What's on your Louisiana driving record and how to request it

Your Louisiana driving record is a document kept by the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) that shows your driving history — every traffic violation, accident, license suspension, and conviction tied to your driver's license number. You can request your own record in person, by mail, or online through the OMV website. The record costs money (fees vary), takes a few business days by mail, and arrives as an official document you can use for insurance claims, employment background checks, or your own reference.

The OMV is part of the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections. They maintain the official record and are the only source for a certified copy. If you need the record quickly, the in-person route at an OMV office is fastest — usually same-day or within hours. Online requests through their portal also move faster than mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Louisiana driving record lists traffic violations, accidents, suspensions, and convictions tied to your license number and is maintained by the Office of Motor Vehicles.
  • You can request your record online, by mail, or in person at an OMV office, with online and in-person requests typically faster than mail.
  • The record costs money to obtain, and fees depend on whether you want a certified copy or a standard printout.
  • Points accumulate on your record for traffic violations and can lead to license suspension if you reach a certain threshold within a set time period.
  • You have the right to dispute inaccurate information on your record by contacting the OMV with documentation of the error.

How to request your driving record online or by mail

The fastest non-in-person method is the OMV's online portal. Visit the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections website, navigate to the OMV section, and look for the "Driving Record Request" option. You'll need your driver's license number, date of birth, and a payment method (credit or debit card). The record typically arrives in your email within one to three business days.

If you prefer mail, read the request form from the OMV website or call their main office to have one sent to you. Complete the form with your name, license number, date of birth, and the reason for the request. Include payment (check or money order) and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes five to ten business days from receipt, plus mail time both ways. Keep a copy of your request and payment confirmation for your records.

Getting your record in person at an OMV office

Walk-in service is available at OMV offices across Louisiana. Bring your driver's license or state ID and payment in cash, check, or card (depending on the office). You'll fill out a short form on-site, pay the fee, and receive your record the same day or within a few hours. No appointment is usually needed, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

To find the OMV office nearest you, use the location finder on the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections website. Office hours are typically Monday through Friday during business hours, though some locations may have extended hours. Call ahead if you want to confirm current hours or ask about current wait times.

Understanding points and violations on your record

Louisiana uses a points system for traffic violations. Each violation carries a point value — for example, speeding might be three points, reckless driving six points, and a DUI twelve points. Points stay on your record for a set time (usually three years from the violation date, though serious violations like DUI may stay longer). If you accumulate too many points within a certain period, your license is suspended automatically.

Your record also shows accidents you were involved in, whether you were at fault, and the outcome (settled, pending, dismissed). Insurance companies and employers often review this section. Traffic convictions appear separately from civil infractions, and the distinction matters for background checks and some employment situations.

Points can be reduced or removed in some cases. Louisiana offers a defensive driving course that, upon completion, may reduce points from your record. You must take the course before the points expire, and you can only use this option once every three years. Ask the OMV or your insurance company for approved course providers.

What to do if your record has errors

If you spot an inaccuracy — a violation you didn't commit, a wrong date, a conviction that was dismissed — contact the OMV in writing with documentation. Include your driver's license number, a clear description of the error, and copies of supporting documents (court dismissal papers, proof of payment, accident report, etc.). Mail your dispute to the OMV address listed on their website.

The OMV will investigate and contact you with their findings. If they confirm the error, they'll correct your record at no charge. If they disagree, you have the right to request a hearing before the OMV director. This process takes time — weeks to months — so start early if you need the correction for a specific important date like a job process or insurance renewal.

How insurance companies and employers use your record

Insurance companies pull your driving record when you explore for or renew a policy. They use it to assess risk and set your rates. Violations, accidents, and suspensions all affect your premium. Some insurers offer discounts for a clean record or for completing a defensive driving course. If your rates spike after a violation, shopping around to different insurers may help, since each company weighs violations differently.

Employers in certain fields — commercial driving, delivery, rideshare, or positions requiring a commercial driver's license — routinely request your record as part of background checks. A suspension or serious conviction can disqualify you from these jobs. If you're explore for such a position, know what's on your record before the employer sees it, so you can explain any issues honestly.

License suspension and how to reinstate it

Your license is suspended automatically if you accumulate too many points or if you're convicted of certain offenses (DUI, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license). The OMV will mail you a notice of suspension with the effective date and the reason. You cannot legally drive during a suspension, even with a valid license in your wallet.

To reinstate your license, you must wait out the suspension period (which varies by reason — typically 30 days to one year), then contact the OMV to request reinstatement. You may need to pay a reinstatement fee, provide proof of insurance, or complete a defensive driving course, depending on why you were suspended. Some suspensions require a hearing or a letter from a doctor (for medical suspensions). The OMV will tell you exactly what's required when you call or visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do violations stay on my Louisiana driving record?

Most traffic violations stay on your record for three years from the date of the violation. DUI convictions and some serious offenses may remain longer — up to ten years or more. Points can be reduced through a defensive driving course, but the violation itself remains visible on the record.

Can I see my driving record for free?

No, the OMV charges a fee to provide a copy of your record. The fee depends on the type of record (certified or standard) and the method of request. Some employers or insurance companies may cover the cost if they're requesting it on your behalf, so ask before paying out of pocket.

What's the difference between a certified and standard driving record?

A certified record includes an official seal and signature from the OMV, making it acceptable for legal proceedings, court cases, and some government purposes. A standard record is a printout of your history without the seal and is usually cheaper. For most purposes — insurance, employment, personal reference — a standard record is sufficient.

How do I know if my license is suspended?

The OMV will mail you a notice of suspension, but you can also check your status by calling the OMV directly, visiting an office in person, or checking the online portal if your state offers that service. Never assume your license is valid if you've had recent violations or points — confirm your status before driving.

Can I dispute a traffic violation on my record if I paid the ticket?

Paying a ticket usually means you've accepted the violation, and it will appear on your record. However, if the violation was issued in error or the court later dismissed the case, you can request the OMV correct your record with court documentation. If you believe the ticket was unfair, your option was to contest it in traffic court before paying.