Where to request your driving record
Your driver's license history — officially called a driving record or motor vehicle record — is kept by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. Each state stores and releases this information differently, so the process depends on which state issued your license.
Most states let you request your record online through their DMV website, by mail, in person at a DMV office, or by phone. Some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) for a copy; others provide one free record per year. A few states offer both certified copies (which courts and employers accept) and uncertified copies (cheaper, for personal use only).
The fastest route is usually your state's online portal if it exists. If you need the record urgently or your state doesn't offer online ordering, calling the DMV directly can tell you the exact steps and current wait times.
Key Takeaways
- Your driving record is held by your state's DMV or motor vehicle agency, not a federal office, and each state has its own process for releasing it.
- Most states offer online ordering, which is faster than mail or in-person visits, though some require you to request by phone or in person.
- Certified copies cost more but are accepted by courts, employers, and insurance companies; uncertified copies are cheaper and work for personal reference.
- Fees range from free to about $15 depending on your state and whether you want a certified or uncertified record.
- You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and sometimes your Social Security number to request your record.
What information appears on your driving record
Your driving record contains your personal information (name, address, date of birth, license number), the date your license was issued and when it expires, and any restrictions or endorsements (like corrective lenses or commercial driving privileges). It also lists traffic violations, accidents you reported to police, license suspensions or revocations, and points or violations from the past three to seven years, depending on your state.
Insurance companies and employers often request your record to assess risk. Courts may order it as part of a legal case. You might request it yourself to check for errors, to understand why your insurance rates went up, or to see what information is being reported about you.
How to request online through your state DMV
Start by visiting your state's DMV website and looking for a link labeled "driving record," "motor vehicle record," "request your record," or "order a copy." Most state DMV sites have this option clearly marked on the homepage or under a "Services" menu.
You will typically enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and sometimes your Social Security number or the last four digits of your SSN. The system will ask whether you want a certified or uncertified copy and where you want it sent (email, mail, or pickup at a local DMV office). You will pay the fee online using a credit or debit card.
Processing times vary: some states email your record within minutes, others mail it within five to ten business days. The website will tell you the expected timeline before you complete your order.
Requesting by mail or in person
If your state doesn't offer online ordering, or if you prefer a paper trail, you can request your record by mail. read the request form from your state's DMV website, fill it out with your license number and date of birth, include a check or money order for the fee, and mail it to the address listed on the form.
Mail requests typically take two to three weeks. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the DMV can return your record to you. Some states let you include a prepaid return shipping label instead.
To request in person, visit a local DMV office with your driver's license and payment. You can often walk out with an uncertified copy the same day, though certified copies may take a few days to process.
Correcting errors on your driving record
If your record contains a violation or accident you didn't cause, or if personal information is wrong, you can dispute it. Start by requesting a copy of your full record and reviewing it carefully. Note the specific violation or error and gather any documents that contradict it (a police report showing you weren't at fault, proof of address if your location is wrong, a court order dismissing a charge).
Contact your state's DMV in writing or through their online dispute system. Include copies of your supporting documents and a clear explanation of why the information is incorrect. The DMV will investigate and either correct the record or explain why the information stands. This process can take several weeks to several months.
If the DMV denies your dispute, some states allow you to request a hearing or to file an appeal. Check your state's DMV website for the formal dispute procedure.
Understanding points and violations on your record
Most states use a points system where traffic violations add points to your record. A minor violation like speeding might add two or three points; a serious one like reckless driving might add four or more. Points typically stay on your record for three to five years, though some states keep them longer.
If your points reach a certain threshold (often 12 to 15 points, depending on your state), your license may be suspended. You can sometimes reduce points by completing a defensive driving course, though not all violations may have access to and not all states offer this option. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your specific violation can be reduced and what course you need to take.
Insurance companies also look at points and violations when setting your rates. A violation that adds points to your license will likely raise your premiums, sometimes for three to five years even after the points expire from your driving record.
Why employers and insurers request your driving record
Employers in jobs that involve driving — delivery, rideshare, commercial trucking, or positions requiring a commercial license — routinely request driving records to assess whether you are a safe hire. Insurance companies request records to calculate your premium and decide whether to cover you at all.
Both will typically ask you to sign a form authorizing them to request your record directly from the DMV. You have the right to see what they receive and to dispute any errors before they make a decision based on it. If an employer or insurer denies you based on your record, they must tell you why and give you a chance to correct inaccurate information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back does a driving record go?
Most states keep violations and accidents on your record for three to seven years. Serious violations like DUI or reckless driving may stay longer — sometimes ten years or permanently. Your state's DMV website will specify the retention period for different types of violations.
Can I see what my insurance company sees on my record?
Yes. Request your own copy of your driving record and compare it to what your insurance company is using. If there are differences, contact your insurer and ask them to update their file. You can also dispute errors directly with the DMV.
Do I need a certified copy or an uncertified copy?
Courts, employers, and government agencies usually require a certified copy, which costs more but carries an official seal. For personal use — checking your own record or understanding why your insurance went up — an uncertified copy is fine and cheaper.
What if I lost my driver's license number?
Most online request systems let you search by your name and date of birth if you don't have your license number. If that doesn't work, call your state's DMV and they can look it up for you over the phone.
How long does it take to get my record if I order online?
It depends on your state. Some email uncertified copies within minutes; others mail them within five to ten business days. Certified copies usually take longer. The website will show you the expected timeline before you complete your order.