What a Texas driving record shows and where to request it
Your Texas driving record is a document maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that lists your driving history for the past three years. It includes traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions or revocations, and any convictions related to driving. The record shows the date of each incident, what happened, and the outcome.
You can request your own driving record online through the DPS website, by mail, in person at a DPS office, or through a third-party vendor. The fastest method is online, which takes a few minutes. Mail requests typically arrive within 5 to 10 business days. In-person requests at a DPS office are processed the same day.
Your record is not automatically sent to you — you have to request it. Insurance companies, employers, courts, and licensing agencies can also request your record with your permission or through legal process, but you won't know they've done so unless you ask for your own copy.
Key Takeaways
- Texas driving records show traffic violations, accidents, license actions, and driving-related convictions from the past three years.
- You can order your record online through the DPS website in minutes, by mail in 5 to 10 days, or in person at a DPS office the same day.
- You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to request your record online.
- A certified copy costs more than an uncertified copy and is required for court proceedings, legal disputes, or official government use.
- Errors on your record can be disputed through the DPS, but the process requires documentation and may take several weeks.
How to order your record online
The Texas DPS website allows you to order an uncertified copy of your driving record without leaving home. Go to the DPS Public Records section, select "Driving Record," and choose whether you want an uncertified or certified copy. Uncertified copies are cheaper and are fine for personal review, insurance quotes, or employment background checks. Certified copies have an official seal and are required for court cases or legal proceedings.
You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Payment is by credit or debit card. The record is typically available for read within a few minutes, though it may take up to one business day. You can print it when ready or save it as a PDF.
If you do not have a Texas driver's license or your license has expired, you can still request your record, but you will need to use a different method — either mail, in person, or a third-party vendor.
Requesting your record by mail or in person
To request by mail, read the DPS form or contact your local DPS office to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the type of copy you want. Include a check or money order for the fee and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days from the date DPS receives it.
For in-person requests, visit any DPS office in Texas. Bring your driver's license or state ID and be prepared to pay the fee in cash, check, or card. You will receive your record the same day. DPS office locations and hours are listed on the DPS website.
Mail requests are slower but useful if you do not have internet access or prefer a paper copy mailed to your home. In-person requests are fastest if you need the record when ready.
What violations and incidents appear on your record
Traffic violations that appear on your Texas record include speeding, running a red light, reckless driving, driving without a valid license, and failure to maintain insurance. At-fault accidents you reported to police or your insurance company will show up. License suspensions, revocations, or restrictions imposed by DPS or a court are listed with the reason and dates.
Driving-related criminal convictions — such as driving under the influence (DUI), driving with a suspended license, or leaving the scene of an accident — appear on your record. Minor violations like parking tickets do not show up on your driving record; they are handled separately by the city or county where the ticket was issued.
Your record covers the past three years for most violations. Some serious incidents, like DUI convictions, may remain visible longer depending on the circumstances and whether you have had other violations since then.
Understanding certified versus uncertified copies
An uncertified copy is a printout of your record without an official seal or signature from DPS. It costs less and is acceptable for personal use, insurance quotes, employment background checks, and loan applications. Most employers and insurance companies accept uncertified copies.
A certified copy has the official DPS seal, signature, and certification statement. It is a legal document and is required for court proceedings, child custody disputes, legal settlements, and some government agency requests. If you are unsure which type you need, ask the person or organization requesting it — they will tell you.
Certified copies cost more than uncertified copies. The exact fee varies, so check the DPS website or call your local DPS office for current pricing.
How to dispute errors on your driving record
If your record contains an error — such as a violation you did not commit, an accident that was not your fault, or a conviction that was dismissed — you can file a dispute with DPS. Start by gathering documentation that proves the error: a court document showing a dismissal, a police report, insurance records, or correspondence from the court.
Contact the DPS Driver License Division by phone or mail and explain the error. Provide your name, driver's license number, and copies of your supporting documents. DPS will review your dispute and contact you with the outcome. This process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.
If DPS denies your dispute, you have the right to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is a formal process and may require legal representation. Contact DPS for information about requesting a hearing.
Why your driving record matters
Insurance companies review your driving record to set your rates. A record with violations or accidents typically results in higher premiums. Some insurers may refuse to cover you if your record includes serious violations like multiple DUIs or reckless driving convictions.
Employers, especially those hiring for positions that involve driving, request driving records as part of background checks. A poor record may disqualify you from jobs that require a clean driving history.
Courts use driving records in traffic cases, license suspension hearings, and civil disputes. If you are contesting a ticket or fighting a license suspension, your record will be part of the evidence reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Texas driving record cost?
Uncertified copies cost less than certified copies. Exact fees vary depending on how you order (online, mail, or in person) and whether you want a certified copy. Check the DPS website or call your local DPS office for current pricing. Online orders are typically the cheapest option.
Can someone else order my driving record?
No, only you can order your own record for personal use. Third parties like employers, insurance companies, or courts can request your record only with your written permission or through legal process. You will not be notified when they do so.
How long does a violation stay on my Texas driving record?
Most violations remain on your record for three years from the date of the violation. Serious convictions like DUI may stay longer. Once violations drop off your record, they no longer appear on future copies, though they may still be visible in court records or insurance history.
What if my license is suspended or revoked?
Suspensions and revocations appear on your driving record. You can still order your record online or through other methods. To reinstate your license, you must contact DPS or the court that issued the suspension to learn what steps are required — this varies depending on the reason for the suspension.
Can I order my record if I have an out-of-state license?
If you previously held a Texas license, you can order your Texas driving record. You will need your former Texas driver's license number or other identifying information. If you have never held a Texas license, you do not have a Texas driving record.