What a Kansas driving record shows and who can request it
Your Kansas driving record is a document maintained by the Kansas Department of Revenue that lists your driving history in the state. It includes traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions or revocations, points assessed against your license, and any restrictions or endorsements on your license. The record does not include arrests or criminal charges — only incidents tied directly to your driving privileges.
You can request your own record, or an authorized third party can request it on your behalf with your written permission. Insurance companies, employers, courts, and law enforcement can also obtain records through official channels. Kansas distinguishes between a three-year record (showing violations and accidents from the past three years) and a complete record (showing your full driving history in Kansas).
The three-year record is what most employers and insurance companies see when they check your driving history. The complete record is typically used by courts, licensing agencies, and in cases involving serious violations or license suspension hearings.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas driving records show traffic violations, accidents, license actions, and points, but not arrests or criminal charges.
- You can request your own record in person at a Kansas DMV office, by mail, or online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website.
- A three-year record costs less than a complete record and is what employers and insurers typically review.
- Processing times vary: online requests are fastest, mail requests take one to two weeks, and in-person requests are when ready.
- You will need a valid form of identification and may need to provide your driver's license number or Social Security number to verify your identity.
How to request your record online
The Kansas Department of Revenue operates an online portal where you can request your driving record without visiting an office or mailing a form. Go to the Kansas DMV website and look for the "Driver Record Request" or "Abstract Request" section. You will need to provide your Kansas driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.
After you submit the request and pay the fee (which varies depending on whether you want a three-year or complete record), the system will either display your record when ready or email it to you within one business day. This is the fastest method if you need the record quickly. Some records are available for when ready read; others require a short processing period.
Keep in mind that online requests may have limits on how many times you can order in a single day or week. If you need multiple copies, check the website for any restrictions before placing your order.
Requesting your record by mail or in person
If you prefer not to use the online system, you can request your record by mail. read the Abstract Request Form from the Kansas Department of Revenue website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with a check or money order for the appropriate fee to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your identification. Mail requests typically take one to two weeks to process, depending on the volume of requests the department is handling.
For an when ready record, visit a Kansas DMV office in person. Bring a valid form of identification (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and be prepared to pay the fee at the counter. You will receive your record the same day. DMV offices are located in most county seats and some larger cities; you can find the office nearest you on the Kansas Department of Revenue website.
In-person requests are useful if you need the record for a court appearance, job interview, or insurance matter on short notice. However, wait times at DMV offices vary by location and time of day.
Understanding points, violations, and license actions on your record
Kansas uses a point system to track driving violations. Each type of violation carries a specific number of points — for example, speeding typically ranges from three to six points depending on how far over the limit you were, while reckless driving carries eight points. Points accumulate over time, and if you reach a certain threshold, your license may be suspended or revoked.
Your record will also show any accidents you reported to law enforcement or your insurance company. These appear on your record even if you were not at fault, though fault determinations may be noted. Traffic violations that resulted in convictions appear with the conviction date and the fine or penalty imposed.
License actions — suspensions, revocations, or restrictions — are clearly marked on your record along with the reason and the dates the action was in effect. If your license was suspended for unpaid traffic fines, for example, that will show on your record. Reinstatement fees or requirements will also be documented.
What employers and insurers see versus your complete record
Most employers and insurance companies request only the three-year record, which shows violations and accidents from the past three years. This limited view is less expensive and gives them a snapshot of your recent driving behavior without exposing your entire history. Some employers in safety-sensitive positions (commercial driving, school bus operation, or roles requiring a commercial driver's license) may request the complete record instead.
Your complete record includes everything from your entire driving history in Kansas, including old violations, suspensions, and accidents that may no longer affect your current license status. Insurance companies rarely request the complete record unless you are explore for a commercial policy or have had multiple claims or violations.
You have the right to know what record was requested about you. If an employer or insurance company pulls your record, they should disclose that they did so. If you believe information on your record is incorrect, you can dispute it with the Kansas Department of Revenue.
Correcting errors on your Kansas driving record
If you find an error on your record — a violation you did not commit, an accident that was not reported correctly, or a license action that was resolved but still shows as active — you can file a dispute with the Kansas Department of Revenue. Start by gathering documentation that supports your claim: court records showing a case was dismissed, proof of payment for a fine, or correspondence from the department confirming a suspension was lifted.
Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue's Driver's License Bureau by phone or mail with your documentation. Explain which item on your record is incorrect and provide evidence. The department will investigate and correct the record if your claim is valid. This process can take several weeks, so request a corrected record once the dispute is resolved to confirm the change.
If you believe an error has already affected your insurance rates or employment, you may want to notify those parties once the correction is made and provide them with an updated record.
Fees and processing times by request method
| Request Method | Processing Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Online (Kansas DMV website) | when ready to 1 business day | Quick orders, no office visit needed |
| In person at DMV office | Same day | Urgent need, when ready proof |
| Mail with form and check | 1 to 2 weeks | Preference for paper copy, bulk orders |
Fees vary based on record type. A three-year record costs less than a complete record. The Kansas Department of Revenue website lists current fees, which may change. Some requests may include a certified copy fee if you need an official document for court or legal purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do violations stay on my Kansas driving record?
Traffic violations remain on your three-year record for three years from the conviction date. They may remain on your complete record longer, but the three-year record is what most employers and insurers see. Serious violations like DUI or reckless driving may have longer reporting periods or may appear on background checks even after they drop off your driving record.
Can I request someone else's driving record?
You can request another person's record only if you have their written permission and a valid reason recognized by Kansas law (such as being their employer or insurance company). The person must sign a consent form authorizing the release. Requesting someone's record without permission is not permitted.
What if my license was suspended — will that show on my record?
Yes. Any suspension, revocation, or restriction on your license will appear on your record along with the reason and dates. If the suspension has been lifted and your license is now valid, that will also be noted. This information is important for employers and insurers to see.
Do accidents appear on my driving record even if I was not at fault?
Accidents you reported to law enforcement or your insurance company appear on your record regardless of fault. However, the record may include fault information if one was made by police or insurance. Some insurers focus on the fault information rather than the accident itself when reviewing your history.
How do I know if my record has been requested by an employer or insurance company?
Employers and insurance companies are required to disclose when they pull your driving record. They should tell you during the hiring or process process. If you suspect your record was pulled without your knowledge, contact the Kansas Department of Revenue to ask about recent requests on your account.