Your Delaware driving record is an official summary of your driving history, and it’s used for much more than just tracking tickets. Employers, insurance companies, and courts often use this document to assess your responsibility as a driver.
Whether you need it for a job application, to check your license points, or simply for your own peace of mind, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining and understanding your official Delaware driving record.
Why You Might Need Your Driving Record
There are several common reasons why you might need a copy of your driving record:
- Employment Screening: Many jobs that involve driving require a clean record.
- Insurance Rates: Your driving history directly impacts your auto insurance premiums. A good record can lead to lower rates.
- Legal Proceedings: A certified record is often required for court appearances related to traffic violations.
- Personal Review: It’s wise to periodically check your record for accuracy and to be aware of your current point total.
Types of Driving Records in Delaware
The Delaware DMV offers different types of records for different needs. It’s important to request the correct one.
- 3-Year Driving Record: A summary of your recent history, typically used for personal review or for obtaining auto insurance quotes.
- 5-Year Driving Record: A more detailed history that is often required for pre-employment screening.
- Certified Full Driving Record: This is your complete, official history. It is certified by the DMV and is the only version accepted for legal purposes, such as in a court of law.
How to Request Your Record: 3 Official Methods
You can obtain your driving record directly from the Delaware DMV using one of these three methods.
1. Requesting Online (Fastest Method)
- How: Visit the official Delaware MyDMV Portal and log in to your account.
- Fee: The fee is currently $25 for a certified record.
- Process: After paying the fee, you will be able to immediately download and print a PDF copy of your record.
2. Requesting In-Person
- How: Schedule an appointment and visit a Delaware DMV office.
- Fee: The fee is currently $25.
- Process: You will need to fill out an application form and provide a valid photo ID (such as your driver’s license). You will receive a printed copy of your record at the office.
3. Requesting by Mail
- How: Fill out the required application form and mail it to the DMV.
- Fee: Include a check or money order for $25 made payable to the “Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.”
- Address:
- Division of Motor Vehicles
- ATTN: Driver License Administration
- P.O. Box 698
- Dover, DE 19903
- Process: Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the DMV to mail the record back to you. Allow at least 10 business days for processing.
Disclaimer: Fees are subject to change. Always confirm the current amount on the official Delaware DMV website before submitting your request.
Understanding Your Delaware Driving Record
Your record contains four main types of information:
- Personal Information: Your full name, address, date of birth, and other identifying details. Ensure this is correct.
- License Status: The issue date, expiration date, and current status (e.g., valid, suspended, revoked) of your driver’s license, including any endorsements or restrictions.
- Violations and Points: A list of all traffic violations, such as speeding tickets or DUIs. Each violation carries a specific number of points that are assessed against your license. Accumulating too many points can lead to suspension.
- Accident Reports: Details of any reported accidents you have been involved in, including the date, location, and severity.
Next Steps: Correcting Errors or Reducing Points
After reviewing your record, you may need to take action.
- To Correct an Error: If you find information that you believe is incorrect, you must contact the DMV’s Driver License Administration in writing at the Dover mailing address above. Clearly state the error and provide any evidence you have to support your claim.
- To Reduce Your Point Total: Delaware offers a Defensive Driving Course program. Upon successful completion of a DMV-approved course, you can receive a 3-point credit on your driving record. This can help prevent a suspension and may also qualify you for an auto insurance discount.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do points stay on my Delaware driving record?
Points are “assessed” for a 24-month period for suspension calculation purposes. However, the violation itself remains a permanent part of your full driving history.
Can my employer check my driving record?
Yes, but only with your signed consent. Prospective employers will provide you with a disclosure form to sign before they can request a copy of your record.
Is a driving record from a third-party website official?
No. While some online services provide instant driving histories, only a record obtained directly from the Delaware DMV is considered official and certified for employment or legal use.
Conclusion
Your driving record is a crucial document that reflects your history as a driver. Knowing how to obtain, read, and manage it is a key part of maintaining your license and ensuring you receive fair insurance rates. By using the official DMV channels and proactively addressing any issues, you can stay in control of your driving history.
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