Where to request your Texas driving record

You can request your Texas driving record directly from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Division. The DPS maintains records for every licensed driver in Texas and issues official copies of your driving history, which shows traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and other enforcement actions.

The DPS offers three main ways to request your record: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Each method has different processing times and costs, so your choice depends on how quickly you need the record and whether you prefer to handle it remotely or in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Division is the only official source for your Texas driving record.
  • Online requests through the DPS website are the fastest option and typically process within one business day.
  • Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days and require a completed form, payment, and a copy of your ID.
  • In-person requests at a DPS office are processed when ready, but you must visit during business hours with proper identification.
  • You can request your own record or authorize someone else to request it on your behalf with written permission.

Requesting your record online through the DPS website

The fastest way to get your Texas driving record is through the DPS online portal at dps.texas.gov. Go to the Driver License Division section and select the option to order your driving record. You will need to provide your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.

Online requests cost $3 for a standard record and $5 for a certified copy (which includes an official seal and is required for some legal or employment purposes). You can pay by credit card or debit card. The DPS will email your record to the address on file within one business day, and you can read it when ready once it is ready.

This method works best if you need your record quickly and do not require a physical certified copy mailed to you. If you need a certified copy in your hands, you can request that the DPS mail it to you for an additional fee.

Requesting by mail

To request your driving record by mail, read the form DL-43 (Request for Driving Record) from the DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your driver license number, date of birth, and the reason for your request. You must sign and date the form.

Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for $3 (standard record) or $5 (certified copy) and a copy of your driver license or state ID to the address listed on the form. The DPS processes mail requests in the order received, which typically takes 5 to 10 business days. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the record returned by mail.

Mail requests are slower than online requests but work if you do not have internet access or prefer a paper copy. Keep a copy of your form and payment receipt in case you need to follow up on your request.

Requesting in person at a DPS office

You can walk into any Texas DPS Driver License office and request your driving record on the spot. Bring your driver license or state ID and be prepared to pay $3 for a standard record or $5 for a certified copy in cash or by card. The DPS will print your record and hand it to you when ready.

In-person requests are the fastest option if you need your record the same day. DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DPS website.

This method works best if you live near a DPS office and have time to visit during business hours. If you cannot go yourself, you can authorize someone else to request it on your behalf by providing them with a signed letter giving them permission to do so.

What information appears on your Texas driving record

Your Texas driving record shows your current license status, any traffic violations from the past three to five years (depending on the violation type), at-fault accidents, license suspensions or revocations, and any administrative actions taken by the DPS. Moving violations like speeding or running a red light appear on your record. Non-moving violations like parking tickets do not.

The record also shows points assigned to your license under Texas's point system. Accumulating too many points can result in a license suspension. Insurance companies and employers often request driving records to assess risk, so understanding what appears on yours is important if you are explore for a job or shopping for auto insurance.

You can dispute information on your record if you believe it is incorrect. Contact the DPS directly with documentation supporting your dispute, and they will investigate and correct errors if warranted.

Certified versus standard copies

A standard copy is a printout of your driving record without an official seal. It costs $3 and is suitable for personal review or informal purposes. A certified copy includes the DPS seal and signature, costs $5, and is the official version required by courts, employers, insurance companies, and government agencies.

If you are unsure which type you need, ask the organization requesting the record. Most employers and insurance companies accept standard copies, but courts and government agencies typically require certified copies. You can always request a certified copy if a standard copy is rejected.

Requesting someone else's driving record

You cannot request another person's driving record without their written permission. Texas law protects the privacy of driving records, so the DPS will only release a record to the driver themselves or to someone with documented authorization.

If you need someone else's record (for example, as an employer conducting a background check), that person must sign a form authorizing you to request it. The DPS provides an authorization form on their website. Some employers and insurance companies have their own authorization forms that meet DPS requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a traffic violation stay on my Texas driving record?

Most traffic violations remain on your record for three years from the date of conviction. More serious violations like DWI or reckless driving may stay on your record for five years or longer. Accidents typically appear for three years. The DPS website lists the retention period for specific violation types.

Can I request my driving record if my license is suspended or expired?

Yes. You can request your record even if your license is not currently valid. You will still need to provide your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity, whether you are requesting online, by mail, or in person.

What if I need my record for a court case or legal proceeding?

Request a certified copy, which includes the official DPS seal and is admissible in court. Certified copies cost $5 and can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. If you need the record urgently for a court date, request it in person at a DPS office for when ready delivery.

Can I check my driving record for free?

The DPS does not offer free driving records. Standard copies cost $3 and certified copies cost $5. Some third-party websites claim to offer free records, but they may require you to sign up for paid services or provide personal information for other purposes. The official DPS website is the safest and most direct source.

How do I know if points have been added to my license?

Your driving record shows the points assigned to your license under Texas's point system. You can request your record online, by mail, or in person to see your current point total. If you accumulate 12 or more points within 12 months, the DPS may suspend your license. Requesting your record periodically helps you track your point status.