There are a few reasons why you will want to request a copy of a Georgia driving record or motor vehicle report (MVR).
You may need it for identification purposes, employment screening, point checking, looking for information errors, and much more.
Now, if you need to grab hold of a driving record (whether yours or someone else’s), you might not know where to get it.
We’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll give you a guide on how to get your driving record (MVR) in Georgia.
Plus, we’ll help you understand the Georgia point system and how to avoid points.
So are you ready?
Let’s begin!
Why Do You Need Your Georgia Driving Record?
Georgia driving records are also known as Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). These are comprehensive documents provided by the Georgia Department of Driver Services - DDS.
It contains a comprehensive report on your personal information, GA driver’s license, driving history, and violations.
It is necessary to check your driving record periodically to see how many points you’ve accumulated on your license. Identity theft is also a common occurrence, so it will be a practical habit to check your record for any erroneous information.
Other uses for driving records in Georgia are:
- To investigate identity, debt collection, and personality theft
- By employers to run background checks for pre-employment screening
- By insurance companies to review claims and adjust their policy rates
- For court and legal proceedings to investigate legal cases
What are the Types of Driving Records in Georgia?
There are two (2) types of driving records in Georgia:
- Non-certified MVR
- Certified MVR
You can request these two MVRs as a 3-year, 7-year, or full history report.
Non-Certified MVR
This type of MVR is generally for personal use, such as checking the status of your points or as additional identification documents. Non-certified MVRs can be viewed online for 30 days from the date requested. While users can print the document, it is not allowed to download a copy onto your computer.
Take note that you cannot submit this document as a legal record to employers, insurance agencies, or private investigators.
Certified MVR
This type of MVR is an official document used by employers, businesses, government agencies, investigators, or insurance companies. This version is stamped and certified by the Georgia DDS to contain personal driver information, license status, and driving history from the date the record is printed.
While it is not possible to view the document online, the Georgia DDS will print, certify, and mail a copy to the requestor’s address.
How to Request For Your Georgia Driving Record?
Drivers can request their own Georgia driving record in person, by mail, online, or through the DDS 2 GO mobile app.
Individuals requesting someone else’s driving record may do so by mail or in-person with the official consent of the driver.
Note: if you are a business owner and will need to request 50 or more MVRs within a year, check out the DDS page for Bulk MVR requests.
If you’re requesting a driving record, you will need to pay a fee of:
- 3-year: $6
- 7-year: $8
- Lifetime: $8
Now, let’s get into the details of how to request a driving record.
In-person
You may purchase a copy of your certified three-year, seven-year, or lifetime MVR at your local DMV customer service center.
To purchase, you will need to pay the fee (accepted payment methods include cash, debit, and credit card only), and provide personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and driver’s license number.
Individuals requesting a copy of another driver’s MVR should bring valid identification cards and the signature of the person on the driving record.
Note: The submitted form should be the original copy –– photocopies or faxed documents are not acceptable.
You may also request an MVR by mail.
You will need to print and fill out the Motor Vehicle Request Form (DDS-18), and also provide identification and complete mailing address.
Send your form and payment (check, credit card, money order, or cashier check addressed to the DDS) in a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:
Georgia Department of Driver Services
MVR Request
Post Office Box 80447
Conyers, Georgia 30013
If requesting another driver’s record, you will need to mail their signature with the documents.
Online
Georgia drivers can request a copy of their certified or uncertified MVRs online through the DDS online portal.
Payments can be made online through credit card or debit card or by mail through a check, cashier check, or money order.
Note: If you already have an account with the DDS online portal, you have to make another one due to recent system upgrades. You can create an account through the online portal or the mobile app.
Mobile App
The DDS mobile app allows Georgia drivers to conveniently access a two-year driving history for FREE! It is also easy to request a copy of your non-certified or certified 3-year, 7-year, and lifetime MVR through the app.
The DDS 2 GO mobile app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
How Does the Georgia Point System Work?
Each time a Georgia driver is convicted of a traffic violation, the court in charge will forward a notice to the DDS.
The points and conviction information will then be placed onto the driver’s MVR, and additional penalties will be imposed depending on the case. This can include license suspension and loss of driving privileges.
Note: if you are convicted of a traffic violation, it will be best to view your driving record to see how the offense has affected your license status.
Now, drivers can get 2-6 points per offense depending on the severity of the traffic violation.
Accumulating 15 points on your license within 24 months will have your license suspended.
The good news is that it’s possible to request the DDS to reduce the number of points assessed on your driving record. You can remove up to 7 points once every 5 years.
To qualify for point reduction, you need to complete a 6-hour certified driver improvement or defensive driving course and send the original certificate of completion to the DDS Customer Service Center.
Note: drivers may also voluntarily take the course for license reinstatement, personal education, and insurance premium discounts.
Where to Take Defensive Driving Courses in Georgia?
Take note that only 6-hour defensive driving classroom courses are approved in Georgia for point reduction. You cannot take an online course for this.
If so, we recommend the Academy of DUI and Defensive Driving. They offer classes during the weekend and evening classes for weekdays. This way, you’ll be able to find time to attend no matter your schedule.
If you want to complete a defensive driving course for personal education or insurance premium discounts, you can take it online.
For an online defensive driving course, we highly recommend GoToTrafficSchool. You can take charge of your schedule through self-paced learning and convenient learning tools available 24/7on any device.
Note: before taking the defensive driving course (for any reason), you must first ask permission from the DDS or your insurance company if they will accept it.
Conclusion
As you can see, it’s so easy to get a copy of your MVR.
And the best part, there are many ways you can request for it.
Also, now that you understand the Georgia point system, you can be more aware of the points found in your driving record.
In danger of getting your license suspended?
Enroll in a defensive driving school to brush off points.
We hope this article has been a great help!