Across the country, each state has the power to create and maintain its own driving record system—and the great state of Texas is no exception. Specifically, the Texas Department of Public Safety (like many other state authorities across the United States) utilizes a point system to record traffic violations. Each license holder in Texas has their own driving record that tracks violations and points assigned for any offenses.

By having a better understanding of how Texas driving records and points work, drivers licensed in this state can have a better idea of what to expect if they ever commit an offense. Likewise, knowing the options for getting points removed from a Texas driving record can help drivers avoid higher insurance premiums and other consequences.

What is a Texas Driving Record?

A Texas driving record, also known as a motor vehicle record (MVR), is a comprehensive document that details a driver’s license status and driving history within the state of Texas. Maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), these records are essential for various purposes, from employment background checks to insurance assessments.

A typical driving record includes crucial information such as the current license status, a complete driving history, any recorded accidents, and convictions for traffic violations. By keeping track of these details, the Department of Public Safety ensures that all licensed drivers in Texas are held accountable for their actions on the road.

Types of Driving Records

In Texas, there are several types of driving records available to meet different needs:

  • Certified Driving Records: These are official documents certified by the Texas DPS. They are often required for legal purposes, employment verification, or insurance claims. Because they are certified, they carry a higher level of authenticity and are considered legally binding.
  • Non-Certified Driving Record: These motor vehicle records are not certified by the Texas DPS and are typically used for personal reference. While they contain the same information as certified records, they do not have the official certification stamp, making them unsuitable for formal purposes.
  • Complete Driving Record: As the name suggests, these records provide a complete driving history, including all accidents, traffic violations, and other relevant incidents. They offer a thorough overview of a driver’s behavior on the road over time and are often considered the only record type for a full account of a driver’s history.
  • Status Records: These driver records focus on the current status of a driver’s license. They indicate whether the license is active, suspended, revoked, or subject to any other administrative actions. This type of record is particularly useful for verifying the current standing of a driver’s license.

Obtaining Texas Driving Records

There are several convenient ways to obtain a Texas driving record:

  • Online: The Texas DPS website offers an easy and quick way to order your driving record online. This method is often the most convenient and fastest way to get the information you need.
  • By Mail: If you prefer, you can order your driving record by mail. The DPS provides a specific form that you need to fill out and send in with the required payment. This method may take a bit longer but is a reliable option.
  • In Person: For those who prefer face-to-face interactions, visiting a Texas DPS office in person is an option. You can request your driving record directly from the office, which can be helpful if you need immediate assistance or have questions.
  • Through a Third-Party Provider: Several companies, such as GoodHire, offer services to obtain driving records quickly and easily. These third-party providers can be a convenient option, especially if you need to obtain multiple records or require additional services.

It’s important to note that you can only obtain your own driving record, not someone else’s. Additionally, driving records are subject to the Public Information Act (PIA) and the Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), which regulate the disclosure of personal information contained in these records. This ensures that your personal information is protected while still allowing you access to your driving history.

How Does the Texas Point System Work?

The Texas driver record system is pretty straight-forward. Any moving violation for which you are cited and convicted is subject to points. This remains true regardless of whether the violation occurs in our out of state. Non-moving violations (such as parking tickets), on the other hand, will not result in points on your record. Still, non-moving violations can still come with hefty fines, so it’s best to avoid them.

Some of the most common examples of traffic violations that can lead to points on your license in Texas include:

  • Speeding
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Illegal U-turns
  • Driving without insurance
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failure to yield

The number of points that will be assigned to your license will depend on the violation. Most moving violations (both in and out of state) result in two points, though violations that result in an accident can cost you up to three points on your license. All points stay on your Texas driving record for three years from the conviction date.

Drivers can check for points on their Texas driving records any time by visiting the Department of Public Safety Licensee Driver Records website. This is also a great place to check your driver license status and request a copy of your record by mail.

“Fun” Fact: Texas Driver Responsibility Program

Up until 2019, Texas also used a surcharge system. Known as the Driver Responsibility Program (DRP), this system assessed fines to drivers who accumulated excessive points on their records. Those with six or more points on their records, for example, could expect an annual $100 fine until the points were dropped. If a driver accumulated seven or more points on his or her record within 24 months’ time, the license could even be suspended.

In late 2019, Texas’ 86th Legislature voted to repeal this program. Those with outstanding fines were still required to pay them, but license suspensions under the program were waived and no additional DRP fines have been issued.

How to Reduce Points on Your Texas Driving Record

If you have points on your Texas driving record, they’ll automatically “fall off” your record three years after the date of your conviction. Keep in mind that this may not be the same as the date of the violation, particularly if you took the matter to court and lost. In this case, the conviction date will be considered the day you appeared in court.

If you have pending charges for moving violations, you may be able to avoid additional points on your record by pleading not guilty to the charges and requesting a court hearing. Disputing a traffic charge can be difficult, however, so you may want to consult with an attorney to help your case.

If all else fails, you can always explore the possibility of having points removed from your record by completing a safe driving course or similar class. In some cases, completing a state-approved defensive driving course may not only remove the points from a driver’s license, but dismiss the charge altogether.

The most important thing here is to ensure that the class you enroll in is approved in your state. The best way to do this is to reach out to the court or jurisdiction where your violation was charged. Typically, you can enroll in these classes either online or in-person to suit your needs.

Drivers are expected to pay for the costs of their own classes, although the money saved in insurance premiums and other fees can make it more than worth the expense. Plus, drivers will walk away with some new tips and strategies for safe driving that could help them avoid future violations and/or accidents.

Avoid Texas Driver’s License Points with Safe Driving

Nobody is perfect—and making a mistake behind the wheel doesn’t have to ruin your driving record. By having a better understanding of how the Texas point system works and how to get points dropped from drivers license, you can keep your driving record clear. This, in turn, can keep you safe on the road and keep your insurance premiums down!