How to Obtain Your Driving Records

A visit to your local Department of Motor Vehicles is one way to obtain your driving record.

Obtaining and knowing what is on your driving record can be beneficial, as your driving record will often affect the amount of money you need to pay for insurance. Also, certain employers require a certified or official copy of your driving record as part of the application process. Occasionally there may be a mistake on your driving record that can have a negative impact on your insurance rates, your ability to get credit or job opportunities, even if those jobs don't directly involve driving. Knowing what's on your driving record is the best way to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Things You'll Need

• Driver's license
• Driver's license number(s) from other state(s) you were licensed in
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Go online to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website. Most states' Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) websites have a navigation device to take you the page outlining the procedure for obtaining your driving record.

2. Fill out any online form to request your driving record. The availability of this online request will vary from state to state. There is almost always a fee involved with obtaining your driving record, and if you order it online, you'll need a credit or debit card.

3. Go online to DMV.org. This website is not affiliated with any government agency, and they do charge a fee for some of their services, but they have centralized information on DMVs from all 50 states and Washington, D.C. This can be especially helpful if you've held a driver's license in multiple states.

4. Go to your local DMV office and request a copy of your driving record. Many states will only issue an official or certified copy of your records to you in person. There will be a fee and forms to fill out. And you'll most likely have to wait in line.

5. Call your automobile insurance agent. The insurance company got a copy of your driving record when they began covering you. They are under no obligation to provide you with a copy, but if you are on good terms with them, they may. Keep in mind that if you need an official or certified copy of your driving record, this method will not suffice.

References

• Insurance Agents; Reviewing Your Personal Driving Record; Meha Ahmad

Resources

• DMV.org