What a driver license history report shows and where to request it
A driver license history report is a record of your driving activity maintained by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It includes traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions or revocations, points on your license, and any administrative actions the DMV has taken against your driving privileges. The report does not include your personal information like address or Social Security number — it focuses on your driving record only.
You request this report directly from your state DMV, either online, by mail, or in person at a local office. Some states allow you to view it free through their online portal if you have a login; others charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) whether you request it online or by mail. A few states still require you to visit an office in person to obtain a copy.
You may need this report for insurance purposes, to review for errors before a court appearance, to show an employer, or to understand why your license was suspended. The report you receive is official and can be used as proof of your driving record.
Key Takeaways
- Your state DMV maintains your driving record and is the only source for an official driver license history report.
- Most states let you request the report online, by mail, or in person, and some offer free online access if you create a DMV account.
- The report shows violations, accidents, points, and license actions, but not personal details like your address.
- Processing time ranges from when ready (online) to two weeks (by mail), depending on how you request it.
- Bring or provide your driver license number, full legal name, and date of birth when you request the report.
How to request your report online
Most state DMVs now offer online access to your driving record through their official website. Go to your state's DMV homepage and look for a link labeled "Check Your Driving Record," "View Your Record," "Driver Record Inquiry," or similar. You will need to create a login account or use an existing one, then enter your driver license number, full legal name, and date of birth.
Some states let you view the report when ready on screen and print it yourself at no cost. Others charge a fee (usually $5 to $10) and email the report to you within a few minutes or hours. A few states require you to pay and then pick up the report in person at a DMV office within a set number of days.
If your state's DMV website does not offer online access, or if you cannot create an account, move to the mail or in-person method described below. Do not use third-party websites that claim to retrieve your record — they charge extra fees and straightforward submit a request to the DMV on your behalf.
How to request your report by mail
Contact your state DMV to request a mail-in form, or read the form from the DMV website if it is available. The form typically asks for your full legal name, date of birth, driver license number, current address, and the reason you need the report. Some states ask you to specify whether you want a certified copy (which costs more and takes longer) or a standard copy.
Mail the completed form to the address listed on the DMV website, along with payment if required. Include a check or money order — most DMVs do not accept credit cards by mail. Processing time is usually 7 to 14 days from the date the DMV receives your request, though it can take longer during busy periods.
Keep a copy of what you mail and consider using certified mail with a return receipt so you have proof the DMV received it. If you do not hear back within three weeks, call the DMV to confirm they have your request.
How to request your report in person
Visit a local DMV office during business hours and tell the staff member you want to view or obtain a copy of your driving record. Bring your driver license or state ID card, and be prepared to show a second form of identification if the office requires it. Some offices let you view the record on a computer terminal and print it yourself; others print it for you at the counter.
In-person requests are usually processed while you wait, though you may have to wait in line. Bring cash or a debit card if there is a fee, as not all offices accept checks. If you need a certified copy (required for some legal or insurance purposes), ask the staff member whether that service is available at that location — some offices only issue standard copies.
Understanding what appears on your report
Your driver license history report lists every traffic violation recorded against your license in the past three to five years, depending on your state. This includes speeding, running a red light, reckless driving, and DUI charges. It also shows accidents you reported to the DMV or that were reported by police, along with the date and whether you were found at fault.
The report displays any points added to your license for violations, the total points currently on your record, and the date those points will drop off (usually three to seven years after the violation). It notes any license suspensions, revocations, or restrictions, including the reason and the date the action took effect or was lifted.
The report does not show arrests that did not result in a driving-related conviction, parking tickets, or violations that were dismissed or reduced. It also does not include your personal information, insurance history, or medical records.
How to correct errors on your report
Review your report carefully for mistakes — wrong dates, violations you did not commit, or accidents you were not involved in. If you find an error, contact your state DMV in writing with a detailed explanation of what is wrong and what the correct information should be. Include a copy of your report with the error highlighted.
Provide supporting documents if you have them: a court document showing a violation was dismissed, a police report, or correspondence from the DMV. Mail this to the address listed on the DMV website for record corrections, or ask whether your state allows you to submit corrections online.
The DMV will investigate your claim, which usually takes 30 to 60 days. If they find the error, they will correct it and send you an updated report. If they do not find an error, they will explain why the information on your record is correct. Keep copies of all correspondence in case you need to dispute the record later.
When you might need your driver license history report
Insurance companies often request your driving record when you explore for a new policy or renew an existing one. They use it to assess your risk and set your premium. If you have been denied coverage or quoted a high rate, you can request your own report to see what information the insurer saw.
Employers in certain industries — trucking, taxi services, delivery, or any job involving a company vehicle — may ask you to provide a copy of your driving record as a condition of employment. Some employers run background checks that include your record automatically.
If you are contesting a traffic ticket or facing a license suspension hearing, you may want to review your record beforehand to understand the DMV's documentation and spot any errors. Lawyers sometimes request clients' records to prepare a defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my report?
Online requests are usually when ready or within a few hours. Mail requests take 7 to 14 days from receipt. In-person requests are processed while you wait, though you may wait in line. Call your state DMV if you have not received a mailed report within three weeks.
Can I see someone else's driving record?
No. Only the driver, their lawyer, an insurance company with the driver's permission, or a court with a subpoena can access a driving record. The DMV will not release your record to anyone without your written consent.
How far back does my 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 DMV to learn the specific retention period for your state.
What if I have an out-of-state violation?
Your home state's DMV record shows violations you received in other states if they were reported through the Interstate Compact system. Not all violations are reported this way, so you may need to contact the other state's DMV directly if you want to confirm a specific violation.
Is there a fee to get my report?
Fees vary by state and method. Online access is often free or costs $5 to $10. Mail and in-person requests may cost $5 to $15. Some states offer one free copy per year. Check your state DMV website for current pricing.