Guide to Washington State MVR Checks

Motor vehicle record checks are often used during the hiring process to help employers evaluate a candidate's driving history and qualifications for roles that involve operating vehicles. A motor vehicle record (MVR) provides information about an individual's driving record, including violations, license status, and any restrictions or endorsements.

A Washington MVR check is a motor vehicle report issued by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Also called an Abstract Driver Record, it shows a person's complete driving history, including license status, violations, accidents, and administrative actions.

Employers use Washington State MVR checks to verify driving history for positions involving vehicle operation, deliveries, or passenger transport. These records include violations, collisions, suspensions, revocations, and DUI-related actions. They also include license class and status, endorsements, and restrictions.

The Washington State Department of Licensing offers several versions of driving records, each designed for specific purposes. Understanding these different types helps employers choose the right record for their needs.

A complete driving record contains the most detailed version of a driver's history. It lists all recorded events, including violations, collisions, suspensions, revocations, deferred prosecutions, and failures to appear in court. This comprehensive record is commonly used in legal proceedings or when a complete history is required.

An employment driving record is specifically formatted for hiring and workplace decisions. It shows relevant information such as current license status, violations, collisions, and any suspensions or revocations that might affect job performance. This version focuses on information most relevant to employers making hiring decisions.

An insurance abstract provides a summarized record that insurance companies use to evaluate driving risk. It typically covers the past three years of driving events, including convictions, violations, and collisions. Insurance companies use this information to set premium rates and assess an individual’s eligibility for coverage.

An alcohol and drug assessment record is a specialized report used in substance abuse evaluations and treatment programs. It lists alcohol- or drug-related driving incidents from the past 10 years and any related license actions. Chemical dependency assessment agencies typically request this type of record.

A Washington driving record, also called a drivers abstract, contains comprehensive information about a person's driving history as maintained by the Washington State DOL. The specific information included depends on the type of record that’s requested.

Common elements found on Washington state driving records include:

Unlike some states, Washington does not use a point system for tracking violations. Instead, the state maintains a record of actual violations and administrative actions.

The process for requesting a state driving record varies depending on who needs the information. Employers follow different procedures than individuals requesting their own records.

Employers can request MVR checks through the Washington DOL directly. They have three different options:

Each method requires a $15 fee.

Employers may also request an individual’s MVR through a background check provider, like Checkr, for faster results or for a comprehensive background check including driving history. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), employers must obtain written authorization from candidates before requesting an MVR.

Employers must also follow the FCRA's adverse action process if they decide not to hire someone based partly on information found in their driving record.

Individuals can request their own Washington driving record directly from the Washington State Department of Licensing. Available methods include online submission through the DOL website, mail-in forms, or in-person requests at a licensing office.

The DOL charges a standard fee for each record request, and individuals must provide identification and pay the required fee regardless of the method they use.

The cost of a Washington MVR check varies based on the record type, the method of purchase, and whether it's requested directly from the state or through a screening service.

Checkr offers MVR checks within customizable background check packages, starting at $29.99 per report. Volume discounts are available for employers who conduct multiple screenings. Third-party pass-through fees may apply depending on the specific records requested.

Individuals can order a Washington state driving record directly from the Washington DOL for $15. The exact cost may vary based on the type of record requested and the method used to obtain it.

Turnaround time for Washington driving record requests depends on the ordering method and the source used to obtain the information.

Ordering directly through the Washington State DOL can take several business days, particularly for mail-in requests or in-person visits to licensing offices. Online requests through the DOL website are typically faster than mail or in-person methods.

Using a third-party background check provider, like Checkr, delivers faster results through automated systems and direct data connections. Many MVR checks through Checkr are completed within hours rather than days, and results are delivered in a standardized, easy-to-read format that integrates with existing hiring workflows.

Employers who use MVR checks in Washington must follow federal and state regulations that govern how driving records are requested and used in employment decisions. These laws protect candidates’ privacy while allowing employers to make informed hiring decisions.

Key legal requirements include:

Washington state law also requires employers to avoid discriminatory practices when using driving records in hiring decisions. They must wait until they know a candidate is qualified for a role before conducting a background check.

Checkr provides Washington State MVR checks through a unified screening platform that streamlines the entire process from candidate consent to final reporting. The system includes automated workflows, direct data connections, and FCRA-compliant procedures.

Key features include:

Checkr's platform helps employers make informed hiring decisions while complying with federal regulations. Get started with Checkr to streamline your background check process.

Washington driving records show different timeframes depending on the type of record and violation. Insurance abstracts typically show three years of history, while alcohol- or drug-related entries can appear for up to 10 years or even for life. Complete records may include the full history maintained by the Washington DOL.

No, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers must obtain written consent from candidates before ordering an MVR through a consumer reporting agency for employment purposes. Running employment MVR checks without proper consent from the candidate violates federal law.

Both terms refer to the same type of driving record report. "Driver abstract" or "Abstract Driver Record" is the term used by the Washington State Department of Licensing, while "MVR" is the general industry term for motor vehicle reports.

Some out-of-state violations may appear on Washington driving records because the state participates in interstate data-sharing agreements. However, the information shown depends on what other states report to Washington and applicable interstate compact rules.

Many employers run MVR checks at the time of hire and then periodically for employees whose jobs involve driving. Common practices, especially for employers subject to the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act and FMCSA regulations, include annual checks or ongoing MVR monitoring services that automatically notify employers when new violations occur between scheduled reviews.

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