What a Maryland driving record shows and who can see it
Your Maryland driving record is a document kept by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) that lists your driving history in the state. It includes traffic violations, accidents you reported, license suspensions or revocations, points on your license, and any convictions related to driving. The record covers a rolling period — typically the last three to five years for most violations, though some serious offenses stay longer.
Not everyone can see your full record. The MVA releases different versions depending on who is asking and why. Insurance companies, employers, courts, and law enforcement can request records, but they see only the information relevant to their purpose. You can always request your own complete record, and you are may have access to to see everything the MVA has on file about you.
Your driving record affects your insurance rates, your ability to get hired for jobs that involve driving, and whether you can renew your license. If you notice errors — a violation you did not commit, an accident listed twice, or points that should have been removed — correcting them now prevents problems later.
Key Takeaways
- You can request your own Maryland driving record online through the MVA website, by mail, or in person at an MVA office, and the fastest method is usually online.
- The MVA charges a fee for each record request, and the amount depends on whether you want a certified copy or an uncertified one.
- Points on your license stay on your record for a set time based on the violation type, and you can check how many points you currently have by requesting your record.
- If your record contains an error, you can dispute it by submitting documentation to the MVA, though the process takes several weeks.
- Employers and insurance companies request records through the MVA directly, not through you, so you do not need to provide your record to them yourself.
How to request your record online
The fastest way to get your Maryland driving record is through the MVA website at mva.maryland.gov. Look for the "Order Driving Records" section. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start the request.
The MVA offers two types of records online: an uncertified copy, which is faster and costs less, and a certified copy, which has an official seal and is required for some legal purposes. Choose uncertified unless you know you need the certified version — for example, if a court or attorney asked you to provide it. The uncertified record usually arrives by email within one business day, while certified copies take longer and may be mailed to you.
You will pay the fee online using a credit or debit card. Keep your confirmation number — the MVA will send you a receipt, and you may need it if you have questions about your order.
Requesting your record by mail or in person
If you prefer not to order online, you can request your record by mail. read the form from the MVA website or call the MVA at 410-787-7758 to request one. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the type of record you want. Include a check or money order for the fee, made out to the Maryland MVA.
Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form — it varies by region. The MVA typically processes mail requests within two to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. Include a return address and consider using certified mail so you can confirm the MVA received it.
You can also visit an MVA office in person to request your record. Bring your driver's license and payment. You will receive your record on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office and how busy they are. Find the office nearest you on the MVA website.
Understanding points and how long violations stay on your record
When you receive a traffic violation in Maryland, the MVA assigns points to your license based on the type of violation. Speeding, running a red light, and improper lane changes each carry different point values. The more serious the violation, the more points you receive. Your insurance company uses these points to calculate your rates, and accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension.
Points do not stay on your record forever. Maryland removes points on a schedule: most violations drop off after three years, but more serious offenses like reckless driving or driving under the influence stay for longer. Your driving record will show the date each violation occurred and when it will be removed. If you are close to losing your license due to points, you may be able to take a driver improvement course to reduce them — the MVA website lists approved courses.
Accidents appear on your record separately from violations. At-fault accidents stay for three years; not-at-fault accidents may stay longer or appear differently depending on the circumstances. Suspensions and revocations are also listed with their effective dates and reasons.
Correcting errors on your record
If your record contains information you believe is wrong — a violation you did not receive, an accident listed twice, or points that should have been removed — you can dispute it. Start by gathering documentation: a copy of the ticket or court decision if you have it, proof that you completed a course that should have reduced points, or any other evidence supporting your claim.
Contact the MVA in writing with your name, driver's license number, and a clear description of the error. Explain what is wrong and attach copies of your supporting documents. Mail it to the address on the MVA website or submit it in person at an MVA office. The MVA will investigate, which typically takes four to six weeks. They will contact you with their findings.
If the MVA agrees the record is wrong, they will correct it. If they disagree, you have the right to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. The MVA will explain this process in their response to your dispute.
What different types of records show
The MVA produces several versions of your driving record, and each one shows different information. An uncertified record is a printout of your driving history and is sufficient for most personal reasons — checking your own record, showing it to a potential employer, or understanding your current points. A certified record has an official seal and signature and is required when a court, attorney, or government agency specifically asks for it.
Some employers and insurance companies request what is called a "three-year record" or "five-year record," which shows only violations and suspensions from that time period. The MVA can produce records covering different date ranges. When you order, specify the time period you need if it is different from the default.
Fees and processing times
The MVA charges a fee for each record request. The exact amount varies depending on whether you want an uncertified or certified copy and how you order it. Online orders are typically the least expensive option. Check the MVA website for current fees, as they change periodically.
Processing time depends on how you order. Online requests for uncertified records usually arrive within one business day. Mail requests take two to three weeks. In-person requests at an MVA office are the fastest if you need it when ready, though you may wait in line. Certified copies take longer than uncertified ones because they require additional processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a traffic violation stay on my Maryland driving record?
Most violations stay for three years from the date of the offense. More serious violations like reckless driving, driving under the influence, or hit-and-run stay longer — sometimes up to ten years or more. Your record will show the date each violation will be removed. You can see the exact removal date by requesting your record.
Can I check my driving record for free?
No, the MVA charges a fee for every record request, whether you order online, by mail, or in person. The fee is small but not waived. Some employers and insurance companies may cover the cost if they are the ones requesting it, but personal requests always have a fee.
Will my employer or insurance company see my entire driving record?
No. When an employer or insurance company requests your record, they receive only the information relevant to their purpose. Insurance companies typically see violations and accidents; employers may see suspensions and serious violations. You can always request your own complete record to see everything the MVA has on file.
What should I do if I disagree with a violation on my record?
Gather any documentation you have — a copy of the ticket, court paperwork, or proof you completed a course. Send a written dispute to the MVA with your name, license number, and explanation of the error, along with copies of your supporting documents. The MVA will investigate and contact you with their decision within four to six weeks.
Can I remove points from my license by taking a driving course?
Yes, Maryland allows you to reduce points by completing an approved driver improvement course. The course removes up to three points from your license. You can take the course only once every three years. The MVA website lists approved courses you can take online or in person.