Why You Need Your Texas Driving Record
Your Texas driving record is an official document maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that contains your complete driving history. You may need it for:
- Ticket Dismissal: Courts require a copy of your driving record when you submit your defensive driving certificate
- Insurance Purposes: Insurers review your record to determine rates
- Employment: Many employers check driving records for jobs involving vehicle operation
- License Renewal: Verify your record is accurate before renewal
- Personal Review: Check for errors or unauthorized activity
Types of Texas Driving Records
| Record Type | What It Includes | Cost |
|---|
| Type 1 — Status Record | Current license status only (valid, suspended, etc.) | $4.00 |
| Type 2 — 3-Year Record | Crashes and violations from the past 3 years | $6.00 |
| Type 2A — Certified 3-Year | Same as Type 2 but certified for court use | $6.00 |
| Type 3 — Complete Record | All crashes and violations on file (entire history) | $7.00 |
| Type 3A — Certified Complete | Same as Type 3 but certified for court use | $10.00 |
For Ticket Dismissal: Most courts require a Type 2A (Certified 3-Year Record). Check with your specific court to confirm which type they accept.
How to Get Your Driving Record Online
The fastest way to get your Texas driving record is through the DPS website:
- Visit the Texas DPS Driver Record Request page at www.texas.gov/driving-records
- Select the type of record you need
- Enter your personal information (name, date of birth, driver's license number, last 4 digits of SSN)
- Pay the fee with a credit or debit card
- Download and print your record immediately
What's On Your Driving Record?
Your Texas driving record contains:
- Personal Information: Name, date of birth, license number, address
- License Status: Valid, suspended, revoked, or expired
- Traffic Violations: Citations, convictions, and dismissed tickets
- Crash Reports: Any reported accidents
- Points: Points assessed for moving violations
- Suspensions/Revocations: Any periods of license suspension or revocation
- Completed Courses: Defensive driving courses and other safety courses on record
How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Record?
| Violation Type | Time on Record |
|---|
| Minor moving violations (speeding, red light) | 3 years |
| Major violations (reckless driving) | 3-5 years |
| DUI/DWI | Permanently (on complete record) |
| Crashes | 3-5 years |
| Dismissed tickets (via defensive driving) | Not shown as conviction |
Pro Tip: Dismissed tickets through defensive driving do not appear as convictions on your driving record. This is one of the biggest benefits of taking a defensive driving course.
How to Correct Errors on Your Driving Record
If you find incorrect information on your driving record:
- Gather supporting documentation (court records, certificates, etc.)
- Visit your local DPS office or contact them at (512) 424-2600
- Submit a written request with copies of your documentation
- DPS will investigate and make corrections if warranted