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Driving Records in Iowa

Online Driving Records Vs. Certified Driving Records
Your driving record, also known as a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), reflects what the state has on file for your driving history. You can easily order one online through independent vendors. Or you can request a certified copy of a driving record by mail through the Iowa Department of Transportation's Office of Driver Services.
Order Your Own Driver Abstract Through The Iowa DOT
To order a copy of your own driving record, complete a Privacy Act Agreement for Request of Motor Vehicle Records form and mail it with a copy of your drivers license (or ID card) and check for proper payment to:
- Office of Driver Services
- Iowa Department of Transportation
- P.O. Box 9204
- Des Moines, IA 50306-9204
Keep in mind that if you want info on traffic tickets or previous license applications (license history), these documents will cost a little more per copy.
Order The Driving Record Of Another Individual Through The Iowa DOT
To order the driver license record of someone other than yourself, complete the same Privacy Act form and mail your request and check to the address above.
Reasons To Order A Driver Record
You might need to check your drivers license status to see if you have a suspended license. Or you might have an employer or auto insurance company looking to review your driving history. For these purposes, a driving record comes in handy. Most commonly, motorists run a driving record to:
- Check drivers license status and license suspension
- Check drivers license points and violation codes
- Check traffic tickets, violations and fines
- Check auto accidents
- Check driver license classification and endorsements
How Driving History Affects Auto Insurance Rates
Car insurance companies factor in driving history when determining your car insurance premium. If your driving record reflects any traffic tickets, auto accidents, DUI or DWI convictions, an insurance agent could consider you a high-risk driver. The higher the risk, the higher the rate. To learn more and to find out how to lower car insurance rates, check out our Insurance Center article titled How Driving Record Points Affect Auto Insurance Rates.
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