Where to send a Florida driver license record request
Florida driver license records are held by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). You cannot request them from a local DMV office or county clerk — all requests go to the state agency's records bureau in Tallahassee.
The DHSMV processes requests by mail, in person, or through an authorized third party. Mail requests take longer than in-person visits, typically two to four weeks depending on the volume of requests they are processing. If you need the record quickly, visiting a DHSMV office in person is faster, though you will still need to complete a form and pay a fee.
You can also request records through a third-party vendor that the DHSMV has authorized to handle requests on your behalf. These vendors charge a markup above the state fee but may process requests faster. The DHSMV website lists the current authorized vendors.
Key Takeaways
- Florida driver license records are kept by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in Tallahassee, not by local offices.
- You can request your own record by mail, in person at a DHSMV office, or through an authorized third-party vendor.
- The state charges a fee for copies of your driving record, and the amount depends on whether you want a certified or uncertified copy.
- Mail requests typically take two to four weeks; in-person requests are usually completed the same day or within a few days.
- You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, and driver license number to complete a request.
What information is included in a Florida driving record
A Florida driving record contains your personal information (name, date of birth, address), your license number and status, and a history of traffic violations, accidents, and suspensions or revocations. The record shows moving violations like speeding or running a red light, at-fault accidents, and any points assessed against your license.
The record does not include parking tickets, traffic citations that were dismissed, or violations from other states unless Florida has a record of them through interstate reporting systems. Points on your license expire after a certain period — typically three years for most violations — so older infractions may not appear on a current record.
There are two types of records: a certified copy, which bears an official seal and is accepted by courts and government agencies, and an uncertified copy, which is for personal reference. Certified copies cost more and take slightly longer to process.
How to request your record by mail
To request a record by mail, you need to complete Form HSMV 14-010, which is the official request form for Florida driving records. You can read this form from the DHSMV website or request it by phone. Fill in your full name, date of birth, driver license number, and the type of record you want (certified or uncertified).
Include a check or money order for the fee payable to the "Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles." Mail the completed form and payment to the address listed on the form — this is the Records Bureau in Tallahassee. Include a return address so the DHSMV can mail the record back to you.
Keep a copy of your request for your records. The DHSMV does not send a confirmation when they receive your request, so you will not know it arrived unless there is a problem. If you do not receive your record within four weeks, contact the DHSMV to check the status.
Requesting your record in person at a DHSMV office
You can walk into any DHSMV office and request a copy of your driving record on the spot. Bring a valid form of identification and be prepared to pay the fee in cash or by card. You will fill out the same Form HSMV 14-010 at the office, and staff will process it when ready or within a few days depending on how busy the office is.
DHSMV offices are located throughout Florida. You can find the office nearest you on the DHSMV website, which also shows hours of operation. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a trip.
In-person requests are the fastest way to get your record if you need it urgently. Many offices can hand you an uncertified copy the same day. Certified copies may take a few days because they require an official seal and signature.
Using an authorized third-party vendor
The DHSMV has authorized several private vendors to request driving records on behalf of consumers. These vendors charge a fee above what the state charges, but they often process requests faster than the state does by mail. Some vendors offer rush processing for an additional fee.
To use a vendor, you typically visit their website, enter your information, and pay their fee by credit card. The vendor then submits your request to the DHSMV and sends you the record once they receive it from the state. The entire process can take anywhere from one to seven days depending on the vendor and the type of processing you choose.
Authorized vendors are listed on the DHSMV website. Before using a vendor, compare their fees and processing times, since they vary. Some vendors specialize in records for employment screening or insurance purposes, so make sure the vendor you choose can provide the type of record you need.
Fees and what affects the cost
The state fee for a Florida driving record varies based on what you are requesting. An uncertified copy costs less than a certified copy. The exact amount changes periodically, so check the DHSMV website or call their records bureau for the current fee.
If you request your record by mail, you pay only the state fee. If you use an authorized vendor, you pay the state fee plus the vendor's markup, which can range from a few dollars to significantly more depending on the vendor and how fast you want the record processed.
Some employers, insurance companies, or government agencies may request your record on your behalf. In those cases, you typically do not pay the fee directly — the requesting organization pays it. However, you should verify this with the organization before they submit the request.
Why you might need a copy of your driving record
Employers often request driving records for jobs that involve driving or access to company vehicles. Insurance companies may request your record to set your rates or investigate a claim. Courts and law enforcement may request records as part of legal proceedings or traffic enforcement.
You might also request your own record to check for errors, verify that old violations have been removed, or confirm your current license status. If you are explore for a commercial driver license or a hazmat endorsement, you will need to provide a copy of your record as part of the process.
Some professional licenses — such as those for taxi drivers, school bus drivers, or security personnel — require a clean driving record or periodic record checks. If you hold one of these licenses, you may need to request your record regularly to show compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Florida driving record by mail?
Mail requests typically take two to four weeks from the time the DHSMV receives your form and payment. Processing time depends on how many requests the records bureau is handling. If you need the record faster, request it in person at a DHSMV office or use an authorized vendor.
Can I request someone else's driving record?
You can request another person's record only if you have a legitimate legal reason and the proper authorization. Employers and insurance companies can request records with the driver's consent. Law enforcement and courts can request records as part of official proceedings. The DHSMV will not release records to the general public without authorization from the driver.
What if my record contains an error or old violation?
If you find an error on your record, contact the DHSMV records bureau to report it. Provide details about the violation or error and any supporting documents. The DHSMV will investigate and correct the record if the error is confirmed. This process can take several weeks.
Do I need a certified or uncertified copy?
A certified copy is required if you are submitting the record to a court, government agency, or employer who specifically asks for a certified version. An uncertified copy is sufficient for personal reference or when the requesting party does not require official certification. Check with whoever is asking for the record to confirm which type they need.
Can I request my record online directly from the DHSMV?
The DHSMV does not offer online ordering for driving records directly through their website. You must request records by mail, in person, or through an authorized third-party vendor. Some vendors offer online ordering, which then submits your request to the state on your behalf.