Where to request your Texas driving record

You can request your Texas driving record from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online through their official website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest — you can order and receive your record within minutes if you pay the fee electronically. Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days after DPS receives your form, and in-person requests at a local DPS office are processed the same day.

The online system is called the DPS Public Records Portal. You'll need your Texas driver's license number, date of birth, and a credit or debit card to pay the fee. If you don't have your license number handy, you can use your Social Security number instead. The portal generates a PDF you can read and print when ready, or you can have it mailed to you.

For mail requests, you'll fill out Form DL-43 (Request for Driving Record) and send it to the DPS Records Bureau with a check or money order. For in-person requests, visit any DPS office with your driver's license and request the record at the counter. Some offices have kiosks where you can order it yourself.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas DPS Public Records Portal online system delivers your record in minutes and is the fastest option for most people.
  • You'll need your driver's license number or Social Security number, date of birth, and a payment method to order online.
  • Mail requests require Form DL-43 and take 5 to 10 business days after DPS receives your form.
  • In-person requests at a DPS office are processed the same day you visit, but you must bring your driver's license.
  • The fee varies depending on the type of record you request — a standard record costs less than a certified copy.

Types of driving records and what each shows

Texas offers two main types of driving records: a standard record and a certified copy. A standard record shows your driving history, violations, accidents, and license status. A certified copy is the same information but comes with an official seal and signature, which some employers, insurance companies, or courts require. The certified version costs more and takes slightly longer to process.

You can also request a record that shows only certain violations or a specific time period. For example, you might request only the last three years of your record if you're explore for a job that only cares about recent history. When you order online or fill out Form DL-43, you'll specify which type you need.

Fees and payment methods

The fee for a standard driving record is lower than for a certified copy, but the exact amount changes periodically. Check the DPS website or call the Records Bureau before you order to confirm the current fee. You can pay online with a credit or debit card, or by mail with a check or money order made payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

If you order online and pay electronically, the fee is charged when ready. If you mail your request, include the payment with Form DL-43. If payment is missing or incorrect, DPS will return your request without processing it, which delays your record by several days.

What information appears on your record

Your Texas driving record includes your name, date of birth, driver's license number, license class, and any restrictions or endorsements. It also lists traffic violations, at-fault accidents, license suspensions or revocations, and the dates these events occurred. The record shows convictions, not arrests — a charge that was dismissed or resulted in acquittal will not appear.

Points assigned to violations appear on your record. Texas uses a points system where certain violations add points to your license. If you accumulate too many points in a set time period, your license can be suspended. Your record will show your current point total and any suspensions tied to points.

How long violations stay on your record

Most traffic violations remain on your Texas driving record for three years from the date of conviction. Some violations, like DWI or reckless driving, stay longer — typically five years or more. License suspensions and revocations stay on your record for the duration of the suspension plus an additional period set by state law.

Accidents appear on your record for three years from the date they occurred, whether or not you were at fault. If you were not at fault, you can request that the accident be removed from your record, but you'll need documentation proving you were not responsible.

Ordering a record for insurance or employment

Insurance companies and employers often request your driving record as part of their underwriting or hiring process. When they order it, they receive the same information you do — your violations, accidents, and license status. Some employers only care about violations within the last three years, while others want your full record. Ask the employer or insurance company what they need before you order, so you can request the right type and time period.

If you're ordering for an employer or insurance company, you may need to sign a release form allowing them to view your record. Some employers use a third-party service to pull your record directly from DPS, so you won't need to order it yourself. Check with your employer or insurance agent about their process.

Correcting errors on your driving record

If your driving record contains an error — a violation you didn't commit, an accident listed twice, or incorrect dates — you can dispute it with the DPS Records Bureau. You'll need to provide documentation proving the error, such as a court document showing a charge was dismissed or a police report showing different details than what appears on your record.

Submit your dispute in writing to the DPS Records Bureau with copies of your supporting documents. DPS will investigate and contact you with the outcome. This process can take several weeks. If DPS agrees the record is wrong, they'll issue a corrected record. If they disagree, you have the right to request a hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my record if I order online?

If you order through the DPS Public Records Portal and pay electronically, you can read your record when ready as a PDF. If you request it be mailed to you, allow 5 to 10 business days for delivery after DPS processes your order.

Can I get someone else's driving record?

No, you can only request your own record. If an employer or insurance company needs your record, they can request it directly from DPS with your written consent, or you can order it and give them a copy.

What if I don't have my driver's license number?

You can use your Social Security number instead when ordering online or on Form DL-43. You'll still need your date of birth to complete the request.

Do I need a certified copy or a standard record?

Most employers and insurance companies accept a standard record. Ask them before you order. Courts and some government agencies may require a certified copy with an official seal.

How do I know if my license is suspended?

Your driving record will show any active suspensions or revocations. You can also check your license status on the DPS website by entering your driver's license number and date of birth.