What a Texas driver license record shows and where to request it
Your Texas driver license record is a document that shows your driving history — the violations, accidents, and license suspensions tied to your name and driver license number. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) maintains these records. You can request your own record in person at a DPS office, by mail, or online through the DPS website. The record itself does not include personal information like your address or Social Security number; it focuses on your driving activity.
There are two types of records you might request. A personal record is what you get about yourself and costs around $11. A certified copy costs more (typically $16 to $20) and includes an official seal, which some employers or insurance companies require. Both take time to arrive if you order by mail — usually 5 to 10 business days — but online requests through the DPS portal can be faster.
Key Takeaways
- Your Texas driver license record shows violations, accidents, and suspensions but not your personal address or Social Security number.
- You can request your record online, by mail, or in person at any DPS office, with online being the fastest option.
- A personal record costs around $11 and a certified copy costs $16 to $20, depending on how many pages you need.
- Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days; in-person requests are when ready but require a trip to a DPS office.
- Insurance companies and employers often request certified copies, so confirm which type you need before ordering.
How to request your record online through the DPS website
The fastest way to get your record is through the Texas DPS online portal. Go to the DPS website and look for the "Driver Records" section. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity using this information.
Once you have logged in, you can order either a personal or certified record. The system will show you the cost and ask how you want to receive it — usually by mail or, in some cases, as a digital file. Payment is by credit or debit card. After you submit your order, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this number; you can use it to track your order or contact DPS if there are questions.
Requesting your record by mail or in person
If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a request to the DPS Records Bureau. You will need to fill out a form (available on the DPS website) and include a copy of your driver license or state ID, proof of your Social Security number, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail the packet to the address listed on the form — this is typically a DPS office in Austin.
For an when ready record, visit any DPS driver license office in Texas in person. Bring your driver license or state ID and be ready to pay the fee in cash or card. The staff will print your record on the spot. Wait times vary by location and time of day, so calling ahead or checking online for current wait times can save you a trip.
What information appears on your driving record
Your Texas driver license record lists traffic violations you received while driving in Texas or out of state (if reported to Texas). This includes speeding tickets, running red lights, reckless driving, and DWI charges. The record shows the date of each violation, the location, and the outcome — whether you paid a fine, went to court, or had the charge dismissed.
The record also shows any at-fault accidents reported to DPS, license suspensions or revocations, and points on your license. Texas uses a points system: minor violations add points, and if you accumulate too many in a short time, your license can be suspended. The record will show how many points you currently have and when they expire (most points drop off after three years).
One thing your record does not show is your personal information — no address, phone number, or Social Security number appears on it. Insurance companies and employers see only your driving history, not your identity details.
How long violations and accidents stay on your record
Traffic violations in Texas remain on your driving record for three years from the date of conviction. This means a speeding ticket from January 2022 would drop off in January 2025. However, more serious violations like DWI stay longer — typically five years or more, depending on the offense.
At-fault accidents stay on your record for three years as well. If you were found not at fault, the accident may still appear on your record but will be marked as not at fault, which affects your insurance rate differently than an at-fault accident.
License suspensions and revocations remain on your record for the duration of the suspension plus an additional period after reinstatement. If your license was suspended for 90 days, the suspension itself and the reinstatement appear on your record for longer than three years.
Why you might need your driving record
Insurance companies request your driving record when you explore for a new policy or renew an existing one. They use it to calculate your premium — more violations or accidents mean higher rates. Some insurers request a certified copy; others accept a personal record. When you get a quote, ask which type they need.
Employers in certain fields — commercial driving, rideshare, delivery, or positions requiring a company vehicle — routinely request certified driving records as part of the hiring process. If you are explore for a job that involves driving, assume you will need to provide one.
You might also request your own record to check for errors. If you see a violation you do not recognize or believe was resolved incorrectly, you can contact DPS to dispute it. Having a copy of your record is the first step in that process.
Correcting errors on your Texas driving record
If your record contains an error — a violation that was dismissed but still shows as active, an accident marked as at-fault when it was not, or a violation attributed to you that you did not receive — you can file a dispute with DPS. Start by getting a copy of your record so you have documentation of the error.
Contact the DPS Records Bureau by phone or mail and explain the error. You will likely need to provide supporting documents: a court order showing the violation was dismissed, a police report showing you were not at fault, or other evidence. DPS will investigate and update your record if the error is confirmed. This process can take several weeks.
If the error involves a violation you genuinely did not commit, you may need to provide proof that you were not the driver — for example, a statement that someone else was driving your vehicle. Keep any documentation related to the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Texas driver license record cost?
A personal record costs around $11, and a certified copy costs $16 to $20. Prices may vary slightly depending on the number of pages and whether you order online, by mail, or in person. Check the current fee on the DPS website before ordering.
Can I get someone else's driving record?
No. DPS only releases driving records to the person whose name is on the record, their attorney, or an authorized representative with written permission. Insurance companies and employers can request records directly from DPS if you consent, but you cannot order a record for another person without their permission.
How long does it take to get my record if I order online?
Online orders are typically processed within 1 to 3 business days if you receive the record by mail. Some online orders may be available as a digital read when ready or within a few hours. In-person requests at a DPS office are when ready — you receive the record while you wait.
Will my record show violations from other states?
Yes, if those violations were reported to Texas through the Interstate Compact system. Most states share traffic violation data, so a speeding ticket you received in Oklahoma or California may appear on your Texas record. However, not all states report every violation, so your Texas record may not be complete.
What should I do if my license was suspended and I want to know why?
Your driving record will show the suspension and the reason — usually accumulation of points, a DWI, or failure to pay a fine. If you need more details, contact DPS directly by phone or visit a driver license office. They can tell you what steps you need to take to reinstate your license.