To get your California DMV driving records, visit the official California DMV website, mail a request to DMV headquarters, or go in person to a local DMV office. You can choose official certified records for legal purposes or unofficial records for personal use. Online requests need personal info and payment. In-person or mail requests require Form INF 1125, $5 fee, and specifying certified record need. The records include personal details, violations, accidents, and CDL information. Understanding the points system, correcting errors, and handling license suspension are crucial aspects. Knowing how to obtain your records ensures you stay informed and compliant.
Requesting Your California Driving Record
To obtain your California driving record, you can easily request it online, by mail, or in person at the DMV. When requesting your driving record online, you must visit the official California DMV website and follow the instructions provided. This method offers convenience and quick access to your information. If you prefer traditional mail, you can send a request to the DMV headquarters along with any necessary documents or fees. For those who like a face-to-face interaction, visiting your local DMV office allows you to request your driving record in person.
It's important to note that there are two types of California driving records available: unofficial records for personal use and official certified records for legal purposes. The official certified driving record is an essential document that can be used in legal proceedings. This record contains detailed information such as personal details, license status, violations, accidents, DUI/DWI convictions, points, suspensions, and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) information. Whether for personal reference or legal matters, having access to your driving record is essential for various purposes.
Types of California Driving Records
Differentiate between two main types of California driving records to understand their distinct purposes and information provided. Official records are essential for legal use and must be obtained in person or by mail, certified by the DMV. On the other hand, unofficial records are available online for personal reference but do not hold the same legal weight.
- Certified Records: These are considered legal documents and are often required for court proceedings, providing an official and verified account of your driving history.
- Summary Record: This type of record gives a brief overview of your driving history, useful for quick reference or general information.
- Proof of Driving History: This record serves as evidence of your driving experience and can be important for various purposes like obtaining insurance or employment.
- Personal Reference: Unofficial records are handy for personal use, allowing you to review your driving history without the need for DMV certification.
How to Order Online

When ordering your California DMV driving records online, you will follow a straightforward process outlined on the DMV website. To complete the online order, you will need to have specific information readily available, such as your driver's license number and payment details. This method offers a quick and efficient way to access your driving record information at your convenience.
Online Ordering Process
When you log in to the California DMV website as a registered user, you can easily order your driving records online with just a few clicks. Here's how to proceed:
- Select the type of driving records you need (uncertified for personal reference or official version).
- Provide your personal information and payment details securely on the website.
- Double-check your order to guarantee accuracy before finalizing the transaction.
- Receive your driving records electronically for instant access or opt for certified copies via mail or in-person.
Online ordering is a convenient and efficient way to obtain your California DMV driving records, offering flexibility in choosing between official and unofficial versions based on your needs.
Required Information for Ordering
To successfully order your California DMV driving record online, make sure you have your personal information and driver's license number readily available for the process. When checking out, you may need to provide your address for the delivery of the copy. Keep in mind that there might be a fee associated with ordering an official certified record. If you opt for a certified copy and choose to mail the request, you may have to fill out form INF 1125. This form, along with a $5 fee, should be sent to the DMV Headquarters. By ensuring you have all the necessary details and meeting any fee requirements, you can efficiently obtain your California driving record online.
How to Order In Person
To order your California DMV driving records in person, simply visit a local DMV office during their business hours. Here's how you can do that effectively:
- Fill out Form INF 1125 to request a certified copy of your driving record.
- Submit the completed form along with the $5 fee at the DMV office.
- Specify on the form that you need a certified driver record for legal purposes.
- If you want to expedite the process, bring the completed form directly to your local DMV office for quicker processing.
How to Order By Mail

To order your California DMV driving records by mail, you will need to fill out Form INF 1125 and include a $5 processing fee. Make sure to clearly indicate on the form that you are requesting a certified driver record. Once the form and payment are ready, mail them to DMV Headquarters for processing.
Mail Request Form
When ordering your California DMV driving records by mail, you will need to fill out Form INF 1125 and include a $5 fee for processing. Make sure to clearly write 'requesting a certified driver record' on the Form INF 1125 for accurate processing. Here are some key steps to follow:
- Complete Form INF 1125 accurately.
- Include a $5 fee with the form.
- Clearly state 'requesting a certified driver record'.
- Mail the form and payment to the DMV Headquarters address provided.
Required Documentation
Make sure you have completed DMV Form INF 1125 accurately before mailing it along with a $5 processing fee to request your certified California driving record. When submitting the form by mail, clearly indicate that you are seeking a certified copy of your driving record for accuracy. Be patient, as it may take a few weeks for the processing and delivery of your driving record through mail. To expedite the process, consider bringing the completed form to your local DMV office for quicker service. By following these steps diligently, you can guarantee a smooth and efficient process in obtaining your California driving record via mail.
Mailing Address
When ordering your California DMV driving records by mail, make sure to complete Form INF 1125 accurately and include a $5 processing fee before sending it to DMV Headquarters. Remember to clearly indicate that you are requesting a certified driver record. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Complete Form INF 1125 accurately.
- Include a $5 processing fee.
- Clearly write 'requesting a certified driver record' on the form.
- Allow a few weeks for processing and delivery of your certified driving record.
Fees for Records

To obtain your California DMV driving records, you will be charged a fee of $2 when requesting online, with an additional 1.95% processing fee for credit/debit card transactions. If you opt to pay using your bank account, there are no extra fees associated. For those preferring to make mail requests for their driving records, a $5 fee is required. Similarly, in-person requests at DMV offices also involve a $5 fee. It's important to note that these fees are standard for accessing your driving records in California, and they help cover the administrative costs associated with providing this service to you. Whether you choose the convenience of online requests or prefer the traditional mail or in-person methods, the fees remain consistent across the various options. By understanding the fee structure for obtaining your driving records, you can make an informed decision on the most suitable method for accessing this essential information.
Processing Times
The processing times for California DMV driving records vary depending on the method of request and the type of record you are seeking. If you require immediate access to your driving record, online requests are your best option. However, if you choose to request your driving record via mail, be prepared to wait up to 10 business days before receiving it. It's important to take into account these processing times when planning to access your California DMV driving records promptly.
- Online requests typically offer immediate access to driving records.
- Mailed requests for driving records may take up to 10 business days.
- The method of request chosen influences the processing time.
- Take into account the type of record you need when planning for processing times.
Interpreting Your Record

Upon reviewing your California DMV driving record, you will find a detailed overview of your personal information, license status, violations, accidents, and points. This information is essential as it provides a thorough summary of your driving history. Employers often request access to your driving record to evaluate your driving behavior and suitability for specific job roles. Insurance companies utilize this record to determine the premiums you will pay based on your past driving incidents. Additionally, law enforcement agencies rely on your driving record to investigate accidents, violations, and convictions accurately.
Understanding Points System
Understanding how the points system works in California is essential for monitoring your driving record and avoiding potential penalties. The points system employed by the California DMV assigns points for various driving infractions and violations such as speeding, reckless driving, and running red lights. To grasp the points system better, consider the following:
- Points accumulation can lead to license suspension or revocation.
- Different offenses carry different point values.
- Points remain on your driving record for a specific duration, usually between 3 to 7 years.
- Monitoring your record regularly allows you to take corrective actions to prevent further penalties.
Correcting Errors

Identifying and rectifying errors promptly on your California DMV driving record is essential for maintaining accurate and up-to-date information. If you notice any inaccuracies, you can correct them by reporting the errors using specific forms provided by the California DMV. These forms include the Abstract/Document Error Form or any court correspondence related to the errors in your driving record. To initiate the corrections process, contact the California DMV at 1-800-777-0133 for assistance. It is vital to address and rectify any incorrect information on your driving record promptly to avoid potential negative consequences in the future. By following the correct procedures and submitting the necessary documentation, you can make sure that your California DMV driving record reflects the most accurate information. Stay proactive in maintaining the correctness of your driving record to prevent any issues down the line.
License Suspension/Revocation
If you've encountered issues such as DUI convictions or excessive points on your driving record, your California driver's license may face suspension or revocation by the DMV. Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding license suspension and revocation:
- License suspension is a temporary withdrawal of driving privileges by the DMV.
- Reasons for suspension can include DUI convictions, having excessive points on your record, or failing to pay fines.
- License revocation is a more severe penalty that involves the termination of your driver's license.
- Revocation can be either permanent or for a specified period depending on the severity of the violation.
To reinstate a suspended or revoked license, you will typically need to fulfill specific requirements set by the DMV. Understanding the implications of license suspension and revocation is important for maintaining a clean driving record in California and avoiding further traffic violations.
Removing Points

If you've accumulated points on your driving record in California, it's essential to understand how they can impact your driving privileges. Points can lead to increased insurance rates and even license suspension if they accumulate. Knowing the methods to remove points, such as attending traffic school or contesting citations successfully, can help you maintain a clean driving record and avoid potential consequences.
Points Removal Process
When contemplating removing points from your California DMV driving record, attending a court-approved traffic school is a beneficial option. By completing a traffic school course, you can remove one point from your record and prevent insurance rate increases. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Attending traffic school can help keep your driving record clean.
- Not all violations are eligible for point removal through traffic school, so verify eligibility with the court.
- Points typically remain on your record for 3 years unless removed through traffic school.
- Successfully completing traffic school can also prevent license suspension.
Take into account these factors when deciding whether attending traffic school is the right choice for you.
Eligibility Criteria
To determine your eligibility for removing points from your California DMV driving record, completing a licensed traffic school program approved by the California DMV is necessary. Points accumulated from traffic violations can be eliminated by successfully finishing traffic school once every 18 months, helping prevent license suspension. While completing traffic school can remove one violation point from your record, the violation will still be visible for insurance purposes. Eligibility for point reduction depends on the type of violation and your driving history. Removing points through traffic school is beneficial as it can enhance your driving record and potentially lead to lower insurance premiums. Make sure to check with the California DMV to confirm your eligibility before enrolling in a traffic school program.
Required Documentation
For the process of removing points from your California driving record, you will need to provide specific documentation as required by the DMV. To successfully navigate this process, make sure you have the following documentation ready:
- Proof of completion of a licensed traffic school program.
- Details of the traffic school course attended, including the date and duration.
- Any certificates or official documents provided by the traffic school upon completion.
- Your driving record from the DMV showing the points you are seeking to have removed.
Having these documents in order will help you efficiently demonstrate your compliance with the DMV's requirements for point reduction on your driving record in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get California Driving Record?
To get your California driving record, you can request it online through the DMV website. Make sure to meet legal requirements for accessing this information. Online options provide easy access to your driving history. Be cautious about using third-party services to obtain your records. Understand the types of records available and be aware of any privacy concerns. Your driving record can impact insurance rates, so it's important to keep it up to date.
Are California DMV Records Public?
Are California DMV records public? No, they are considered confidential to protect your privacy. Unauthorized access can lead to legal consequences due to the Drivers Privacy Protection Act and California Vehicle Code. Access is restricted to authorized individuals for security. Protecting your data is vital to prevent identity theft risks. Transparency laws help uphold government accountability. Safeguarding your information online is key to maintaining privacy and security.
How Much Is a Driving Record in California?
To get your driving record in California, the cost is $2 for online requests and $5 for mail-in requests. You can pay using a credit/debit card with a 1.95% processing fee or a bank account with no additional charges. Certified copies cost $5. Delivery time varies depending on the method chosen. Online requests are convenient and quick, whereas in-person requests may take longer. Third-party services can help access your driving history.
Can I Get a Copy of My CA Drivers License Online?
You can easily access a copy of your California driver's license online. The process involves submitting a request for your driving records through a secure online platform. Once you verify your identity, you'll be able to view and download digital copies of your driving history. While it's convenient and quick, make sure you prioritize your privacy by using secure payment methods. Processing times may vary, so plan accordingly.


