Top Check Your Driver's License Status

The Department of Motor Vehicles keeps a record on every licensed driver in the District of Columbia. It's a good idea for all drivers to know what is in their driving records. Just as your credit score has a direct impact on the interest rates you will be charged, so does what is contained in your driving record have an impact on the kind of insurance rates you'll pay.

For pre-employment screening purposes, a prospective employer might do a search of your driving record―particularly if driving is part the job and you will be operating a company vehicle.

If you have ever had a moving violation and paid the ticket, you might want to make sure that your driving record correctly reflects the facts.

Top How to Request Your Own Driving Record

You can request a copy of your own driving record for $7 for a 3 or 5 year record or $13 for a 10 year record from the DC DMV through the mail or in person at any DMV service location. For security reasons, the DMV does not provide driver's record information over the phone.

To request your own driving record in person, bring documentation of your name, date of birth, Social Security number, driver's license number, and a copy of your proof of identification. Make your check or money order payable to the DC Treasurer.

The fees for your driving record are based on the report requested. You can order a three-, five-, or 10-year certified copy of your driving record immediately if you order it in person. If your order by mail, you will receive a certified copy within 14 days.

If you need a copy of your driving record right away but can't get down to the DMV, a quick online search will provide you with many companies where you can order a copy online and have it in minutes.

To request a copy of your driving record by mail, send a letter to:

• Department of Motor Vehicles

• Attn: Driver's Records

• P.O. Box 90120

• Washington, DC 20090

Be sure to enclose copies of the same documentation listed above to request a copy in person.

Top How to Request Another's Driving Record

Under the Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), a federal law that limits the disclosure of personal information, the DMV will only release driver's records to the following people who request them:

• You, the driver, when you can show proof of your identity.

• Your representative (spouse, for example) along with written permission from you and a copy of your proof of identfication that has a discernable signature.

• Law enforcement representatives, with documentation of your involvement in an investigation.

• Government agencies, for investigations and security clearances.

• Attorneys.

• Insurance companies.

Those requesting copies of driving records must provide the client's name, date of birth, and driver's license or Social Security number.

The fees for driving records may be paid by cash, credit card, or check or money order payable to the DC Treasurer. The DC DMV does not accept American Express.

Our content is updated based on input from users like you. Help make it better!