What you can find out by checking your driving license
When you check your driving license, you can see whether it is still valid, what restrictions or endorsements are on it, and whether any points have been added to your record. You can also confirm that the personal information on file — your name, address, and date of birth — matches what you have. In most places, you can do this online through your state or country's motor vehicle department, by phone, or in person at a local office.
Checking your license is useful before a long trip, before renewing it, or if you have received a ticket and want to know whether points were recorded. It takes only a few minutes and costs nothing.
Key Takeaways
- You can check your driving license status online through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website, by calling their phone line, or by visiting an office in person.
- Most online checks require your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or a similar identifier.
- Your driving record shows traffic violations, points, suspensions, and restrictions — information that insurance companies and employers may also see.
- If you find errors on your record, you can request a correction through the same agency that issued your license.
- Checking your record regularly helps you catch problems early and understand what information others may see about you.
How to check your license online
Most states and provinces offer an online portal where you can look up your driving license and record. Go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent — it may be called the Secretary of State, Registry of Motor Vehicles, or Department of Transportation). Look for a link that says "Check Your Driving Record," "View Your License Status," or "Driver License Inquiry."
You will need to enter personal information to verify who you are. This typically includes your driver's license number, date of birth, and either the last four digits of your Social Security number or another identifier like your state ID number. Some states also ask for your full name and address as they appear on your license. Once you enter this information, the system will show you your current license status, any points on your record, and any restrictions or endorsements.
The process usually takes less than five minutes. Your record will show traffic violations from the past three to five years, depending on your state's rules — older violations may not appear online but could still be on your full record.
Checking your record by phone or in person
If you prefer not to use the online system, you can call your state's motor vehicle department directly. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. The staff member will verify your identity and then read your record to you over the phone. This method takes longer than the online option — usually 10 to 20 minutes — but does not require a computer.
You can also visit a local motor vehicle office in person. Bring your driver's license and one additional form of identification. An employee will look up your record and print it for you. This is the slowest option but gives you a paper copy you can keep, which is useful if you need to show your record to an insurance company or employer.
What your driving record includes
Your driving record shows every traffic violation you have received, including speeding tickets, running red lights, and driving without a license. Each violation is listed with the date, location, and fine amount. Most records also show how many points were added for each violation — points are a way of tracking serious or repeated infractions.
Your record also displays any license suspensions or revocations, meaning times when your license was temporarily or permanently taken away. It shows restrictions, such as "corrective lenses required" or "automatic transmission only." It lists endorsements, which are permissions to drive certain types of vehicles, like motorcycles or commercial trucks. Insurance companies and employers often request copies of your driving record to assess risk.
Understanding points on your license
Points are added to your license when you receive certain traffic violations. The number of points depends on the severity of the violation — a minor infraction like an expired registration might be one point, while reckless driving could be four or more. Points accumulate over time, usually staying on your record for three to five years depending on your state.
If you accumulate too many points within a set period — often 12 points in 12 months — your license may be suspended. A suspension means you cannot legally drive for a set time, after which you can request reinstatement. A revocation is more serious and means your license is cancelled; you must reapply and may need to retake the written and driving tests. Points also affect your insurance rates, often causing premiums to increase significantly.
What to do if you find errors on your record
If your record shows a violation you do not believe you received, or if your personal information is wrong, you can request a correction. Contact your state's motor vehicle department and explain the error. You may need to provide documentation, such as a court record showing the ticket was dismissed or a copy of your current address if that information is outdated.
The process for correcting errors varies by state. Some allow you to submit a request online, while others require you to mail in a form or visit an office in person. The department will investigate and update your record if the error is confirmed. This can take several weeks, so it is worth checking your record periodically to catch mistakes early.
Why checking your record matters
Your driving record affects more than just your ability to drive legally. Insurance companies use it to set your rates — violations and points can cause your premiums to rise significantly. Some employers, particularly those hiring for jobs that involve driving, request your record as part of the hiring process. Landlords and lenders may also review it in certain situations.
Checking your record regularly helps you stay aware of what information is being shared about you. It also gives you time to address errors before they affect your insurance rates or a job opportunity. If you have received a ticket and are unsure whether it was recorded, checking your record will tell you whether points were added.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check my driving record?
Once a year is a good practice, especially if you drive regularly or have received a ticket. You can check it more often if you want to monitor a specific violation or if you are explore for a job that requires a clean record.
Will checking my record affect my insurance rates?
No. Checking your own record does not affect your rates. Insurance companies only see your record if you give them permission or if they request it during the rate-setting process.
Can I check someone else's driving record?
Generally, no — driving records are private. You can only view your own record unless you have legal authority, such as being a parent of a minor or having power of attorney. Some states allow employers and insurance companies to request records with the driver's consent.
What if my license is suspended — can I still check my record online?
Yes. A suspension does not prevent you from viewing your record. In fact, checking your record will show you the suspension status and when it ends, which is useful information if you need to know when you can request reinstatement.
How long do violations stay on my driving record?
This varies by state and the type of violation. Most minor violations stay on your record for three to five years, while serious violations like DUI may remain for seven to ten years or longer. Check your state's specific rules for details.