Your driving record provides a snapshot of your history as a driver, including violations, accidents, and license suspensions. Checking it regularly in Texas can help you avoid surprises, whether for personal review, insurance, or job applications.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, your driving record can be especially important. Consulting a car accident attorney Houston can help you understand how your record affects claims or legal matters and ensure you’re properly protected.
Check Your Driving Record: Why?
Before diving into the process of checking your driving record, it’s crucial to understand why it matters:
- Insurance Premiums: Your driving history is a critical factor for insurance companies in determining your premium rates. A clean driving record can result in lower rates, while violations or accidents could cause an increase in your premiums.
- Employment Opportunities: Many employers, especially those hiring for driving positions, require a clean driving record. Checking your record beforehand ensures you’re aware of any issues that could impact your job prospects.
- Personal Protection: Regularly reviewing your record allows you to spot potential errors, such as incorrectly reported violations or points that might have been removed but still appear (Texas Transportation Code § 521.041).
How to Obtain Your Driving Record
In Texas, there are several convenient methods for checking your driving license record. Here’s how you can get access to your record:
1. Request Your Driving Record Online through Texas DPS
In Texas, there are several convenient methods for checking your driving license record. Here’s how you can get access to your record:
- Request Your Driving Record Online through Texas DPS
The most efficient way is through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You’ll need your Driver’s License Number, Date of Birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Fees generally range from $12 for an uncertified record to higher fees for certified copies (Texas Transportation Code § 521.102). - Request Your Driving Record In-Person at a Texas DPS Office
Bring your driver’s license and any other required identification. Fees are similar to online requests, and you will receive a printed copy after processing. - Request Your Driving Record by Mail
Complete the Driver Record Request Form (available on the DPS website) and mail it with payment. Your record will be mailed after processing, which may take several weeks. - Third-Party Services
Reputable third-party services can expedite access, but fees may be higher than through DPS.
2. Request Your Driving Record In-Person at a Texas DPS Office
If you prefer to request your driving record in person, you can visit a local Texas DPS office:
- Locate a DPS Office: Use the Texas DPS website to find your nearest location.
- Provide Required Documents: You will need to bring your driver’s license and any other identification required.
- Pay the Fee: The fee for in-person requests is similar to the online request.
- Receive Your Record: After processing, you will be given a printed copy of your driving record.
3. Request Your Driving Record by Mail
For those who prefer not to use online services or visit in person, you can request your driving record by mail:
- Complete the Request Form: Fill out the Driver Record Request Form (available on the Texas DPS website or at a local DPS office).
- Send the Form with Payment: Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for the appropriate fee.
- Wait for Your Record: Your driving record will be mailed to you after processing, which may take several weeks.
4. Third-Party Services for Driving Record Requests
There are also third-party services that can help you obtain your driving record quickly. However, these services tend to charge higher fees than the Texas DPS, so ensure you’re using a reputable provider to avoid any potential scams.
Information Required for your Driving Record
Your Texas driving record contains:
- Personal Details: Name, address, date of birth, and driver’s license number.
- Violations and Tickets: Traffic tickets, fines, or moving violations (Texas Transportation Code § 521.121).
- Accidents: Details of any accidents, including fault and legal proceedings.
- License Suspensions or Revocations: Noted on your record (Texas Transportation Code § 521.341).
- Points on Your License: Accumulated points can lead to penalties, including license suspension.
- Driving Restrictions: Any limitations, such as medical restrictions.
How Often Do You Check Your Driving Record?
It’s important to check your driving record regularly to ensure it’s accurate and up to date. Here are a few situations where you should consider checking it:
- After receiving a Ticket: Check your record to confirm whether the ticket has been processed correctly.
- Before applying for Insurance: Ensure your driving history is accurate to avoid unexpected increases in your insurance premium.
- Before a Job Application: If you’re applying for a job that requires driving, a clean record could improve your chances of being hired.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If you’re facing issues with your driving record, traffic violations, or have been involved in a car accident, consulting a Houston personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and minimize potential consequences. An experienced attorney can guide you through disputes, negotiations, and court proceedings, ensuring your record and legal standing are handled correctly. You may want to contact a lawyer in situations such as:
- Errors on Your Driving Record: Dispute inaccuracies like incorrect tickets or violations that weren’t yours.
- License Suspension or Revocation: Understand the reasons for suspension and explore options to reinstate your driving privileges.
- Accumulated Points: Reduce points and penalties through defensive driving courses or other legal strategies.
- Serious Traffic Violations: Get legal representation for DUI, reckless driving, or other offenses that impact your record and insurance.
- Car Accidents: Work with a Houston personal injury attorney to navigate claims and protect your rights after an accident.
Don’t Wait, Verify Your Driving Record Today
Checking your driving license record is an essential step in staying informed about your driving history. Whether you’re preparing for a job application, managing insurance rates, or simply ensuring there are no mistakes, knowing how to access your record is key. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can request your driving record online, in person, or by mail. Regularly reviewing your record helps you address any discrepancies before they cause complications.
If you need assistance disputing errors or understanding how your driving record might affect other areas of your life, our team at The Law Office of Michael Bates can help. Their experienced attorneys, including an auto accident lawyer, can guide you through correcting inaccuracies, handling traffic violations, and protecting your rights.