How to Request California Driving Records?

A young driver behind the wheel

Your driving records, or DMV records, are the state’s collection of your driving history. Your driving history can include anything from a vehicle’s registration and license status to point violations like unpaid tickets. Getting your CA driver’s records can be done online, in person, and by mail.

This short article shares how you can request your driving records in California.

Getting Your California Driving Record

There are two types of driving records:

  • Unofficial
  • Official

Official California driving records are obtained at a local CA DMV or by mail. You may also request your records through online services – this shows violations and other items on your records but cannot be used with official DMV business.

Driver Record Request Online

To get DMV record online:

  1. Visit the Online Services Portal
  2. Find the driver records application
  3. Complete the on-screen prompts
  4. Pay the $2 online fee
  5. Receive and print your unofficial record

Driver Record Request In-Person

To get a driving record at a DMV:

  1. Visit your local DMV
  2. Complete the Request for Your Own Driver License Information Record (INF 1125)
  3. Show your DL/ID
  4. Pay the $5 fee

Driver Record Request by Mail

To get a copy of your driving record by mail:

  1. Fill out the Request for Your Own Driver License Information Record (INF 1125)
    1. Include “Certified Driver Record” if requesting an official document
  2. Include the written request with your information
    1. Name
    2. DOB
    3. SSN
    4. DL#
    5. Signature
  3. Include a check for $5

Send your information to:

Department of Motor Vehicles

Information Release Unit G199

PO BOX 944247

Sacramento, California 94244

Your driving record may get pulled by employers, attorneys, and insurance companies, too.

CA Driving Record Request FAQs

Got questions about your Ca driving record? Here are a few answers:

What is the cost of the driver’s record?

Requesting your driving record online is $2.00 because it’s an unofficial copy. Requesting the documents in-person or by mail is $5.00 because they are official forms.

What’s included in the vehicle record?

The vehicle (vessel) record includes items like:

  • Registered owners
  • Vehicle Description
  • Registration Status

However, it doesn’t show the vehicle ownership history.

How can I correct the information on the driving record?

If the information on your driving record is incorrect, you can file a Report Of Incorrect Record Form (DL207) or Report Of Incorrect Driver Record Traffic Collision Form (DL207A). These items update personal and violations-based items.

Is there anyone I can call for help with the online service?

The CA DMV suggests calling 1-877-563-5213 if you have issues with the online services. Hours you can contact them are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. And Wednesday, 9 AM to 5 PM PST.

Can I print my California DMV record online?

Yes. You will create an account and complete the online process. At its end, you can print your driving record but do note that this is an unofficial document.

Conclusion

The California Department of Motor Vehicles makes it easy to get a copy of your driving record online. You will need to create an account and complete the online process, after which you can print or view your record. If there are any mistakes on your driving record, you can file a Report Of Incorrect Record Form (DL207) or Report Of Incorrect Driver Record Traffic Abstract (DL 208) to dispute it.

You can also call the DMV for an appointment and visit one of their regional offices during business hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM; Wednesday, 9 AM to 5 PM PST. With these options available, you’ll have a copy of your driving record in no time!