Top Driver's Privacy Protection Act

By now, most of us are aware of the possible abuses of our personal information. Once information such as a Social Security number and address falls into the wrong hands there's no telling where the damage may stop.It seems as if the possibility of identify theft, credit card fraud, and other abuses of personal information increases every day.

As a way to help protect drivers from the release of sensitive data, the Driver's Privacy Protection Act was enacted. This act limits the occasions in which personal information included in your driver's license, motor vehicle registration, and other department records may be given out.

The act does not protect other sorts of information, such as accident and driving violation records.

Top Personal Information

The following types of personal information are protected:

• Phone numbers

• Social Security number

• Driver's license number

• Medical or disability information

• Photographs

• Computer images

However, this sort of information may be released to individuals― including law enforcement officials, insurance company representatives, attorneys, court officials, private investigators, and some employers―who have a valid reason for requesting it.

Top Check Your Driver's License Status

Most of us know that it's a good idea to periodically obtain a copy of your credit report just to make sure the information contained is accurate. But, most people probably don't realize that it's also a good idea to occasionally get a copy of their driving record.

Why do this?

Well, mistakes happen. An errant keystroke, for example, could add points to your driving record that shouldn't be there. So, by checking your report, you can make sure that the information is accurate.

It doesn't cost much, and you might be saving yourself some aggravation later. You certainly don't want possible employers, insurance companies, government agencies, or others to have an incorrect, damaging report about your driving record and personal information.

Top How to Obtain a Driving Record

To obtain a driving record, you'll have to fill out a form (surprise). The forms are available online, and also at exam stations. Choose the form that applies to your situation. There are forms for individuals, insurance agencies, or employers, as well as state and local governments.

Once the form is completed, it must be notarized.

It costs $5 to obtain a driving record, in addition to the 4% state sales tax, and any local taxes. Checks should be made out to the Department of Public Safety. Out-of-state requests don't have to include a tax. Also, state and local governments do not have to pay for their requests.

Send the forms and payment to:

• The Department of Public Safety

• Driver Licensing

• 118 West Capitol Ave.

• Pierre, SD 57501

There are five exam stations, however, where you may receive a copy of your driving record in person:

• 3716 South Westport Ave.

• Sioux Falls, SD

• 910 4th St.

• Brookings, SD

• 2729 West Highway 12

• Aberdeen, SD

• 1300 E. Catron Blvd.

• Rapid City, SD

• 1900 W. Kemp Ave.

• Watertown, SD

Of course, you'll have to bring along proper identification. You may pay the $4 driving record fee with a check or by cash. However, if you're paying by cash, you'll need to have the exact amount.

Driving records are also available for businesses at these locations, but no more than five will be given out at one time.

Third-party businesses, such as the one at the top of this page, also offer services where you can readily order a copy of your driving record.

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