requests. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment — many DMVs now require one.

Phone ordering is available in some states. Call the DMV number listed on your state's website, provide your information, and pay by credit card. The record is mailed to you. This method is slower than online but faster than mail-in.

Cost and processing time by state

Costs vary widely. A standard driving record typically costs $5 to $15. A certified copy adds $5 to $10. Rush processing, where available, costs extra — usually $10 to $25 on top of the record fee. Some states offer it; others do not.

Processing time depends on the method and your state. Online orders in states with modern systems can produce a record in minutes or within one business day. Mail orders take one to three weeks. In-person orders are when ready. If you need the record urgently, call your DMV to ask whether rush processing is available and what it costs.

A few states still require you to order in person or by mail only. If your state's website does not offer online ordering, look for the mailing address and phone number, or visit a local office.

What appears on your driving record

Your record shows traffic violations (speeding, running a red light, reckless driving), at-fault accidents, license suspensions or revocations, DUI or DWI convictions, and points assessed by your state. It does not show parking tickets in most states. The record covers a set period — usually the past three to seven years, depending on your state — though serious violations like DUI may stay longer.

Insurance companies and employers use this record to assess risk. A clean record helps you get better insurance rates and pass background checks. If you see errors — a violation you did not commit, an accident listed twice, or a suspension that was lifted — contact your DMV to dispute it. Bring documentation like court records or proof of payment.

When you need a driving record

You may need a copy for insurance purposes — to show an insurer your actual history or to dispute a rate increase. Employers sometimes request it for jobs involving driving or for positions requiring a background check. Courts may require it in traffic cases or civil disputes. You might also order one to review your own record and check for errors.

If an insurance company or employer asks for your record, ask them whether they need a certified copy or a standard one. If they do not specify, a standard copy is usually sufficient. If they need it certified, they will tell you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a driving record stay on file?

Most violations stay on your record for three to seven years, depending on your state. Serious violations like DUI, reckless driving, or hit-and-run may stay longer — sometimes 10 years or permanently. Your state DMV website lists how long each type of violation is kept. Points typically drop off after a set period if you do not get another violation.

Can I order someone else's driving record?

You can order a record for someone else only with their written permission in most states. Parents can usually order for minor children. Employers can order for employees if the employee consents. Some states have different rules for spouses. Check your state DMV website for the exact requirements and the form you need to submit.

What if my record has an error on it?

Contact your state DMV and explain the error — a violation you did not commit, a duplicate entry, or a suspension that was lifted. Bring documentation like court records, proof of payment, or a letter from the court. The DMV will investigate and correct it if the error is confirmed. This can take several weeks.

Is my driving record the same as my driving history?

Yes, these terms mean the same thing. Your driving record is the official history of violations, accidents, and license actions kept by your state DMV. Insurance companies may use the term "driving history" to refer to the same information, but the official document is called your driving record.

Do I need a certified copy or a standard copy?

Ask whoever is requesting the record. Courts, insurance companies in disputes, and some employers require a certified copy because it is an official state document. For personal review or most routine insurance inquiries, a standard copy is fine and costs less. When in doubt, order a certified copy — it serves all purposes a standard copy does, just at higher cost.