How to Check Your DMV Points

By: Kathy Teel June 10, 2012
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The point system for drivers is one way that the state, as well as insurance companies, can keep tabs on how good a driver you are.

Not all states use a point system, but those that do assign points to your driver's license for speeding tickets and other traffic tickets. You know, the kinds of things you could have done differently.

When points accumulate on your driving history report, especially a lot of points in a short period of time, the state starts to reevaluate your driving privileges (for example, if you get too many points, the DMV might suspend your license). Too, insurance companies consider hiking your rates.

That’s why it’s important to check your driver’s license points and know just how many you have, and find out if your state approves ways to reduce driving record points.

Checking Your Driving Record Points

Most states have a similar process for checking your DMV points.

Usually, the first step is to go to the DMV website. Once there, you can usually find a link saying something like "driver’s license status" or "driver’s license check."

When you click the link for checking your driver’s license points, you'll probably need to provide information such as your:

  • Name
  • Birthday
  • Social Security number
  • Driver’s license number

Be aware that in some states, you cannot check your driver’s license points online. When you go to the DMV website, it will give you either a telephone number to call or an address to write to in order to obtain your own information. Some states do require a written request, and some provide forms.

Third-Party Driving Record Vendors

If you live in a state that does not make it convenient for you to obtain your own driving records, you can engage the services of third party vendors.

Your driving record is free to you, if you put in the work to obtain it, but if you are short on time or simply don’t want the hassle of submitting a written request or talking on the phone with the motor vehicle department, a third-party company can take your information, submit the request for you, and turn your driver’s license points record over to you when they get it.

A third-party service makes it easy to obtain your own driving record or that of another driver. For more on checking your driver's license status and points, refer to our page on driving records.

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