So you need to get hold of your Texas driving record.
Maybe your insurance company is asking for it…
Maybe you’re required to present it to a court hearing…
Or maybe you’re applying for a driving job and your potential employer needs to see it…
Whatever the case, we’ve got you.
Today, we’re going to go through a complete guide on how to get a Texas driving record.
Moreover, we’ll also tell you about the different types of records (and trust us, there’s a lot), as well as how to improve your record and determine the Texas Point System.
Are you ready to dive in?
Before we get into the how, let’s go over the what — as in, what kind of driving records are available in Texas?
There are 6 types — three are certified, while the others aren’t.
And remember, the amount you pay varies depending on what record you request.
Let’s examine them further:
This driving record provides your name, birth date, license status, and home address. It also shows when you originally applied for your driver’s license.
A copy costs $4 ($4.50 if requested online).
This shows personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and license status.
You can also view the accidents you’ve been in and traffic violations you committed within the last three years.
Since it isn’t a certified copy, Type 2 driving records are typically for personal use.
A Type 2 driving record costs $6 ($6.50 if requested online).
This type contains the identical information as a Type 2 driving record but is certified. That means you can use it for most official purposes EXCEPT for a Defensive Driving Course.
This certified driving record costs $10. However, you’ll pay $12 if you request it online.
The information on this driving record is similar to that on a Type 2 record. However, it does not restrict your accidents and violations to the past three years — you’ll be able to see everything since you received your driver’s license.
Requesting it online costs $7.50. If by mail, it’s only $7, and the DPS only releases it to the record owner.
As its name implies, it’s a certified copy of the Type 3 driving record. It shows your personal information and all accidents and violations you’ve incurred since getting your license.
It’s also the driving record to use for a Defensive Driving Course. You can request one online for $12 ($10 if by mail).
Unlike Type 2 records, only the record owner can request this driving record type.
It’s a complete driving abstract of public records of any driver holding a Texas-issued driver’s license. It’s also a certified copy.
A copy costs $20 ($22 if online).
There are only two ways to get a driving record in Texas — online or by mail.
Unlike other states, driver’s license stations cannot release these documents.
That said, both channels are SUPER easy to use.
Ultimately, the best way for you will depend on your preference and timeline.
Convenience is the primary advantage of using the DPS online portal to request your Texas driving record.
If you’re in a rush to get a copy, it’s the best way to go.
Here’s what you have to do:
| NOTE: Don’t forget to read through the system requirements and ensure your computer meets them! |
And just like that, you have your Texas driving record — all from the comfort of your home!
Requesting your driving record by mail can be a better option if:
Mail-in requests will take up a little of your time — but there’s some waiting involved. This is why if you need your driving record immediately, you should secure it online.
However, if a by-mail request fits your needs, here are the steps:
| NOTE: If you’re requesting someone else’s copy, don’t forget to have the record owner sign their consent. You must also check one of the reasons on the second page. |
Texas Department of Public Safety
Austin, Texas 78714-9008
What if your Texas driving record isn’t clean?
Is there a way to remove points and improve it?
The violations on your record are there to stay (at least for 3 years after the conviction date), so the next best thing is to avoid adding more.
Here are some strategies to help you out:
The Driver Responsibility Program (DRP) in Texas began in 2003.
Under the DRP, drivers get 2 points for committing traffic violations, while those that result in a crash earn you 3 points.
However, in 2019, the DPR was repealed, which means the point system no longer exists in Texas.
Now, that does not mean that drivers aren’t held accountable for their actions.
Getting 4 or more moving traffic violations within 12 months may cause you to lose your driving privileges. The same applies if you have 7 or more moving traffic violations within 24 months.
And there you have it — anything and everything you need to know about the Texas driving records.
Now you know the kinds of driving records available, how much they cost, and how to get them.
Remember, knowing what’s on your driving record can go a long way to help you avoid a license suspension.
