How to Check Driving Records: A Step-By-Step Guide
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A driving record—also known as a motor vehicle record (MVR)—provides a snapshot of an individual’s history on the road. Employers may review driving records as part of the background screening process, or individuals may request it for personal reference. This guide outlines how to check a driving record, what information it may report, and how state-specific regulations can influence the process for both businesses and individuals.
Key takeaways:
- Driving records may include license status, traffic violations, accident history, and other state-reported driving activity.
- Requesting records across multiple states can be time-consuming; using a consumer reporting agency, like Checkr, can help simplify the process.
- Checkr offers driving record checks as part of customizable background screening packages, combining compliance support, automation, and quick turnaround times for both employers and individuals. Get started today.
What is a driving record?
A driving record, also referred to as a motor vehicle record or MVR, is a government-issued document that may provide details about an individual’s driving history. These records are typically maintained by a state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Public Safety, or equivalent licensing authority. Driving records often include personal information about the individual driver as well as license and accident information.
Access to driving records is governed by state-specific laws, which may determine how long information is retained and under what circumstances it may be shared. In many cases, an individual must give their consent before a third party can access their record.
What can show up on a driving record?
A driving record may contain detailed information maintained by a state’s DMV, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), or equivalent licensing authority. The specific contents of an MVR can vary by state due to differing laws, reporting practices, and record retention policies. However, most records include similar categories of information related to licensing, violations, and eligibility to operate a motor vehicle.
For individuals
Data that you’re most likely to see on a driving record or MVR report includes the driver’s personal information, relevant traffic violations, a history of accidents, and point totals and any compliance actions taken:
- Personal information. This may include full name, residential address, and date of birth.
- License details. This generally includes driver’s license number and issuing state. It may also list the license type and current status, like whether it’s valid, revoked, or expired.
- Traffic violations and convictions. Examples include moving violations, like speeding or reckless driving, and non-moving violations, such as seatbelt citations. Additionally, driving-related misdemeanors or felonies, such as DUI, DWI, and vehicular assault or homicide, may be reported in some states, while other states report driving-related convictions on a criminal background check.
- Accident and incident history. This can include reports of motor vehicle accidents, if submitted to the DMV. Details may include fault determination, property damage, personal injury, or fatality involvement (where applicable). Other data includes administrative actions, such as suspensions, related to accidents.
- Points and compliance actions. In states that use a point system, points may be assessed for traffic violations. You may see a record of defensive driving or driver improvement course completions, if applicable. Other information can include notices of license suspension, reinstatement, or revocation.
State-by-state variations
Driving records are regulated at the state level, and the retention period, level of detail, and access rules may differ. For example:
- Some states provide driving history for the past 3-10 years, depending on the request type and purpose.
- Access to records may be restricted to authorized parties and require written consent under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA).
- In certain states, driving-related offenses may not appear in criminal background checks but may be reported in MVRs.
For example, the Oregon DMV limits public access to protect driver privacy, while Indiana’s BMV outlines who may obtain records under specific circumstances. Always refer to your state’s official DMV, or similar authority, for the most current policies.
Why check a driving record?
There are many reasons individuals and organizations may choose to review a driving record. Whether for employment purposes or personal awareness, a driving record can offer insight into an individual’s history behind the wheel and help support an informed hiring decision.
For personal use
Reviewing your own driving record may be helpful when preparing for a job search, applying for insurance, or planning a relocation. It gives you an opportunity to:
- Understand what information may be visible to employers or insurance providers
- Identify and address potential inaccuracies or outdated violations
- Track your driving history and license status over time
- Clarify whether previous violations or citations have been properly recorded
Conducting a personal driving record check may give you more confidence when discussing your qualifications with employers or preparing for insurance applications.
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For employment purposes
Organizations across the US may choose—or in some cases be required—to review driving records when hiring or managing employees in roles that involve operating motor vehicles. Reasons for conducting a motor vehicle record check may include:
- Meeting regulatory or industry-specific requirements: Employers operating commercial vehicles or engaging in interstate commerce may be subject to federal regulations, including those set by the Department of Transportation (DOT) or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which may require pre-employment and ongoing driver record checks.
- Promoting workplace and public safety: Reviewing a candidate’s driving history may help employers assess potential safety risks and align with internal safety policies.
- Managing insurance considerations: Employees with serious or frequent driving violations may affect a company’s insurance eligibility or premiums, making it important to evaluate driving records as part of overall risk management.
- Verifying candidate information: An MVR check can help confirm the accuracy of driving-related details shared during the hiring process, particularly for roles involving commercial or high-mileage driving.
Employers should always ensure that any driving record checks comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws. They should also obtain appropriate consent from the applicant before starting the screening process.
How to request a driving record
Driving records can typically be requested through a state’s DMV or equivalent agency. The process varies by state and by the requestor type (personal user or employer), and it may be subject to state and federal privacy laws such as the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
For personal use
Individuals may request a copy of their own driving record for personal use, such as reviewing accuracy, preparing for job applications, or checking license status. Depending on the state, you may be able to request your record through one of the following methods:
- Online. Many states offer online portals for accessing driving records. This process may include searching your state DMV website for services related to “driving records” or “MVRs,” creating an account, providing details like your driver’s license number, and paying a fee. Some states, such as Florida, Ohio, and Colorado, offer rapid online access to uncertified records.
- In person. You may be able to visit a local DMV office to request your record directly, which can be helpful for those who need same-day access or prefer in-person assistance. Bring valid identification (such as your driver’s license or state ID), complete a driving record request form, pay any applicable fees, and receive a printed copy of your record on site.
- By mail. If you are unable to request your record in person or online, most states allow for mail-in requests. Download the official request form from your DMV’s website, fill in your personal information and license details, include payment, and mail to the address specified on the form. Processing and delivery may take 1–4 weeks, depending on the state.
- Through a third-party provider. Some authorized third-party services, such as insurance agencies or court clerks, may provide access to your driving record, depending on your state. Fees, access types, and processing times may vary.
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For employment purposes
Employers who need to review a candidate’s driving history as part of a background check may obtain MVRs through several legally acceptable channels:
- Request directly from the DMV. Employers can request MVRs directly from a state DMV using mail, online portals, or in-person services. However, managing separate requests across multiple states can be time-consuming and complex, especially for companies hiring at scale.
- Ask the candidate to provide the record. Some employers may ask job applicants to request and submit their own MVRs. In these cases, requesting a certified record (issued and verified by the DMV) can help ensure the information is official and complete. However, turnaround times for certified records may vary.
- Use a third-party background check provider. Many employers rely on consumer reporting agencies (CRAs), like Checkr, to conduct MVR background checks as part of a broader employment screening process. Reputable CRAs can help standardize MVR data across states for easier review, support compliance with laws like the FCRA, and deliver background results quickly.
When using a third-party provider, employers must obtain written consent from the candidate before requesting the report and follow all applicable legal guidelines for use and adverse action, if necessary.
Check driving records with Checkr
Whether you're an individual looking to understand your driving history or an employer aiming to make informed hiring decisions, accessing accurate driving records can support safer outcomes and smarter choices. While it’s possible to request records directly from state agencies, navigating different systems, timelines, and compliance requirements can be challenging. A trusted screening partner, like Checkr, can help streamline the process by combining speed, transparency, and built-in compliance features—all in one platform. From MVR checks to full background screenings, Checkr offers tools that help reduce administrative burden and support confident hiring decisions.
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Disclaimer
The resources and information provided here are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult your own counsel for up-to-date legal advice and guidance related to your practices, needs, and compliance with applicable laws.