A driver's license check tells you what the DMV has on file about a person's driving record and license status
When you run a driver's license, you are looking up someone's record in the DMV database to see whether their license is valid, suspended, or revoked, and what violations or incidents appear on their driving history. This is different from a background check — it focuses only on driving-related information, not criminal history or employment records.
The person whose license you are checking must give you permission first. You cannot legally pull someone's record without their knowledge or consent, even if you are a family member or employer. The DMV protects this information because it is personal.
The most common reasons to run a license check are: you are hiring someone who will drive for work, you are renting a car to someone, you are considering a carpool arrangement, or you are verifying that your own record is correct before explore for a job or insurance.
Key Takeaways
- You need the person's written permission and their full name, date of birth, and driver's license number to request a record check from the DMV.
- Most states charge a fee ($5 to $15 typically) to pull a driving record, and the fee varies by state and by whether you want a certified copy.
- You can request a record in person at a DMV office, by mail, online through your state's DMV website, or through a third-party service that charges extra but processes faster.
- A driving record shows license status, suspension or revocation dates, traffic violations, accidents, and points or violations that affect insurance rates and driving privileges.
- Your own driving record is yours to see anytime; checking it yourself does not require anyone's permission and costs less than asking the DMV to mail it to you.
What information appears on a driver's license record
A driving record includes the person's name, date of birth, license number, and the expiration date of their current license. It also shows whether the license is valid, suspended, revoked, or expired. If the license is not valid, the record will say why — for example, "suspended for unpaid traffic fines" or "revoked for DUI conviction."
The record lists traffic violations from the past three to five years (the exact timeframe depends on your state). These include speeding tickets, reckless driving, running a red light, and other moving violations. It also shows accidents you were involved in, even if you were not at fault, because insurers and employers use this information to assess risk.
Many states also show points or violation codes. Points accumulate when you get tickets, and too many points in a short time can trigger a suspension. For example, one state might add three points for speeding 1–10 mph over the limit and six points for speeding 31+ mph over the limit. When your total reaches 12 points in 12 months, your license is suspended.
How to request your own driving record
The fastest way to see your own record is to visit your state's DMV website and look for a link labeled "driving record," "check my record," or "order my record." Most states now offer online ordering, and you can usually get a copy within a few days. You will need your driver's license number and date of birth to log in.
If your state does not offer online ordering, you can visit a DMV office in person with your ID and request a copy on the spot. This takes about 15 minutes. You can also mail a request to your state DMV with a copy of your ID and a check or money order for the fee, though this takes one to two weeks.
Checking your own record costs less than asking the DMV to send it to someone else. A self-ordered copy usually costs $3 to $8, while a certified copy sent to a third party costs $10 to $15. Some states offer one free record check per year if you request it online.
How to request someone else's driving record
You must have the person's written permission before you request their record. This can be a signed form, an email, or a text message — anything that shows they agreed. The DMV will not release the record without proof of consent.
Collect the person's full name, date of birth, and driver's license number. You will also need to provide your own name and the reason you are requesting the record (for example, "employment verification" or "insurance underwriting"). Some states ask you to state your relationship to the person — employer, insurance company, or other.
Submit your request through your state's DMV website if it offers third-party ordering, by mail with a signed consent form, or in person at a DMV office. Processing time ranges from same-day (if you go in person) to two weeks (if you mail it). Third-party services like LexisNexis or Checkr can pull the record for you in 24 to 48 hours, but they charge a markup on top of the DMV fee — usually $15 to $30 total.
Why employers and insurers run license checks
An employer who hires someone to drive — a delivery driver, rideshare driver, school bus driver, or sales representative — will run a license check to confirm the person's license is valid and to see what violations are on their record. A suspended or revoked license is an automatic disqualification. Multiple accidents or serious violations like DUI may also disqualify a candidate or require additional training.
Insurance companies run license checks before issuing a policy or when renewing one. Violations, accidents, and suspensions all raise your insurance premium or can cause an insurer to deny coverage altogether. If you have a suspended license, most insurers will not cover you until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated.
Rental car companies also check licenses before handing over a vehicle. They want to confirm your license is valid and sometimes review your record for recent violations or accidents. A very poor driving record may result in a higher deposit or a refusal to rent to you.
What to do if your record has errors
If you see a violation, accident, or suspension on your record that you believe is wrong, contact your state DMV in writing and explain the error. Include a copy of the record showing the mistake, your driver's license number, and any supporting documents — for example, a court document showing the ticket was dismissed, or a letter from the court saying the conviction was overturned.
The DMV will investigate and either correct the record or send you a letter explaining why the information is correct. This process takes four to eight weeks. While you are waiting, ask for a letter from the DMV stating that a correction is pending; you can show this to an employer or insurer if the error is affecting a decision about you.
If the error involves a suspension or revocation, contact the court or agency that imposed it, not just the DMV. For example, if you were suspended for unpaid fines, the court that issued the fine must confirm that you have paid it before the DMV can lift the suspension. The DMV cannot override a court order.
Fees and processing times by method
| Method | Cost | Processing Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (your own record) | $3–$8 | Same day to 3 days | Quick self-check, lowest cost |
| In person at DMV | $5–$12 | 15 minutes to 1 hour | when ready need, can visit office |
| Mail request | $5–$15 | 7–14 days | No rush, prefer paper copy |
| Third-party service (LexisNexis, Checkr) | $15–$30 | 24–48 hours | Employer or insurer needing fast turnaround |
Fees and timeframes vary by state. Some states charge more for certified copies or for records older than a certain date. A few states offer one free record check per year if you request it online; check your state DMV website to see if you may have access to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check someone's license status without their permission?
No. The DMV will not release someone's record without their written consent. If you are an employer or insurer, you must have a signed form or documented agreement from the person before you request their record. Attempting to obtain a record without permission is illegal in most states.
How far back does a driving record go?
Most states show violations and accidents from the past three to five years on a standard record. Suspensions and revocations may appear longer, sometimes indefinitely. Some states allow you to request a longer history for a higher fee. Check your state DMV website for the exact timeframe.
Will checking my own driving record hurt my credit or show up anywhere?
No. Checking your own driving record does not affect your credit score and does not appear on any other report. It is a soft inquiry that only you and the DMV see. Employers and insurers will only know you checked it if you tell them.
What if my license is suspended — can I still see my record?
Yes. You can always view your own record, even if your license is suspended or revoked. In fact, checking your record is a good way to find out why your license was suspended and what you need to do to get it reinstated. Contact the DMV or the court that issued the suspension for next steps.
How much does it cost to get a certified copy of my driving record?
A certified copy usually costs $10 to $15, depending on your state. A certified copy has an official seal and signature and is required by some employers, courts, and insurance companies. An uncertified copy costs less ($3 to $8) but may not be accepted for official purposes. Ask the person requesting your record which type they need.