Follow These Simple Steps to Access This Valuable Information
Being aware of what is on your driving record has more benefits than you might think. Nowadays, employers can check your DMV records as part of a background check for a job. You might be more likely to come across this if you are applying for jobs that require driving, but regardless of what line of work you are in, it never hurts to know what personal information is available to the public. Plus, if you have a good driving record, you can use this to your advantage and be an advocate for yourself when it comes to negotiating insurance rates.
In California, you can request your vehicle or driver records from the Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV. The DMV is responsible for maintaining public records of statistical information, including vehicle registration (VR), driver’s licenses (DLs), occupational licenses (OLs), and more. You will have to pay a small fee, usually $5, to request your driving record, but you cannot put a price on self-awareness.
When requesting any kind of information from the DMC, you have three options: online, by mail, and in person. The DMV website will give you access to an online form where you can submit your request. To fill out this form, you will need to know the record number and title, the number of requests you want, the business name (if applicable), a telephone number, contact name, and a street address. If you prefer to communicate by mail, you can fill out a request asking for your records and mail it to the following address:
DMV Information Release Unit
MS G199
PO Box 944247
Sacramento, CA 94244-2470
Although the exact form and mailing address varies from state to state, the general process is the same. If you live outside of California, the DMV in your state will have a similar release unit that can grant you access to your records. When you mail in your request, you can include the fee as well. If you are requesting the records on behalf of someone else, that will require a different form.
Alternatively, you can visit your local DMV, where you will be asked to fill out the same form and pay a fee. If you choose this option, the request will be processed at your visit and you will be able to access the records at that time, as long as the DMV headquarters approves the request. Some people prefer this option because it gives them the access they need right when they need it.
Can a Lawyer Help Clear Your Driving Record?
According to the law of the State of California, traffic citations stay on your record for three years and three months. More serious violations, like DUIs, reckless driving, and hit and runs, can stay on your record for up to ten years. Not only that, but these types of violations can raise your insurance costs by up to 60%. If you access your driving record and do not like what you find, there is still hope to get that clean driving record you want.
At The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch, we believe in second chances, and that is why we can help advocate on your behalf as your trusted traffic attorney with a goal to remove the violation. There are some cases when we can file a motion to clear the conviction. The possibilities will vary depending on the details of your driving offenses, but we will put in the work necessary to get you the best result possible.
To request a free consultation with a traffic attorney at The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch, give us a call at (559) 484-2112 or contact us online.