Order a Copy of Your Driving Record

Your schedule is busy…work, family, household chores…who has time to worry about what’s on their driving record? Doesn’t the state’s department of motor vehicles take care of that kind of information? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. What you’re probably blissfully unaware of is that your driving record contains errors – errors that can cost you hundreds if not thousands each year.

According to the Insurance Research Council, 22% contain errors whether from a clerical mistake where someone has input the wrong information or a traffic violation is dismissed but still shows up on a driving record. With this kind of information on your driving record, your insurance rates will be higher!

Currently, there are only 14 states that input your information electronically into computer systems – the rest are still using the archaic method of pen and paper. Errors are bound to happen!

Errors on driving records have also been known to cost people their jobs. If you use the company car and travel a lot, your employer will want to request a copy of your driving record. Your employer holds you responsible for knowing what’s on your driving record and if they find something out before you inform them you can get fired! And if you’re looking for a new job they may not want to hire you based on your driving record.

There have also been cases where a mistake on a driving record has caused a person to lose their insurance. Many people pay their traffic tickets and even enroll in driving school to lower points on their driver’s license however this information may never make it to your driving record. As a result your insurance carrier may drop you.

Another reason to obtain your driving record is if you have recently received a speeding ticket. With a copy of your good driving record, the judge will be much more likely to be lenient. The court may already have a copy of your driving record, but when you bring your own the judge will take a seriously look at your good driving history.

So before you apply for insurance or a job, make sure you request a copy of your driving record from your state’s department of motor vehicles. In some cases, you can request your copy online.