What a DMV Driving Record Contains
Your DMV driving record is an official document that lists your driving history as tracked by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. It shows your current license status, any traffic violations you have received, accidents you have reported, license suspensions or revocations, and points or violations that affect your driving privileges. The record does not include your personal information like address or Social Security number — it focuses only on your driving activity.
Every state maintains its own driving records. If you have lived in multiple states, each state has a separate record. Your record is used by insurance companies to set your rates, by employers who hire drivers, by courts in traffic cases, and by you when you need proof of a clean driving history for a job or rental process.
Key Takeaways
- You can request your own driving record directly from your state DMV online, by mail, or in person at a local office.
- Most states charge a small fee — typically $5 to $15 — to issue a copy of your record.
- Online requests are usually the fastest method and often return your record within one business day.
- You will need your driver's license number or full name and date of birth to request your record.
- Some states allow you to view your record when ready online if you create an account with the DMV.
How to Request Your Record Online
Most states now offer online access to driving records through their DMV website. To start, go to your state's DMV website and look for a link labeled "Driving Record," "View My Record," or "Order Driving Record." You will be asked to create an account or log in if you already have one. The account typically requires your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Once you log in, you can usually view your record when ready at no cost. If you need an official printed copy to send to an employer or insurance company, you can order it through the same portal. The state will charge a fee and mail the document to you, or in some cases, email it as a PDF. Processing time varies by state but is usually one to three business days for mailed copies.
Not all states offer full online access. If your state does not have an online portal, you will need to use mail or in-person methods instead. Check your state DMV's website to see what options are available.
Requesting Your Record by Mail
To request your record by mail, visit your state DMV website and read the driving record request form. The form will ask for your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the reason you need the record. Fill it out completely and sign it if required. Include a check or money order for the fee — do not send cash.
Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form, which is usually a central DMV records office. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the DMV can return your record to you. Processing time is typically five to ten business days from the date the DMV receives your request, though it can take longer during busy periods.
Keep a copy of everything you send, including the form and a photo of your check or money order. If your request does not arrive within the stated timeframe, you can contact the DMV to track it.
Getting Your Record in Person
You can walk into any local DMV office and request a copy of your driving record on the spot. Bring your driver's license or state ID and be prepared to pay the fee in cash, check, or card — most offices accept all three. Tell the staff member at the counter that you need a copy of your driving record, and they will print it for you when ready or within a few minutes.
In-person requests are the fastest way to get your record if you need it the same day. However, DMV offices are often busy, so expect to wait. Call ahead or check your local DMV's website to see if you can make an appointment, which can significantly reduce your wait time.
What Information You Will Need
To request your driving record, have one of the following ready: your current driver's license number, or your full legal name and date of birth. Some states also ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number or your state ID number if you do not have a driver's license. If you are requesting someone else's record, you will typically need written permission from that person, though rules vary by state.
If you have changed your name since you got your license, bring documentation of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This helps the DMV locate your record under your previous name.
Understanding Fees and Processing Times
Every state charges a fee to issue an official copy of your driving record. Fees range from $5 to $15 in most states, though some charge more. A few states offer one free copy per year, so check your state's policy before paying. The fee covers the cost of printing and processing your request.
Processing times depend on how you request your record. Online requests that you view when ready cost nothing extra and take seconds. Mailed copies take five to ten business days. In-person requests at a DMV office take minutes to an hour depending on wait times. If you need your record urgently, in-person or online viewing is your best option.
Why You Might Need Your Driving Record
Insurance companies request driving records to set your premium rates. A clean record with no violations or accidents keeps your rates lower. Employers who hire drivers — taxi companies, delivery services, trucking firms, or rideshare platforms — require a copy of your record before hiring. Some landlords also ask for a driving record as part of a background check.
You may also need your record if you are contesting a traffic ticket, explore for a commercial driver's license, or proving your driving history for a court case. If you are moving to another state, you might need a copy of your current state's record to transfer your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a traffic violation stay on my driving record?
Most traffic violations stay on your record for three to five years, though this varies by state and the type of violation. Serious violations like DUI or reckless driving may remain for seven to ten years or longer. Check your state DMV's website for the specific retention period for different violation types.
Can I remove something from my driving record?
You cannot remove accurate information from your record. However, if the record contains an error — a violation you did not receive, an accident you were not in, or a license suspension that was already lifted — you can file a correction request with your state DMV. Bring documentation of the error and submit it to the records department.
What is the difference between a driving record and a driving abstract?
A driving abstract is a shortened version of your full driving record that shows only the most recent violations and your current license status. A full driving record includes your complete history. Most employers and insurance companies ask for an abstract, which is cheaper and faster to obtain than a full record.
Do I need to request a new record every time, or can I use an old copy?
Insurance companies and employers usually want a recent copy — typically dated within the last 30 days. If you requested your record several months ago, you should order a new one. Online viewing lets you check your current record anytime at no cost, so you can verify it has not changed before submitting an old copy.
What if I lost my driver's license number?
You can still request your record using your full legal name and date of birth. If you are requesting online, the DMV portal will ask for this information as an alternative to your license number. If you are requesting by mail or in person, provide your name and date of birth and the DMV staff will locate your record.