Texas Driving Records
Everything you need to know about obtaining and understanding your Motor Vehicle Record from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
What Is a Driving Record?
Your Texas driving record—also called a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)—is a detailed history of your driving maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). It's essentially your driving report card, showing everything from your license status to traffic violations and accidents.
Your driving record includes:
- Current driver's license status and information
- Traffic violations and citations
- Accident history
- Points accumulated from infractions
- License suspensions or revocations
- DUI/DWI convictions
Why Your Driving Record Matters
Your driving record affects several important aspects of your life:
Insurance Rates
Insurance companies scrutinize your driving record to assess risk and set your premiums. A clean record keeps rates low, while violations trigger significant increases. Even a single speeding ticket can raise your rates at renewal, and a DWI conviction can spike premiums by 20-50% or more for three to five years.
Employment Opportunities
Employers—especially those hiring for positions requiring driving—check driving records during background screening. A history of violations can disqualify you from jobs that involve operating vehicles or company cars.
Legal Matters
Your driving record plays a critical role in personal injury claims and liability assessments after accidents. A history of reckless driving or violations can undermine your case in court, potentially reducing compensation or increasing your liability.
License Status
Excessive violations (typically more than four in a year) can lead to license suspension, creating a cascade of problems including higher insurance costs and restricted mobility.
Types of Texas Driving Records
Texas offers several types of driving records for different purposes. Understanding which type you need helps ensure you get the right information.
Type 1: Certified Record
The most comprehensive option, showing your complete driving history including violations, accidents, and license status. This is what you need for:
- Court appearances
- Legal proceedings
- Official documentation purposes
Type 2: Uncertified Record
Contains the same information as a certified record but without official certification. Good for:
- Personal review
- Checking your own history
- Informal purposes
Type 3: Three-Year Record
Shows only the last three years of your driving history. Often requested by:
- Insurance companies
- Employers during hiring
- Background check services
How to Get Your Driving Record
Online (Fastest and Most Convenient)
Order your driving record instantly through the Texas DPS website.
Cost:
- Certified copy: $12
- Processing surcharge: Approximately $2.50
- Total: Around $14.50
What you'll need:
- Your driver's license number
- Date of birth
- Last 4 digits of your Social Security number
- Credit or debit card for payment
Your record is available immediately after payment. You can download and print it or save it digitally.
By Mail
If you prefer mail, complete the Driving Record Request Form (Form DR-1) and send it to the Texas DPS with a check or money order.
Steps:
- Download and complete Form DR-1 from the DPS website
- Include payment (check or money order) - cost varies by record type
- Mail to the address listed on the form
- Allow 2-3 weeks for processing and delivery
Through a Driving School
Some driving schools can order your record for you, though this option is more expensive—typically $20 to $40 depending on the school. This method may include additional services like printing and mailing.
In-Person Requests
Important note: In-person requests at Texas DPS offices are currently unavailable. Check the DPS website for updates on when in-person services will resume.
How Your Driving Record Affects Insurance
Insurance companies use sophisticated underwriting models that analyze your driving record, claims history, and even credit score to determine your premiums. Your driving history is one of the most significant factors.
Impact of Common Violations
- Speeding ticket: Rate increase at next renewal, typically lasting 3 years
- At-fault accident: Significant premium increase, may last 3-5 years
- DWI/DUI: 20-50% or higher rate increase for 3-5+ years
- Reckless driving: Major rate increase, potential policy non-renewal
- License suspension: Dramatic rate increase, may require SR-22 filing
SR-22 Insurance Requirement
Certain violations—especially DWI convictions—may require you to file an SR-22 certificate. This is proof you carry state-mandated liability insurance, and it typically comes with much higher premiums. The SR-22 requirement can last for several years.
Risk Pools and Policy Non-Renewal
Insurance companies may refuse to renew policies for drivers with major infractions, forcing you into high-risk insurance pools where premiums are substantially higher. Insurers assign you to risk pools based on your driving behavior, and moving to a higher-risk category significantly impacts costs.
Ways to Reduce Insurance Impact
Even with violations on your record, you can take steps to manage costs:
- Bundle policies: Combine auto with homeowners or renters insurance for discounts
- Accident forgiveness: Some insurers offer coverage that protects you from rate hikes after your first at-fault accident (may not be available for high-risk drivers)
- Raise deductibles: Higher deductibles mean lower monthly premiums, though you'll pay more out-of-pocket for claims
- Shop around: Different insurers weigh violations differently—compare quotes regularly
- Take defensive driving: Some insurers offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses
Employment Background Checks
Many employers review driving records during the hiring process, especially for positions involving:
- Delivery drivers
- Commercial vehicle operators
- Sales representatives who travel
- Jobs with company vehicles
- Transportation and logistics
What Employers Look For
Employers assess your driving record to evaluate safety and reliability. Red flags include:
- DUI/DWI convictions
- Multiple at-fault accidents
- Excessive speeding violations
- Reckless or aggressive driving citations
- License suspensions or revocations
Criminal Records vs. Driving Records
Serious traffic violations can appear on both your driving record and criminal record if they're classified as misdemeanors or felonies. This includes DWIs, hit-and-run incidents, and vehicular assault. These convictions can affect employment opportunities beyond just driving positions.
How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Record?
Different violations remain on your Texas driving record for varying periods:
- Minor violations (speeding, running red light): Typically 3 years
- At-fault accidents: Generally 3-5 years
- DWI/DUI: Permanent on driving record, though insurance impact usually lasts 3-5 years
- Major violations: Can remain permanently or for extended periods
- License suspensions: May remain visible for several years after reinstatement
While violations remain on your official record, their impact on insurance rates typically diminishes over time, especially if you maintain a clean record going forward.
Maintaining a Clean Driving Record
Keeping your driving record clean protects your finances, employment prospects, and driving privileges. Here's how:
Practice Safe Driving Habits
- Obey speed limits and traffic signals
- Avoid aggressive or distracted driving
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Maintain safe following distances
- Use turn signals and follow right-of-way rules
Address Tickets Promptly
If you receive a citation, handle it quickly. Depending on the violation, you may be able to:
- Take a defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket (for eligible violations)
- Pay the fine to avoid additional penalties
- Contest the ticket in court if you believe it was issued in error
Ignoring tickets leads to additional fines, potential license suspension, and worse consequences for your record.
Check Your Record Regularly
Review your driving record annually to:
- Verify accuracy—errors do happen
- Monitor when violations will drop off
- Prepare for insurance renewals or job applications
- Catch any fraudulent activity or identity theft
Take Defensive Driving Courses
Completing state-approved defensive driving courses can:
- Dismiss certain traffic tickets
- Reduce points on your record
- Qualify you for insurance discounts
- Refresh your knowledge of traffic laws
Disputing Errors on Your Record
If you find inaccurate information on your driving record, contact the Texas Department of Public Safety immediately. You'll need to provide:
- Documentation proving the error (court records, dismissal paperwork, etc.)
- A written explanation of the discrepancy
- Your driver's license number and contact information
The DPS will investigate and correct verified errors. Keep copies of all correspondence and documentation for your records.
Common Questions
Can I get someone else's driving record?
No. Texas driving records are protected by privacy laws. You can only access your own record unless you have legal authorization (such as being an employer conducting a background check with the applicant's consent).
How often should I check my driving record?
Check your record at least once a year, and always before applying for new insurance or jobs that require driving. Also check it after any traffic citation to ensure it's recorded accurately.
Will a parking ticket appear on my driving record?
No. Parking violations are civil matters and don't appear on your driving record. They won't affect your insurance rates or license status.
Can I remove violations from my record?
Generally, no. Violations remain for their designated period. However, you may be able to take defensive driving to dismiss certain tickets before they're added, or have errors corrected if information is inaccurate.
Does a clean record guarantee low insurance rates?
While a clean driving record helps, insurance companies also consider other factors like age, location, vehicle type, credit score, and claims history. A clean record is important but not the only factor in determining rates.
What happens if I get too many violations?
Excessive violations (typically more than four in a year) can lead to license suspension. You'll receive notices from the DPS before suspension occurs, giving you an opportunity to address the situation.
How do I know if my violation requires SR-22?
The court or DPS will notify you if you're required to file SR-22. This typically applies to DWI convictions, driving without insurance, or multiple serious violations. Contact your insurance company—they can file the SR-22 for you.
Important Reminders
- Order your driving record before applying for new insurance—surprises cost money
- Check your record before job applications requiring driving
- Address tickets promptly to minimize impact on your record
- Consider defensive driving courses for eligible violations
- Report errors on your record immediately to the DPS
- A clean record takes time to rebuild—start practicing safe driving habits now
- Shop around for insurance—different companies weigh violations differently
Need Help?
For questions about your driving record or to order a copy: