How do you get your driving record is a common question. Your driving record, sometimes referred to as an MVR or Motor Vehicle Report, is important. Some jobs require you to maintain a good driving record for employment. Insurance companies use your driving record as a factor to determine your insurance rate. And if your driving record is really bad you could be in jeopardy of having your driver's license revoked. Knowing how to get your driving record will help you keep track of this important information.
3 Places to Get Your Driving Record
- Local DMV
Going directly to the Secretary of State office will get you the most accurate and certified results. The driving record will have everything in your driving history listed for at least the last three years. The Secretary of State's office usually requires a valid driver's license and small fee, roughly around $8 depending on what state you live in.
- Instant Driving Record Online
It is possible to get your driving record online from a third party vendor. The cost is quite a bit steeper and the accuracy might not be as good. The greatest benefit of getting your driving record on line is speed.
- Your Insurance Agent
An easy way to find out what is on your driving record is to ask your insurance agent. Agents have the ability to look up your motor vehicle report and probably be willing to print you a copy. It may not be a certified copy, but it will let you know the basics. Traffic violations, conviction dates, and accidents will all be available to your insurance agent if they have access to your driver's license number. More than likely, you will be able to get a copy of your driving record free from your insurance agent.
It can be difficult to keep track of your driving record over the past three to five years. Getting a copy of your driving record can clarify any of your concerns. You can check your record for accuracy, find out the dates violations were received, and prove your good driving record to potential employers.
Driving Records Include the Dates of the Following:
- Traffic Violations
- Convictions
- Accidents
- Suspensions
- License Expiration
How to Correct a Mistake on Your Driving Record
If you find a mistake on your driving record, it can usually be fixed. Traffic violation errors should be corrected at the Secretary of State. A not at-fault accident listed as an at-fault accident can usually be cleared up at the insurance office with which you were insured at the time of loss. Driving records are typically accurate, but mistakes do happen. If you do find an error on your driving record, you should definitely try to get it corrected as soon as possible.
Driving records contain important personal information which can affect your financial future. Keep a close eye on your driving record, it can mean the difference between high insurance rates and cheap insurance rates. Knowing how many points are on your driving record can help inspire you to drive more cautiously.
