Getting your Texas driving record directly from the state

You can request your Texas driving record from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), which maintains the official record of your license status, violations, accidents, and suspensions. The DPS offers three ways to order: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Online is fastest — you'll receive a digital copy within minutes if you pay the fee. Mail requests take one to two weeks. In-person requests at a DPS office are processed the same day.

You'll need to provide your full name, date of birth, Texas driver's license number (or Social Security number if you don't have your license number), and a valid form of payment. The DPS charges a fee for each record — the amount varies depending on whether you want a certified copy or an uncertified one. Certified copies cost more but are required for court cases, insurance disputes, or employment verification. Uncertified copies are cheaper and work for personal review.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas Department of Public Safety is the only official source for your driving record, and you can order online, by mail, or in person.
  • Online orders through the DPS website deliver results within minutes; mail orders take one to two weeks.
  • Certified copies cost more than uncertified copies but are required for legal, insurance, or employment purposes.
  • You'll need your driver's license number or Social Security number, date of birth, and a payment method to complete your request.
  • Your record shows your license status, traffic violations, accidents, and any suspensions or revocations issued by Texas.

Ordering online through the DPS website

The fastest way to get your record is through the Texas DPS online portal. Go to the DPS website, select the driving record request option, and enter your personal information. You'll be asked whether you want a certified or uncertified copy. Choose certified if you need it for a court case, insurance claim, or employer background check. Choose uncertified if you're reviewing your record for personal reasons or checking for errors.

After you submit your information and pay the fee with a credit or debit card, the DPS will generate your record when ready. You can read and print it right away or have it emailed to you. Keep a copy for your records. If you notice errors on your record — such as violations you didn't commit or accidents that aren't yours — you can file a dispute with the DPS, though this process takes time and requires documentation.

Requesting by mail or in person

If you prefer not to order online, you can mail a request to the DPS with a completed form, a copy of your ID, and a check or money order for the fee. The DPS website has the mailing address and the form you need. Mail requests typically arrive within one to two weeks, depending on processing volume. Include a return address and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

You can also visit a DPS office in person to request your record. Bring your driver's license or ID, and be prepared to pay the fee. Same-day service is available at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment, as some offices operate by appointment only.

What information appears on your Texas driving record

Your Texas driving record shows your current license status (valid, suspended, revoked, or expired), all traffic violations from the past three to five years, at-fault accidents, and any administrative actions taken against your license. It also displays points assigned to your license for violations — Texas uses a point system where certain violations add points, and accumulating too many points can trigger a suspension.

The record does not include arrests, criminal charges, or convictions unless they directly resulted in a license suspension or revocation. It also does not show warnings or citations that were dismissed or reduced. If you're checking your record before a job interview or insurance renewal, you'll see what the employer or insurance company will see when they request your record.

Understanding certified versus uncertified copies

A certified copy is an official document stamped and signed by the Texas DPS, confirming it is a true and accurate record from the state. Courts, insurance companies, and employers often require certified copies because they carry legal weight. A certified copy costs more than an uncertified copy and takes slightly longer to process, though online certified copies are still delivered within minutes.

An uncertified copy is a printout of your record without the official seal or signature. It's useful for your own review, checking for errors, or understanding what violations are on file. Uncertified copies cost less and are fine for personal use, but they won't be accepted in court or by most employers as proof of your driving history. If you're unsure which you need, ask the organization requesting it — they'll tell you whether certified or uncertified is acceptable.

Correcting errors on your driving record

If your record contains a violation, accident, or suspension that you believe is incorrect, you can file a dispute with the Texas DPS. Start by gathering documentation that supports your claim — for example, a court document showing a ticket was dismissed, a police report showing you were not at fault in an accident, or proof that a suspension was lifted. Send your dispute in writing to the DPS with copies of your supporting documents.

The DPS will review your dispute and contact you with the outcome. This process can take several weeks or longer, depending on the complexity of the error and how much documentation you provide. If the DPS agrees the record is wrong, they will issue a corrected record. If you disagree with their decision, you have the right to request a hearing, though this is rare and requires legal representation in most cases.

Using your record for insurance or employment

Insurance companies and employers often request your driving record as part of their underwriting or background check process. Insurance companies use your record to assess risk and set your premium — violations and accidents typically increase your rate. Employers in fields like commercial driving, delivery, or transportation will review your record to determine whether you're safe to hire.

You have the right to know what's on your record before an insurance company or employer sees it. Ordering your own copy before explore for insurance or a job gives you a chance to spot errors and correct them. If your record shows violations or accidents, you can explain them to the insurance company or employer — some companies will work with you if the violations are old or if you can show you've taken a defensive driving course.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my Texas driving record?

Online orders are delivered within minutes. Mail requests take one to two weeks depending on processing volume. In-person requests at a DPS office are processed the same day, though you may wait in line. Call ahead if you're visiting an office to confirm hours and any appointment requirements.

Can I request someone else's driving record?

No. Only the driver or an authorized representative (such as an attorney or insurance adjuster) can request a record. The DPS requires proof of identity and will not release records to third parties without written consent from the driver.

What if my record shows an accident I wasn't at fault for?

Accidents appear on your record regardless of fault. If you believe the accident is incorrectly attributed to you or the details are wrong, file a dispute with the DPS and include a copy of the police report or insurance documentation showing the facts. The DPS will review your evidence and correct the record if warranted.

Do I need a certified copy for a traffic court case?

Yes. Courts require a certified copy of your driving record as official evidence. Order a certified copy from the DPS and bring it with you to court. Some courts will accept a certified copy printed from the online portal; call the court clerk to confirm what format they accept.

How far back does my Texas driving record go?

Traffic violations typically appear for three to five years from the date of the violation. Accidents may appear longer. Suspensions and revocations remain on your record for the duration of the action. Your record will show your complete license history, including any past suspensions or revocations that have been lifted.