What a Utah driving record contains and who can see it
Your Utah driving record is a document maintained by the Utah Driver License Division that shows your driving history in the state. It includes traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions or revocations, points on your license, and any convictions related to motor vehicles. The record covers violations and incidents from the past three to five years, though some serious violations stay longer.
Not everyone can see your record. You can always request your own. Insurance companies, employers, courts, and law enforcement can access it under specific circumstances. Some records are public, meaning anyone can request them; others are restricted. Utah distinguishes between a public driving record (which shows violations and convictions) and a personal driving record (which includes more detail and is what you receive when you request your own).
Key Takeaways
- You can request your own Utah driving record online through the Driver License Division website, by mail, or in person at a Driver License office.
- Public records show traffic violations and convictions but not personal information like your address or Social Security number.
- The cost varies by method: online requests are typically cheaper than mail or in-person requests.
- Processing time ranges from same-day for online requests to 5 to 10 business days for mail requests.
- You can dispute errors on your record by contacting the Driver License Division with documentation of the correction.
How to request your driving record online
The fastest way to get your Utah driving record is through the Driver License Division's online portal. Visit the Utah Department of Public Safety website and look for the Driver License Division section. You will need your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in.
Once you log in, you can view your record when ready and read or print it. Some versions are available for free viewing; others require a small fee if you need an official certified copy. The online system is available 24 hours a day, so you can retrieve your record whenever you need it without waiting for business hours.
Requesting by mail or in person
If you prefer not to use the online system, you can request a copy by mail. Send a written request to the Utah Driver License Division with your name, date of birth, driver license number, and the reason you need the record. Include a check or money order for the fee, which varies depending on whether you need a certified or non-certified copy. Mail requests typically take 5 to 10 business days to process.
You can also visit a Driver License office in person. Bring your driver license or state ID and be prepared to pay the fee at the time of request. Some offices can print your record on the spot; others may need a few days. Call ahead to confirm what your local office can provide and what hours they keep.
Understanding points, violations, and how long they stay on your record
Utah uses a point system to track driving violations. Each type of violation carries a certain number of points. For example, speeding might be 2 to 3 points, while reckless driving could be 4 points. If you accumulate too many points in a set time period, your license can be suspended. Points typically stay on your record for three years from the date of the violation, though serious violations like DUI remain longer.
Traffic violations appear on your record for three to five years depending on the type. Accidents you reported stay on your record for three years. Convictions for serious offenses like DUI, driving with a suspended license, or hit-and-run can remain for longer periods and may affect your insurance rates and employment prospects for years.
Correcting errors on your driving record
If you believe there is an error on your record—such as a violation you did not commit, an accident that was not your fault, or a conviction that was dismissed—you can request a correction. Contact the Driver License Division directly and explain the error. You will need to provide documentation, such as a court order showing a conviction was dismissed, a police report, or other evidence supporting your claim.
The Driver License Division will review your request and the supporting documents. If they determine the error is valid, they will update your record. This process can take several weeks, so keep copies of everything you submit. If your request is denied, you have the right to request a hearing before the Driver License Division.
How your driving record affects insurance and employment
Insurance companies use your driving record to set your rates. Violations, accidents, and especially convictions like DUI will increase your premiums. Some insurers may refuse to cover you if your record shows serious violations. The impact on your rates depends on the type and severity of the violation and how recent it is.
Employers also check driving records, especially for jobs that involve driving or require a commercial driver license. A record with multiple violations or serious convictions can disqualify you from certain positions. Some employers only care about convictions; others look at all violations. Ask potential employers what they check for before you explore.
Requesting someone else's driving record
You cannot request another person's complete driving record without their permission. However, public driving records—which show violations and convictions but not personal details—can be requested by anyone. Insurance companies, employers, and law enforcement can request records as part of their official duties.
If you need someone else's record for a legitimate reason, such as for an insurance claim or legal proceeding, contact the Driver License Division and explain your situation. They will tell you what information is available and what documentation you need to provide. In most cases, you will need written consent from the person whose record you are requesting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my driving record?
Online requests are when ready—you can view and read your record when ready. Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days. In-person requests at a Driver License office may be same-day or take a few days depending on the office and the type of record you need.
Does a dismissed ticket stay on my driving record?
A dismissed ticket should not appear on your record, but errors happen. If you see a dismissed charge listed, contact the Driver License Division with a copy of the court order showing dismissal. They will remove it once they verify the dismissal.
Can I remove violations from my record early?
Violations stay on your record for their full time period—usually three years. You cannot remove them early, but you can request a hearing to dispute the violation if you believe it was issued in error. Some states offer traffic school to reduce points, but Utah's rules vary by violation type.
Will a speeding ticket show up on my record right away?
Not when ready. The violation must be processed and entered into the system, which can take a few weeks. Once it is entered, it will appear on your record. You can check your record online to see when it shows up.
What is the difference between a public and personal driving record?
A public record shows violations and convictions but hides personal information like your address. A personal record is what you get when you request your own record and includes more detail. Public records can be requested by anyone; personal records require you to be the license holder or have written permission.