Your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)—commonly called a driving record—is the official history of your life on the road. It details every citation, accident, suspension, and withdrawal attached to your name. Whether you are applying for a commercial driving job, shopping for lower insurance rates, or trying to reinstate a suspended license, knowing exactly what is on this document is the first step.
This guide explains the difference between certified and non-certified records, how to view your history for free, and the specific methods for obtaining an official copy from the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT).
Certified vs Non-Certified Iowa Driving Records
Before you request your record, you must determine which version you need. The Iowa DOT offers two distinct types:
- Non-Certified Record (Free): This is for personal use. It allows you to see your driving history, check for points, or verify a license status. It is not a valid legal document for court or employment verification.
- Certified Record ($5.50): This is the official document stamped by the Iowa DOT. You need this version for court appearances, insurance disputes, background checks, or employment requirements.
Option 1: How to Get Your Iowa Driving Record Online
The most efficient way to access your record is through the myMVD portal. This system allows you to view your personal history instantly or order a certified copy to be mailed/printed.
- Log In: Visit the official Iowa DOT myMVD website. You will need your Driver’s License Number, Date of Birth, and the last five digits of your Social Security Number.
- Select Your Service:
- Choose “View Certified Driving Record” to purchase an official copy. (Cost: $5.50 + $3.00 online processing fee).
- Choose “View Non-Certified Driving Record” to see your history immediately on the screen for free.
- Print or Save: If you are viewing the non-certified version, you can print the page directly for your personal files.
Option 2: How to Request an Iowa Driving Record by Mail
If you cannot access the online portal or prefer a paper trail, you can request a record via mail. This method takes significantly longer due to processing and shipping times.
- Form: Download and complete the Privacy Act Agreement for Request of Motor Vehicle Records (Form 431069).
- Payment: Include a check or money order for $5.50 payable to the “Treasurer, State of Iowa.”
- Mail To: Send the form and payment to the Office of Driver Services in Des Moines.
Note: If you have moved recently, ensure you have completed your Iowa DMV change of address update before mailing your request. If your address on file is outdated, your sensitive driving history could be mailed to the wrong location.
Option 3: How to Get an Iowa Driving Record In Person
You can obtain a certified record immediately by visiting a driver’s license issuance site.
- Appointments: While some county treasurer offices accept walk-ins, state-run stations (like those in Des Moines or Cedar Rapids) prioritize appointments. You should schedule an appointment with the Iowa DOT to ensure you are seen quickly.
- Bring ID: You must present your current driver’s license or a valid government ID. If you are also planning to upgrade your license to a Real ID gold star during this visit, bring your birth certificate and two proofs of residency as well.
How to Read and Understand Your Iowa Driving Record
Your Iowa driving record contains detailed data on:
- Moving Violations: Speeding, running red lights, or reckless driving.
- Accidents: Any reportable crash where you were the driver.
- Withdrawals: Suspensions, revocations, or bars.
- Sanctions: OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) offenses and related requirements.
Checking for Suspensions: If your record shows a status of “Suspended,” “Revoked,” or “Barred,” it will often list the specific “lift requirements” needed to clear it. Do not ignore these. You should immediately cross-reference these requirements with the steps in our guide to Iowa DOT reinstatement to begin the process of restoring your privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, minor moving violations and accidents remain on your record for 5 years. However, serious violations like OWIs (drunk driving) or habitual offender statuses can remain on your record for 12 years or longer.
No, not without their written consent. Under the Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act, driving records are confidential. You generally need a notarized release form from the individual to request their record, unless you fall into a specific exempted category (like law enforcement or insurance adjusters).
Yes. Viewing and printing your non-certified record through the myMVD portal costs $0. You are only charged if you request the certified legal version.
Typically, written warnings do not appear on your public driving record and do not affect your insurance rates. However, they may be visible to law enforcement officers during future traffic stops.
Conclusion
Your driving record is more than just a list of tickets; it is a financial and legal asset. By using the free myMVD tool to check your non-certified record regularly, you can catch errors early, track when old violations drop off, and ensure your insurance rates accurately reflect your history.
Add Comment