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Whether you’re the best driver in the world or you’ve had a few infractions, you may be curious if people can view your driving records. So, is your driving available to the public? Well, the short answer is yes, but make sure you stick around to learn more.
In this guide, we cover when someone can view your driving records, but we also cover the circumstances in which this is possible. Read on to learn more.
Driving Records Explained
It may seem self-explanatory, but understanding your driving record is important. While your driving record is a collection of infractions or violations you may have incurred, it may also contain misdemeanors and felonies. For example, vehicular manslaughter is something that will appear on both your driving record and criminal record.
That said, driving records may also contain some of the more positive steps you’ve taken to improve your driving record. For example, driving courses you’ve taken may show up on your driving record. On the other hand, points and other issues with your license may also be present.
Is Your Driving Record Available to the Public?
Yes and no. Whether or not your driving record is available to the public depends on what’s included on it. For example, if you have a DUI or DWI, that information is usually available to the public; in fact, there’s probably an article about it online and in your local newspaper.
That said, a speeding ticket you got four years ago probably isn’t available to the public any more thanks to protections outlined in the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). However, it may still be on your driving record, especially for insurance companies and state organizations.
Parties Who Can View Driving Records
Your driving records aren’t usually available to your friend Sally down the street, but that doesn’t mean certain individuals and organizations can’t view them. In fact, with your consent, almost anyone can view your driving record; the key component there is the consent. Learn about organizations who can view your driving records below.
Government Agencies
First and foremost, government agencies can usually view your driving record. Police officers, FBI and other state and federal organizations can view your driving record.
While this usually isn’t an issue, it can be if you want to apply for a government position or a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Insurance Companies
If you’ve ever received a speeding ticket, there’s a good chance that you noticed an increase in your car insurance prices. This is due to the fact that insurance companies can view your driving records.
When you get a ticket or another type of traffic violation, they can adjust their rates accordingly.
Employers
In some cases, employers can also view your driving record. This is more common in situations that involve driving for work, but it’s possible for other employers to view your driving record.
For example, if you want to apply for a job that involves transporting people, you may need to consent to a driving records search. On a criminal background check, criminal driving records will also be available.
How to Check Your Driving Record
The good news is that your driving record is also available to you. If you’re worried about the information that shows up on your driving record, you can use a third-party tool to view all available records or contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Contacting the DMV
Contacting the DMV is a simple way to view your driving record. You can request this information online (if a database is available) or you can visit the DMV in person. Depending on your situation, an appointment may be necessary.
Person Search Tools
When you want to view your driving record, or even someone else’s, you can’t go wrong with a person search tool with public record access. Simply enter your information into the search tool to learn more about your driving record. And the best part? The full report contains all available public records tied to your information.
Is Your Driving Record Available to the Public? Final Thoughts
So, is your driving record available to the public? Ultimately, it depends on your situation, but your neighbor down the street probably can’t view your driving records (unless they’re criminal records). That said, employers, government agencies and insurance companies can view these records. To avoid complications with your driving record, make sure you keep an eye on it via the DMV or person search tools.
