What a California driving record shows and where to request it
Your California driving record is a document kept by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that lists your traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and other driving history. You can request your own record directly from the DMV, and the process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on how you order it.
The DMV offers three ways to get your record: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Online is fastest — you can often view it the same day. By mail takes about 7 to 10 business days. In person at a DMV office is when ready if you go during business hours.
You will need to know your driver's license number or your full name and date of birth. If you are requesting someone else's record, you generally need their written permission, though there are exceptions for insurance companies, employers, and law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- The DMV's online system lets you view your own driving record the same day, and you can print or read it when ready.
- Mail requests take 7 to 10 business days and cost around $5 to $7, depending on whether you want a certified or uncertified copy.
- You can walk into any DMV office with your driver's license and get a copy on the spot during regular business hours.
- Requesting someone else's record requires their written permission unless you are their insurance company, employer, or a government agency.
- Your record shows traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and points, but does not include parking tickets or tickets dismissed in traffic court.
Ordering your record online through the DMV website
The fastest way to get your record is through the California DMV's online system at dmv.ca.gov. Go to the "Driving Records" section and select "Order a Driving Record." You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number, or your full name and date of birth.
Once you log in, you can view your record when ready on screen. You can print it right away or read it as a PDF. If you need an official certified copy, the DMV will mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days. The online view-only version is free, but a certified copy mailed to you costs around $5 to $7.
The online system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is the route most people use because it is the fastest and you do not have to leave home or wait in line.
Requesting by mail or in person at a DMV office
If you prefer to request by mail, read form DL 43 (process for Duplicate or Corrected Driver License or Identification Card) or form INF 1125 (Request for Driving Record) from the DMV website. Fill it out completely, including your driver's license number and current address. Mail it to the DMV address listed on the form along with a check or money order for the fee.
Processing by mail takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the DMV receives your request. Mail can be slow, so consider this option only if you do not need the record urgently or do not have internet access.
To get your record in person, visit any California DMV office during business hours with your valid driver's license or identification card. You will fill out a short form at the counter, pay the fee in cash or card, and receive your record when ready. Most DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. Check the DMV website to find the office nearest you and confirm their hours before you go.
What information appears on your driving record
Your California driving record includes your name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the date your license was issued and expires. It also shows any traffic violations you received, including speeding, running a red light, reckless driving, and driving under the influence. Accidents you were involved in appear on the record, along with any license suspensions or revocations.
The record displays points assigned to violations. In California, a minor violation like speeding typically adds one point, while more serious violations like reckless driving add two points. If you accumulate four points in 12 months, six points in 24 months, or eight points in 36 months, the DMV may suspend your license.
Parking tickets and traffic citations dismissed in court do not appear on your driving record. Only violations you were convicted of or paid for show up. If you have completed traffic school, that may reduce or remove points from your record, depending on when the violation occurred.
Requesting someone else's driving record
You cannot order another person's driving record without their permission, with limited exceptions. If you are an insurance company, employer, or government agency with a legitimate reason, you can request it directly from the DMV. Otherwise, the person whose record you want must provide written permission.
To get permission, ask the person to sign a letter stating that you have their permission to request their record. Include their full name, date of birth, and driver's license number. Mail the signed permission letter along with form INF 1125 to the DMV. Some employers and insurance companies have their own forms for this purpose.
Parents cannot automatically request their adult child's driving record, even if they are paying for the car or insurance. The adult must give permission in writing. Parents of minor drivers may have different rights depending on the situation — contact the DMV directly if you are unsure.
Understanding the cost and processing time
The cost of a California driving record depends on the type of copy you request. A view-only copy through the online system is free. A certified copy mailed to you costs around $5 to $7. Some DMV offices may charge slightly different amounts, so confirm the fee when you order.
Processing time varies by method. Online requests show your record when ready. In-person requests at a DMV office are when ready. Mail requests take 7 to 10 business days from the date the DMV receives your request, not from the date you mail it. If you are mailing your request, add several days for postal delivery on both ends.
If you need your record urgently, the online method is your best option. If you need a certified copy in person, go to a DMV office. Avoid mailing unless you have no other option.
Why you might need your driving record
You may need a copy of your driving record for several reasons. Insurance companies often request it when you explore for a policy or after an accident. Employers, especially those hiring for driving positions, may ask to see your record. If you are buying or selling a vehicle privately, the buyer might want to see your record. Some professional licenses require a clean driving record, and you may need to show it to prove you meet the requirement.
If you are disputing a violation or believe there is an error on your record, you will need a copy to review it. You can then contact the DMV or the court that issued the ticket to correct the error. Keeping a copy of your record on file makes it easier to spot problems early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do violations stay on my California driving record?
Most traffic violations stay on your record for three to seven years from the date of conviction. Serious violations like DUI may stay longer. Points typically fall off after three years if you do not receive any new violations. The DMV website shows the specific timeframe for each type of violation.
Can I remove violations from my driving record?
You cannot remove a violation you were convicted of, but you may be able to reduce its impact. Completing traffic school can remove points from your record if you were not convicted of a serious violation. If you believe the violation was issued in error, you can contest it in traffic court or request a correction from the DMV with supporting documentation.
What is the difference between a certified and uncertified copy?
A certified copy is an official document with the DMV's seal and signature, and it is what most employers and insurance companies require. An uncertified copy is a regular printout and is usually only for your own records. The online view-only version is uncertified, but you can print it and show it to someone informally.
Do I need to go to the DMV in person to get my record?
No. The online system is faster and available anytime. You can also mail a request. Going in person is only necessary if you want an when ready certified copy and cannot wait for mail delivery, or if you do not have internet access.
Will my record show accidents I was not at fault for?
Yes. Your driving record shows all accidents you were involved in, regardless of fault. The record does not indicate who was responsible. If you were not at fault, you can explain that to your insurance company or employer, but the accident itself will appear on your record.