Texas MVR checks and driving record reports

A motor vehicle report in Texas, also called a Texas MVR, is a record of an individual’s driving history within the state of Texas. There are six types of records available, reporting information including license status, traffic tickets, moving violations, and DUI convictions. Records are maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Employers often use Texas MVRs to evaluate candidates for roles that require driving or operating company vehicles. A Texas MVR does not show violations from other states, so employers that need comprehensive records may have to search multiple states or partner with a background check provider, like Checkr.

Here’s a closer look at the six types of driving records available through the Texas DPS:

Each type reveals different levels of detail, including:

In Texas, complete accident and violation records (Type 3 and 3A) are only available to the license holder. However, candidates can request these records and share them with prospective employers.

Employers may directly request Type 1, 2, 2A, or AR records by submitting Form DR-1 by mail. When using a consumer reporting agency (CRA) to obtain an MVR, additional restrictions apply:

In addition to the Texas DPS, there are two other state agencies involved with Texas driving records:

In Texas, individuals may order a driving record directly through the Texas DPS website or by mail. Employers may also use the DPS site to review a candidate's Texas driving record or to work with a CRA, like Checkr. Checkr offers comprehensive Texas MVR checks as a standalone screening, with results typically available within one day, though most finish within minutes. For positions that require regular screening for drivers, Checkr offers continuous MVR checks, which identify changes in your employees' or gig workers' records to mitigate potential risk.

All background checks conducted through a CRA, including driving record checks, must comply with the FCRA and related state or local laws. These requirements include the proper disclosure of intent to conduct a background check, obtaining written consent from the candidate, and following the adverse action process if you may make a negative hiring decision based on a background check.

Hiring safe drivers helps organizations minimize risk, reduce liability, and lower insurance premiums. Employers should consider conducting a Texas MVR background check in the following situations.

If you’re interviewing candidates for positions that involve driving or operating machinery, it’s helpful to use Texas driving records to review a candidate's driving history.  to help determine their eligibility for the role.

Texas businesses that employ commercial drivers crossing state lines are typically required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to conduct pre-employment and annual MVR reports. This applies to:

Depending on vehicle type, drivers may need a Class A, Class B, or Class C commercial driver's license.

In Texas, certain types of driving positions are regulated by state and local laws and may be subject to motor vehicle record checks. For example, school bus drivers across the state must meet standards based on a seven-year Texas motor vehicle report check. In addition, rideshare services are required to conduct both MVR and criminal background checks on their drivers.

Multiple state and federal regulations govern how Texas MVRs can be accessed and what information is available to employers. Here's what employers should know.

The Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) is a federal law protecting personal information on driver's licenses and motor vehicle records from public disclosure. While personal information is generally protected from employers, exceptions exist for commercial driver's licenses—requiring written consent before access. See law.

Under the Texas Motor Vehicle Records Disclosure Act, disclosing and using personal information found on motor vehicle records is prohibited, unless required by law or authorized by the individual. However, certain groups, with permission of the license holder, are allowed to access and verify information contained in Texas MVRs. These can include employers, charitable organizations, nonprofits, and religious institutions.

Whether your future employees will be driving company vehicles or traveling for sales calls, Texas MVR checks are a helpful addition to background screening programs. Conducting these searches independently can be time-consuming and costly, but a qualified background check provider like Checkr can streamline the process.

Checkr offers flexible options for driving record checks: