Obtaining a driving record in Arkansas is vital for employers, insurance agencies, and individuals seeking to understand their traffic history. Arkansas residents can easily access their driving records online through the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). In this guide, we will walk you through how to get your driving record, the fees involved, and why maintaining an accurate driving history is crucial.
What is an Arkansas Driving Record?
An Arkansas driving record provides a comprehensive history of traffic violations, accidents, and the status of a driver’s license. These records are essential for insurance evaluations and employment background checks, ensuring compliance with state regulations and helping companies assess risk.
Types of Arkansas Driving Records
1. Insurance Records:
These show traffic violations from the last three years and are used by insurance companies to determine risk levels and premiums. You can obtain an insurance record for $8.50 by mail or in person, or for $10.00 online.
2. Commercial Records:
Designed for employment purposes, commercial records include data that may go beyond the three-year period. These records cost $10.00 if requested by mail or in person, and $13.00 online.
3. History Records:
This is the complete driving history of an individual since obtaining their license. These records are only available by mail or in person from the Driving Records Office in Little Rock.
Information Included in Arkansas Driving Records
An Arkansas driving record contains important details, such as traffic violations, accidents, and license status. These records are crucial for verifying driving history for employment and evaluating insurance risks. Keeping your record accurate helps prevent errors that could affect your insurance premiums or driving privileges. If you find an error, it’s essential to contact the relevant authorities to correct it.
How to Obtain Your Arkansas Driving Record
1. Eligibility Requirements
To obtain an Arkansas driving record, you must be a current Arkansas Driver License holder. This ensures only authorized individuals can request their records. Identity verification is required, and specific record types, such as commercial records, may have additional eligibility criteria for employment purposes.
2. Request Process
You can request your Arkansas driving record in three ways:
- Online: Visit the DFA website, navigate to the driving records section, and follow the prompts. An account setup may be required.
- By Mail: Complete the request form, include payment, and mail it to the DFA address.
- In Person: Visit your local DFA office with the required documentation for verification.
Make sure to provide valid payment, either by credit card (online) or checks/money orders (by mail).
Interpreting an Arkansas Driving Record
Understanding your Arkansas driving record is essential. Key components include:
Points System:
The Arkansas points system assigns points for traffic violations. Points can impact insurance rates and even lead to license suspension if they accumulate beyond a certain threshold. Reviewing your driving record helps you track your point total.
Violation Codes:
Violation codes represent specific traffic offenses, such as speeding or DUI. Each code corresponds to a particular offense and helps both individuals and employers quickly understand the nature of past violations.
Accident Reports:
Accident reports detail any incidents involving the driver, including fault and severity. Insurance companies and legal bodies often use these reports to assess liability and adjust rates.
Arkansas Driving Record Point System: What You Need to Know
The Arkansas Driving Record Point System assigns points for every traffic violation, aiming to monitor and manage risky drivers. Here’s how points are assigned:
| Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Minor Moving Violation | 3 |
| Moderate Moving Violation | 4-5 |
| Major Moving Violation | 6-8 |
Once a driver accumulates 10 points, they receive a warning letter. Accumulating 14 or more points within a 36-month period may lead to a suspended license. Regularly checking your points total is key to maintaining your driving privileges and avoiding penalties.
Why Regularly Reviewing Your Arkansas Driving Record is Important
Keeping track of your driving record helps you stay informed about your driving status, accumulated points, and potential penalties. Requesting your driving record regularly can also help prevent errors from affecting your insurance rates and driving privileges. For a small fee, you can easily access this information online, by mail, or in person.
Conclusion
Obtaining and maintaining an accurate Arkansas driving record is crucial for both personal and legal reasons. It affects your insurance rates, employment prospects, and your standing as a responsible driver. Make sure to follow the correct steps to access your record, and stay updated on your driving status to avoid unnecessary penalties.
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