Where to request your driving record
Your driving record is held by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the state where you have a license. To get a copy, you contact that state's DMV directly — not a federal agency, and not a third-party service, though third-party services do exist and charge a fee for the lookup.
Every state runs its own DMV system and sets its own fees and processes. Some states call it the DMV; others use names like the Department of Transportation, Secretary of State, or Motor Vehicle Division. The easiest way to find your state's office is to search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] driving record" in a web browser. The official state website will appear first.
You have three main routes: request in person at a local DMV office, request by mail, or request online. Not all states offer all three. Online is fastest where available — usually one to three business days. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person is when ready if you go to an office that day.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV holds your driving record, and you request it from that specific state, not from a national database.
- Most states now offer online requests, which typically return your record within one to three business days for a fee between $5 and $15.
- You will need your driver's license number, full legal name, and date of birth to request your record, and some states require you to verify your identity online.
- A "three-year record" shows violations and accidents from the past three years; a "seven-year record" or "complete record" shows a longer history, and employers often request the longer version.
- If you find errors on your record, you can dispute them with your state DMV, though the process varies by state and takes several weeks.
What information you need to request your record
Before you contact your DMV, gather these details: your full legal name (as it appears on your license), your driver's license number, your date of birth, and your current address. Some states also ask for your Social Security number or the last four digits of it.
If you are requesting someone else's record — for example, a family member or an employee — you will usually need written permission from that person, signed and notarized. Some states allow you to request a record without permission if you have a legal reason (such as a court order or a custody case), but you will need to provide documentation of that reason.
Online requests and how long they take
Most states now offer online requests through their DMV website. You enter your license number and personal details, verify your identity (usually by answering security questions or uploading a photo of your license), and pay the fee by credit or debit card. The record is then emailed to you or made available to read within one to three business days.
Some states deliver the record the same day or next business day if you request it early in the week. Requests made on Friday or over a weekend may take longer. A few states still do not offer online requests and require you to mail in a form or visit an office in person.
The fee for an online request ranges from $5 to $15 depending on the state. Some states charge extra if you want a certified copy (one with an official seal) rather than an uncertified copy. Certified copies are usually needed for court cases, insurance claims, or employment verification.
Requesting by mail or in person
If your state does not offer online requests, or if you prefer not to use the online system, you can request your record by mail. read the form from your state DMV website, fill it out with your name, license number, and date of birth, include a check or money order for the fee, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing time is typically one to two weeks, plus mail delivery time.
For in-person requests, visit a local DMV office with your driver's license and any other ID the office requires. Bring a check, money order, or cash for the fee. You will receive your record on the spot or within a few hours. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead or checking online wait times can help you choose a less crowded time to visit.
Understanding what appears on your record
A driving record typically shows traffic violations (speeding, running a red light, reckless driving), accidents you were involved in, license suspensions or revocations, and points or demerits assigned by your state. It does not show arrests or criminal charges unless they are directly related to driving (such as a DUI).
Most states offer a "three-year record," which shows violations and accidents from the past three years. Some also offer a "seven-year record" or "complete record" showing a longer history. Employers often request the longer version when hiring, especially for jobs that involve driving. Insurance companies typically look at the past three to five years.
The length of time a violation stays on your record varies by state and by the type of violation. Minor speeding tickets may drop off after three to five years; serious violations like DUI can remain for seven to ten years or longer.
Correcting errors on your record
If you find an error on your record — for example, a violation you did not commit, an accident listed twice, or a suspension that was already lifted — you can dispute it with your DMV. The process varies by state, but generally you must submit a written request explaining the error and provide supporting documents (such as a court dismissal, a police report, or proof that you paid a fine).
Send your dispute to the address listed on your state DMV website, or submit it online if your state offers that option. The DMV will investigate and respond within several weeks to several months. If the error is confirmed, the DMV will correct your record and send you an updated copy. If the DMV disagrees with your dispute, you may be able to appeal or request a hearing, though the process and timeline depend on your state.
Why employers and insurers request your record
Employers in jobs that involve driving — delivery, rideshare, commercial trucking, or any role where you drive a company vehicle — routinely request your driving record as part of the hiring process. They use it to assess whether you are a safe driver and to manage their liability insurance.
Insurance companies also review your record when you explore for auto insurance or when your policy renews. Violations and accidents can raise your premiums or, in some cases, lead an insurer to decline coverage. If you have a serious violation like a DUI, some insurers will not cover you at all, and you may need to seek coverage through a high-risk pool.
Courts may also request your record in cases involving traffic disputes, custody decisions, or personal injury claims. If you are contesting a ticket or a violation, your record is part of the evidence the court reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driving record cost?
The fee ranges from $5 to $15 depending on your state and whether you request an uncertified or certified copy. Online requests are usually at the lower end of that range. Certified copies cost more because they include an official seal and are suitable for court or legal proceedings.
Can I get someone else's driving record?
You can request someone else's record only if they give you written, notarized permission. Some states allow requests without permission if you have a legal reason, such as a court order or a custody case, but you must provide documentation of that reason.
How long does a violation stay on my record?
It depends on the state and the type of violation. Minor violations like speeding typically remain for three to five years. Serious violations like DUI, reckless driving, or hit-and-run can stay for seven to ten years or longer. Your state DMV website lists the retention period for each violation type.
What if my state does not have an online option?
You can request your record by mail or in person at a local DMV office. Mail requests take one to two weeks plus delivery time. In-person requests are when ready if you visit an office that day. Check your state DMV website for the mailing address and office locations.
Will my record show arrests or criminal charges?
No, unless they are directly related to driving, such as a DUI or reckless driving charge. Traffic violations appear on your driving record; criminal charges appear on a separate criminal record that you would request from your county court or law enforcement agency.