What a Tennessee driving record contains and who can see it
Your Tennessee driving record is a document maintained by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security that lists your traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and conviction history. It does not include your personal information like your address or Social Security number — only your driving history.
Tennessee keeps two versions of your record. The public record shows violations and convictions but omits some details. The complete record, available to you and certain authorized parties like insurers and law enforcement, includes everything on file. Your record stays active as long as you hold a Tennessee license, and violations typically remain visible for three to seven years depending on the offense type.
Insurance companies, employers in certain industries, and law enforcement can request your record. You can request your own record at any time without restriction. Employers outside transportation and security roles generally cannot see your driving record without your written permission.
Key Takeaways
- You can order your Tennessee driving record online through the TDSH website, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services Center for a small fee.
- Your record shows traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and convictions, but not your address or Social Security number.
- Violations typically remain on your record for three to seven years, though serious offenses like DUI may stay longer.
- You can dispute errors on your record by contacting the TDSH with documentation of the correction needed.
- Insurance companies and law enforcement can see your full record; most employers need your permission to view it.
How to order your driving record online
The fastest way to get your Tennessee driving record is through the TDSH online portal. Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and select the option to order your driving record. You will need your Tennessee driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.
The online system offers two delivery options: when ready digital read or mailed copy. The digital version arrives within minutes and costs less than the mailed version. If you need a certified copy for court or insurance purposes, request that option during ordering — it costs more but comes with an official seal and signature. Payment is by credit or debit card only through the online system.
Processing times vary. Digital records are available when ready after payment. Mailed records typically arrive within five to seven business days, though delays can occur during high-volume periods.
Ordering by mail or in person
If you prefer not to order online, you can request your record by mail. read the form from the TDSH website or call their main line to request one be mailed to you. Complete the form with your driver's license number, date of birth, and signature. Include a check or money order for the current fee — do not send cash. Mail the form to the address listed on the TDSH website.
In-person requests are available at any Tennessee Driver Services Center. Bring your driver's license and be prepared to pay the fee in cash, check, or card depending on the location. You will receive your record on the spot or within a few minutes. Driver Services Centers are located in most counties; you can find the nearest one on the TDSH website.
Mail requests take two to three weeks from the time TDSH receives your form. In-person service is when ready, making it the fastest option if you need your record the same day.
Understanding what violations stay on your record
Traffic violations in Tennessee remain on your driving record for different lengths of time based on severity. Minor violations like speeding or failure to yield typically stay for three years. Moving violations that result in points — such as reckless driving or following too closely — remain for five years. Serious offenses like DUI, driving with a suspended license, or hit-and-run stay on your record for seven years or longer.
Accidents appear on your record for three to five years depending on whether they resulted in a citation. An accident where you were cited stays longer than one where no citation was issued. Even if you were not at fault, the accident may still appear on your record as a factual entry.
License suspensions and revocations remain on your record for the duration of the suspension plus an additional period afterward. A suspension for unpaid fines might last six months, but the suspension itself stays on your record for several years after it is lifted.
Correcting errors on your Tennessee driving record
If your driving record contains an error — a violation you did not commit, an accident listed twice, or a conviction that was dismissed — you can request a correction. Contact the TDSH directly with documentation of the error. This might be a court document showing a conviction was dismissed, a letter from law enforcement correcting a citation, or proof that a violation was paid and should be removed.
Send your correction request to the TDSH address listed on their website along with copies of supporting documents. Keep copies for yourself. The TDSH will review your request and either correct the record or send you a letter explaining why the entry cannot be removed. This process typically takes four to six weeks.
If the TDSH denies your correction request, you have the right to request a hearing before the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. This is a formal process, and you may want to consult with an attorney if the error significantly affects your insurance rates or employment.
How your driving record affects insurance and employment
Insurance companies use your Tennessee driving record to set your rates and decide whether to insure you at all. A clean record with no violations or accidents qualifies you for standard rates. Each violation, accident, or suspension increases your premium. A DUI conviction can double or triple your insurance cost and may cause some insurers to drop you entirely.
Employers in transportation, commercial driving, and security can request your driving record as part of a background check. Most other employers cannot see it without your written permission. If you are explore for a job that requires driving — delivery, rideshare, commercial trucking — expect your record to be reviewed. A suspended license or multiple violations may disqualify you.
Some violations also affect your ability to renew your license or may result in suspension. Points accumulate on your record, and reaching a threshold triggers a suspension notice from the TDSH. You can check your current point total on the TDSH website or by calling their office.
Requesting someone else's driving record
You cannot order another person's driving record without their permission, with limited exceptions. Law enforcement, courts, and insurance companies involved in a claim can request records as part of their official duties. Employers can request records only from job candidates who have signed a release form.
If you need someone's record for a legal matter — a civil lawsuit, custody case, or insurance claim — contact your attorney or insurance company. They can request the record through proper legal channels. The TDSH will not release another person's record to you directly without written authorization from that person.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a speeding ticket stay on my Tennessee driving record?
A speeding ticket typically remains on your record for three years from the date of the violation. After three years, it no longer appears on your public record, though the TDSH may retain it in their system. Insurance companies usually only look back three to five years, so the impact on your rates decreases after this period.
Can I see my driving record for free?
No, Tennessee charges a fee to order your driving record, whether online, by mail, or in person. The fee varies depending on whether you want a digital copy, mailed copy, or certified copy. Check the TDSH website for current pricing. You cannot view your record free through any official channel.
Does a dismissed traffic charge show up on my driving record?
A dismissed charge should not appear on your record, but errors happen. If a charge was dismissed in court, request that the TDSH remove it by sending a copy of the court dismissal order. The TDSH will verify the dismissal and correct your record. This process takes several weeks.
How do I check how many points are on my license?
You can check your current point total on the TDSH website by logging in with your driver's license number and date of birth, or by calling the TDSH main office. Points accumulate based on violations and remain on your record for a set period. Reaching 12 points in a 12-month period triggers a suspension notice.
Will my insurance company see a violation I just got?
Your insurance company will see the violation once it appears on your official driving record, which typically happens within two to four weeks after you receive the citation. Some insurers check your record annually; others check it when you renew your policy. Notify your insurer if you expect a violation, as some offer defensive driving discounts that can offset rate increases.