Driving History and DMV Records

Driving History and DMV Records

Free Driving History

Most states offer free driving records, which requires a trip to your local
State vehicle office to make the request. If a trip to your local DMV is too cumbersome, records can also be obtained online, usually through independent third party companies, but also through certain state DMV’s. Although it is still possible to get free driving records online, most states will charge to look up your driving records via an online service. It is still advisable to take a trip to your local agency in order to obtain your free DMV report, which are available instantly if you urgently need your driving record. Always be wary of websites claiming they will look up your driving records at no charge. The free service is usually only available in person.

How to Lookup Driving History?

Your driving history can be looked up either online or in person. The best place to start is your local DMV, and information is readily available on your state’s local DMV website. Online is the best way to determine if you are eligible for a free driver’s license record, but most times a trip to the office will be required to receive the document. There are many different types of driving records, with the two most common being a certified MVR report and a non-certified MVR record. Certified MVR reports are available for things such as job applications, background checks, and insurance premiums. A non-certified DMV/MVR driving record will display the same information but are usually not valid when it is being requested by a third party (IE: jobs, insurance rates, etc.). There are also other reports available – depending on the state – such as an abstract driving record or online report. Most times, the information contained within each is the same.

What is included on someone’s driving history?

Your MVR report will include your complete driving record, including tickets, accidents, suspensions, drivers license points and more. Typically, you can expect to ascertain the following information with a free DMV record:

– Traffic accidents
– Status of driver’s license
– Moving violations
– DUI public records
– Fines, convictions, and suspensions

It is important to check your free license report periodically for inaccuracies as employers, insurance companies, and banks often monitor this information.

Can I Clear My Driving History?

Although it is not possible to clear your driving history, many items contained within your free report will ‘fall off’ within a specified time frame, usually between 5-7 years. If you have any infractions, violations or points on your license – that can affect your driving privileges – it’s always smart to ensure these marks are falling off within the specified time limits. Most states offer a driving school, which are available for minor traffic tickets and can be completed to avoid having them added to your driving history.

How Does My Driving History Effect My Insurance?

All insurance companies will look at your driving history before they determine if they want to insure you, and if they do, what your premiums and available coverage will be. A large number of insurance companies will refuse coverage if there are unsatisfactory items within your DMV driving report. Multiple violations, DUI’s, unpaid claims or other things that make you a risky driver in the eyes of insurers. Many times, just a few infractions can double or even triple your premiums, which can make driving a very expensive option. It is always a good idea to obtain a free license report at least once per year, as things such as identity theft can harm your record without ever knowing. Treat it like a free credit report and make sure you know what’s on your record and how it can affect your financial situation.

Can I Get Arrested for Driving Violations?

Most driving violations do not carry the risk of arrest. The most typical infractions, such as speeding, failure to yield, driving without registration, failure to obey traffic lights, driving with an invalid license, failure to stop or merge, and seatbelt violations are not arrestable offenses. You will be required to show your license, proof of registration, and a current insurance policy, and will usually be fined or required to attend traffic school. Other, more serious incidences, can get you arrested and fined. Driving intoxicated (DUI or DWI) is the most common driving violation that people get people arrested. More serious matters, such as criminal speeding, vehicular manslaughter, failure to stop for an officer and ‘Hit and Run’ accidents also fall into the category of arrestable violations.

Can I Access Other People’s Driving Record?

Privacy concerns govern the issue of accessing the driving history of another person. There are laws that prevent one from gaining access to this information. In Department of Transportation, WI for example. The Driver’s Privacy Protection Act of 1994 stops people from obtaining the driving records of someone else. Other’s driving history can only be accessed only in the cases where one is the current/potential employers of a person. Typically, the only organizations who can access someone else’s driving record are future or current employers and insurance companies.