What a North Carolina driving record shows and where to request it

Your North Carolina driving record is a document maintained by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) that lists your driving history within the state. It includes traffic violations, at-fault accidents, license suspensions or revocations, points assessed against your license, and any convictions related to moving violations. Insurance companies, employers, courts, and licensing agencies request these records to verify your driving behavior.

You can request your record in person at an NCDMV office, by mail, online through the NCDMV website, or by phone. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the record and whether you want an official certified copy or an unofficial version for your own records.

North Carolina offers two types of records: a three-year record showing violations and accidents from the past three years, and a complete record showing your full driving history. Most requests are for the three-year version, which is what insurance companies and employers typically ask for.

Key Takeaways

  • North Carolina maintains two versions of your driving record: a three-year history and a complete history, and you must specify which one you need when you request it.
  • You can request your record online through the NCDMV website, by phone, by mail, or in person at any NCDMV office, and each method has different processing times.
  • A certified copy costs more than an unofficial copy but is required by courts, employers, and insurance companies in most cases.
  • Your record includes traffic violations, at-fault accidents, license points, and any suspensions or revocations, but does not include parking tickets or violations in other states.

Requesting your record online

The NCDMV website allows you to order a certified or unofficial copy of your three-year driving record without visiting an office. Go to the NCDMV website, select "Order Your Driving Record," and follow the prompts. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.

Online orders are processed within one to two business days. The NCDMV will mail the record to the address on file with your license, or you can arrange for it to be sent to a different address. If you need the record faster, this method is slower than requesting it in person but faster than mailing a request.

You must pay a fee for an online order. Certified copies cost more than unofficial copies. If you are unsure which type you need, contact the organization requesting the record — they will tell you whether a certified copy is required.

Requesting your record by phone

You can call the NCDMV to request your driving record. The phone number is available on the NCDMV website. When you call, have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. The staff member will ask which type of record you need (three-year or complete) and whether you want a certified or unofficial copy.

Phone requests are mailed to you within three to five business days. You will be asked to provide a mailing address and payment information over the phone. This method is convenient if you cannot visit an office or use the website, but it takes longer than requesting in person.

Requesting your record in person

Visit any NCDMV office and request your driving record at the counter. Bring your driver's license or another form of identification. Tell the staff member whether you need a three-year or complete record and whether you need a certified or unofficial copy. You will pay the fee and receive your record on the same day, usually within 15 to 30 minutes.

In-person requests are the fastest option if you need your record when ready. NCDMV offices are located throughout North Carolina. You can find the office nearest you on the NCDMV website. Office hours vary by location, so check before you go.

Requesting your record by mail

Complete the NCDMV's driving record request form, which is available on the NCDMV website. Print the form, fill it out with your driver's license number, date of birth, and the type of record you need. Include payment by check or money order. Mail the form to the address listed on the form.

Mail requests take seven to ten business days to process, not counting mail delivery time. This is the slowest method but works if you do not have access to the internet, a phone, or an NCDMV office. Keep a copy of the form and your payment receipt for your records.

Understanding what appears on your record

Your North Carolina driving record shows traffic violations you received while driving in North Carolina, including speeding, reckless driving, and failure to stop at a red light. It also shows at-fault accidents, points added to your license for violations, and any license suspensions or revocations. If you were convicted of a moving violation in court, that conviction appears on your record.

Your record does not include parking tickets, violations from other states, or accidents where you were not at fault. Points remain on your record for three years from the date of the violation, though some violations stay longer. A license suspension or revocation appears on your record for as long as it is in effect, plus additional time depending on the reason for the suspension.

If you believe information on your record is incorrect, contact the NCDMV to dispute it. You may need to provide documentation, such as a court order showing that a conviction was dismissed or a police report showing you were not at fault in an accident.

Fees and payment methods

The NCDMV charges different fees depending on the type of record and whether you want a certified or unofficial copy. Certified copies cost more because they include an official seal and signature and are accepted by courts and government agencies. Unofficial copies cost less and are suitable for your personal records or informal requests.

Payment methods vary by how you request your record. Online and phone requests accept credit or debit cards. In-person requests accept cash, check, or card, depending on the office. Mail requests require a check or money order. Current fee amounts are listed on the NCDMV website.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a violation stay on my driving record?

Most traffic violations remain on your North Carolina record for three years from the date of the violation. Some violations, such as reckless driving or driving with a suspended license, may stay longer. License suspensions and revocations appear for the duration of the suspension plus additional time set by state law.

Can I request someone else's driving record?

No, you cannot request another person's driving record without their written consent. The NCDMV will only release a record to the person whose record it is, their attorney, or an authorized representative with a signed power of attorney. Employers and insurance companies must obtain the record directly from the driver or through a third-party service authorized by the driver.

What is the difference between a three-year and complete record?

A three-year record shows violations and accidents from the past three years only. A complete record shows your entire driving history in North Carolina. Most insurance companies and employers request a three-year record. Courts and licensing agencies may request a complete record.

How much does a driving record cost?

Fees vary depending on whether you request a certified or unofficial copy and how you request it. Certified copies cost more than unofficial copies. Check the NCDMV website for current fee amounts, as they may change.

Can I get my record the same day?

Yes, if you visit an NCDMV office in person, you can receive your record the same day, usually within 15 to 30 minutes. Online, phone, and mail requests take longer — typically one to ten business days depending on the method.