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Driving Records in Washington DC

Online Driving Records Vs. Certified Driving Records
There are a few ways to obtain your Washington DC driving record, also known as a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). You can easily obtain this public record online through independent vendors if you need to quickly access your driving history. You can also request a certified driving record in person or by mail through the District of Columbia DMV.
Order Your Own Driver Abstract Through The DC DMV
To order your own driving record in person, you must visit a DC DMV office with the proper fees and identification. Acceptable ID includes:
- DC driver's license, learner's permit or ID card that hasn't been expired more than five years
- Out-of-state driver's license, learner's permit or ID card that hasn't been expired more than five years
- U.S. passport that hasn't been expired more than a year
- Current U.S. military or military dependent ID card
- Current ID card issued by a US federal, state or territory government agency (with DOB)
- Current INS documents
- Foreign passport with attached non-immigrant visa form I-94 with certain certifications
If you do not have one of the above contact the DC DMV for alternate forms of acceptable ID.
To order a driving record by mail, send a letter with your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, driver's license number, photocopy of your ID and fees to:
- DC Department of Motor Vehicles
- Attention: Driver Records
- PO Box 90120
- Washington, DC 20090
Order The Driving Record Of Another Individual Through The DC DMV
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} with a discernable signature
- Law enforcement representatives, with documentation of your involvement in an investigation
- Government agencies, for investigations and security clearances
- 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.
Reasons To Order A Driver Record
Whether your employer or an auto insurance company wants to review your driving history, or you want to check the status of your drivers license (revoked or suspended license, etc.), a driving record offers valuable information. 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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