What a DPS driving record shows and why you might need it
Your state's Department of Public Safety (DPS) keeps a record of your driving history — traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions, and points on your record. This is different from your credit report or criminal record. A DPS driving record is a document that shows only information related to your driving and your vehicle.
You might need this record to show an insurance company, a potential employer, a court, or a rental car company. Some employers in transportation, delivery, or positions requiring a commercial license ask for it. Insurance companies sometimes request it when you explore for a policy or after an accident. You can also request your own record just to see what information DPS has about you.
The exact name of the agency varies by state — it may be called the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Transportation (DOT), or Secretary of State's office. The process and fees also differ by state, so you will need to find your specific state's process.
Key Takeaways
- Your DPS driving record contains traffic violations, accidents, license status, and points — not criminal history or credit information.
- You can request your own record in person, by mail, or online through your state's DPS website, depending on what your state offers.
- Most states charge a small fee (usually $5 to $15) to provide a copy of your driving record.
- Processing time ranges from same-day (if you go in person) to one to two weeks by mail, depending on your state and method.
- You will need your driver's license number, full name, and date of birth to request your record.
How to find your state's DPS website and locate the records request option
Start by searching "[your state] DPS driving record" or "[your state] DMV driving record request." This will take you to your state's official website. Look for a section labeled "Driving Records," "Order Your Record," "Request a Record," or "Public Records."
Once you are on the right page, you should see options for how to request your record — usually in person, by mail, or online. Some states offer all three; others offer only one or two. If you cannot find the records section on the main DPS website, try searching "[your state] Secretary of State driving record" or calling your local DPS office to ask where to request it.
Requesting your record online
Many states now allow you to order your driving record through their website. The process typically involves entering your driver's license number, full name, date of birth, and sometimes your Social Security number. You will usually pay the fee with a credit or debit card at that time.
Online requests are often the fastest option. Some states deliver the record to your email within minutes or hours; others mail it to you within a few business days. Before you start, have your driver's license handy so you can enter the information accurately. Check whether your state's system allows you to read the record when ready or whether it will be mailed to you.
Requesting your record in person at a DPS office
If you go to a local DPS office in person, you can usually get your record the same day. Bring your driver's license or state ID, and be prepared to pay the fee in cash or card. Tell the staff member you want a copy of your driving record.
Wait times at DPS offices vary widely depending on the time of day and how busy the office is. Going early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon often means a shorter wait. Call ahead if you want to ask how busy the office is, or check whether your state's DPS website shows current wait times.
Requesting your record by mail
To request by mail, you will need to fill out a form (usually available on your state's DPS website as a PDF) and mail it to the address listed on that form. Include a check or money order for the fee, your driver's license number, full name, and date of birth. Some states also ask for your Social Security number.
Mail requests typically take one to three weeks, depending on how busy the DPS office is and how far away you live. Keep a copy of what you send in case you need to follow up. If you need the record urgently, mail is the slowest option — online or in-person requests are faster.
What information appears on your driving record
A standard DPS driving record shows your name, date of birth, driver's license number, license status (valid, suspended, revoked, or expired), and the date your license was issued and when it expires. It also lists traffic violations from the past three to seven years (the timeframe varies by state), including speeding tickets, reckless driving, and driving under the influence.
The record may also show accidents you reported to police, points added to your license for violations, and any license suspensions or revocations. It does not include arrests, criminal charges, or information from your credit report. If you see something on your record that you believe is wrong, contact your state's DPS office to dispute it — they can tell you how to file a correction request.
Fees and what to expect
Most states charge between $5 and $15 for a copy of your driving record. Some states offer a certified copy (with an official seal) for a higher fee, usually $10 to $25. A certified copy is sometimes required by courts or employers; a regular copy is usually fine for insurance companies.
Ask when you request your record whether you need a certified or regular copy. If you are unsure, ask the person or organization requesting it. The fee is non-refundable, even if the record shows no violations or accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back does a DPS driving record go?
Most states show violations and accidents from the past three to seven years. Serious violations like DUI may stay on your record longer. Contact your state's DPS office to ask about the specific timeframe for your state.
Can I request someone else's driving record?
Generally, no — you can only request your own record. Employers and insurance companies can request your record with your permission, and courts can order records as part of legal proceedings. Some states allow limited access to records for specific purposes like insurance claims.
What if my record has an error on it?
Contact your state's DPS office and ask how to file a dispute or correction request. You may need to provide documents like a court order showing the violation was dismissed or a police report correcting information. The process varies by state.
Will my record show tickets I paid or violations I completed traffic school for?
Yes, paid tickets and completed traffic school still appear on your record. However, some states allow you to hide certain violations after a set period if you had no other violations during that time. Ask your DPS office whether your state has this option.
How long does it take to get my record if I order it online?
Online records are often available within minutes to a few hours, though some states mail them to you instead. Check your state's website to see whether the record is emailed or mailed, and how long delivery typically takes.