Whether you are preparing for a new job, checking for insurance-impacting points, or simply verifying your license status, obtaining your Minnesota driving record is a straightforward process. In Minnesota, the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division manages these records, officially known as Motor Vehicle Reports (MVR).
This guide outlines the specific methods available to Minnesota drivers to look up their records, the costs involved, and the differences between certified and non-certified copies.
Choosing the Right Type of Driving Record
Before you request your record, it is important to understand which version you need. Minnesota offers two primary types of driving records, each serving a different purpose.
Non-Certified Record ($9): This is a standard 5-year history that includes your convictions and accidents. It is typically sufficient for personal review or for most employers who just need to verify your eligibility.
Certified Record ($10): This version includes an official seal from the DVS. You will likely need this for legal proceedings, out-of-state license transfers, or specific government security clearances.
Note: If you are requesting a record for someone else, the fee for a certified copy increases slightly to $10.50, and you must meet specific legal requirements under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA).
How to Request Your Minnesota Driving Record
Minnesota provides three ways to access your records: online, by mail, or in person. Each method has a different turnaround time and requirement.
Method 1: Get Your Minnesota Driving Record Online (MyDVS)
The most efficient way to get your record is through the official MyDVS portal.
- Process: You must first create a MyDVS account. This requires a “Registration Letter” which you can request online; the DVS will mail this letter to the address on your current license to verify your identity.
- Access: Once your account is set up, you can log in and purchase your record immediately.
- Requirement: You will need your Minnesota driver’s license number and your Social Security number.
Method 2:How to Request a Minnesota Driving Record by Mail
If you prefer not to use the online portal, or if you need a certified copy and cannot visit an office, you can apply by mail.
- Form: Complete the Record Request Form (PS2502).
- Payment: Include a check or money order payable to “DVS.”
- Identification: You must include a photocopy of your driver’s license or have your signature notarized on the form.
- Mailing Address: Driver and Vehicle Services445 Minnesota Street, Suite 161St. Paul, MN 55101-5161
Method 3:Get a Minnesota Driving Record at a DVS Office
You can visit any DVS office or Deputy Registrar location to request your record. If you choose this route, it is often helpful to schedule a Minnesota DMV appointment in advance to minimize wait times. While many offices can provide non-certified records on the spot, some may require you to wait for a certified copy to be mailed from the central office in St. Paul.
| Method | Best For | Turnaround Time |
| Online | Personal review & speed | Immediate (after account setup) |
| In-Person | Immediate physical copy | Same-day (Non-certified) |
| Certified copies (no travel) | 7–10 business days |
What Information is Included in Your Record?
Your Minnesota driving record is a comprehensive history of your activity behind the wheel. It is not just a list of tickets; it is a legal document that insurance companies and employers use to assess risk.
- Personal Details: Name, address, date of birth, and license status (Valid, Suspended, Revoked, or Cancelled). If you have recently moved, ensure your record is accurate by completing a Minnesota change of address with the DVS.
- Convictions: Moving violations, speeding tickets, and DUI/DWI offenses.
- Accidents: Any reportable traffic accidents you were involved in within the state.
- Withdrawals: Information regarding license suspensions or reinstatements. If your license is currently inactive, you may need to follow specific steps for Minnesota driving license reinstatement before your record shows a “Valid” status.
If you find an error on your record, such as a ticket that should have been cleared or an incorrect accident report, you should contact the DVS Driver Evaluation unit immediately to initiate a correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, no. Due to the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), driving records are private. You can only request someone else’s record if you have their written consent or if you fall under a specific legal exception (e.g., insurance companies, law enforcement, or employers for CDL holders).
Unlike some states, Minnesota does not use a traditional “point system” where a specific number of points leads to a suspension. Instead, the DVS monitors the number and severity of violations within a specific timeframe. For example, four “incidental” violations in 12 months can trigger a suspension.
Most traffic convictions stay on your public driving record for five years. However, more serious offenses like DWIs or alcohol-related revocations can remain on your record for ten years or even permanently, depending on the severity.
Conclusion
Monitoring your Minnesota driving record is a proactive way to manage your driving privileges and ensure your insurance rates remain fair. Whether you choose the speed of the MyDVS online portal or the formality of a mailed certified copy, the process is designed to be accessible for all residents. If you are planning a career move or simply want peace of mind, taking ten minutes to check your status today can prevent surprises on the road tomorrow.
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