Delaware Driving Records

Every state, including Delaware, maintains its own set of driving records, and specific laws govern how these records are stored, accessed, and used. These records, often called DMV driving records or driving history reports, generally provide a snapshot of an individual's time on the road.

Some states may allow employers or insurers to view parts of your Delaware motor vehicle record, while others limit access to protect your privacy. Understanding your rights and how your driving history report is managed may help you stay informed and in control of your personal driving data.

What Is a Delaware Driving Record?

A Delaware driving record is official documentation detailing an individual's driving conduct. Although the essential components of driving records remain consistent nationwide, states may designate them with varying titles and adhere to distinct reporting criteria, such as driver record, driver history record, or motor vehicle record.

In Delaware, this document is officially known as the driving record and is issued by the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

What Is The Difference Between Official Driving Records and Public Driving Records?

The key difference between official and public driving records lies in their source, accuracy, and intended use.

An official driving record is issued directly by the Delaware DMV and generally provides an up-to-date summary of a driver's record. Access to these official documents is restricted under privacy laws, meaning they are typically only available to the driver and certain authorized parties. These records are often used for legal purposes.

In contrast, a public driving record may be compiled by third-party services like RecordsFinder, which are designed to aggregate information from publicly available records or databases. These records are generally easier to access but may not be as complete as the official driving records. They are typically used for background checks or informational purposes.

Why Would You Need a Driving Record?

Below are some of the common reasons why you may need to obtain a driving record in Delaware:

• Employment Purposes: Employers, especially in transportation or delivery industries, often review driver records to evaluate a candidate's driving history and ensure they meet safety standards.
• Insurance Rate Determination: Insurance companies may use driving history reports to assess a driver's risk level and determine appropriate premium rates.
• Legal Requirements: A court may request a driving report as part of legal proceedings, particularly if a driver is involved in traffic-related cases or has a history of violations.
• License Reinstatement: Individuals seeking to reinstate a suspended or revoked license may need to provide a copy of their driving record to show compliance with requirements or document behavior improvement.
• Personal Review: Drivers may obtain their records to check for accuracy, monitor points, or resolve discrepancies that could impact their driving privileges or insurance.
• Background Checks: A driving record may be requested during background checks for specific licenses, government positions, or volunteer roles that involve transportation responsibilities.

What Information Is Included in a Driver Report?

Delaware driver reports generally assess a driver's reliability and competence behind the wheel. They typically include the following information:

• Personal Information: Includes the driver's full name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number.
• License Status and Classification: Details the current status of the driver's license, which may include valid, suspended, and revoked status, as well as the type of license held.
• Traffic Violations: Lists any traffic tickets or citations received.
• Accident History: Documents any reported accidents, including dates and details of the incidents.
• Points Accumulated: Shows the number of demerit points assigned for traffic violations.
• Administrative Actions: Includes records of any mandatory driver improvement courses or other administrative measures the Delaware DMV took.
• License Suspensions or Revocations: Provides information on any past suspensions or revocations of the driver's license, including reasons and durations.

Types of Driver Records Available in Delaware

There are three main types of driver records available in Delaware:

3-Year Driving Record

The 3-Year driving record in Delaware provides a concise overview of an individual's recent driving activities over the past three years. It may include information on traffic violations, changes in license status, and any accidents during this period. This record type is generally suitable for personal use and may fulfill basic employment requirements.

5-Year Driving Record

Covering a timeframe of five years, this driving record may reveal potential behavior patterns or incidents that might not be apparent in a shorter record. Employers or insurance companies seeking a more comprehensive assessment of an individual's driving habits and associated risks may find this extended record beneficial.

Full Driving Record

The full driving record typically covers an individual's entire driving history. It includes all traffic infractions, collisions, and administrative actions such as suspensions, restrictions, or revocations. Additionally, it generally notes any participation in defensive driving programs and documents point accumulations on the license.

This comprehensive record is often required for legal inquiries, extensive background checks, or when a complete driving history is needed.

Traffic Violations and Tickets in Delaware

Traffic violations generally encompass moving and non-moving violations deemed unsafe or unlawful under the state's motor vehicle regulations. These offenses are governed by the Delaware Traffic Code and, in some instances, by provisions within the Delaware Criminal Code.

The severity of the consequences of a traffic offense is typically influenced by the nature of the violation and any aggravating circumstances, such as repeat offenses or causing injury.

Penalties for violating traffic laws in Delaware may include monetary fines, accumulating demerit points on a driver's record, suspension or revocation of a driver's license, vehicle impoundment, and, in more serious cases, incarceration.

Common Types of Traffic Violations

Delaware traffic violations are generally classified into three categories based on severity: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Each category carries different legal consequences, ranging from minor penalties to serious criminal charges.

Traffic infractions typically involve non-criminal offenses that do not result in jail time. These are usually handled through fines or administrative penalties like demerit points on a driver's license.

Meanwhile, misdemeanors and felonies are more serious violations that may result in significant harm or demonstrate extreme disregard for public safety. These violations generally carry more severe penalties, which may include imprisonment, hefty fines, or even permanent loss of driving privileges.

Among the common types of traffic violations in the state are the following:

• Speeding
• Failing to obey traffic control devices like stop signs or traffic signals
• Driving without a valid driver's license
• Reckless driving
• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Distracted driving
• Hit and run
• Racing on highways
• Driving a stolen vehicle
• Vehicular homicide

What To Do When You Get a Traffic Ticket

If you receive a traffic ticket in Delaware, whether you are a resident or not, you are legally responsible for addressing it. Law enforcement officers may issue a citation to any driver violating state motor vehicle laws. Once you are ticketed, you have two primary options. You either pay the fine or contest the charge in court.

Paying the ticket is the more straightforward route and is treated as an admission of guilt. You must make the payment within 30 days, either in person at any Justice of the Peace Criminal Court location or by mailing it to the address listed on the ticket.

If you believe the ticket was issued in error or wish to challenge it, you have the right to a trial. To begin this process, you must sign and send the ticket to the court, signaling your intent to contest. Afterward, the court will send a notice informing you of the date and location of your required appearance.

Whether you plan to pay or dispute the citation, timely action is crucial. Ignoring a traffic ticket may lead to more serious legal consequences.

How Does the Delaware Point System Work?

Delaware employs a point system to monitor and address unsafe driving behaviors. Under this system, drivers are assigned points for specific traffic violations they committed. Accumulating too many points may lead to penalties.

The table below lists the common traffic violations in Delaware and their designated point values:

When Delaware drivers accumulate enough points, they will face different consequences, which typically include the following:

• 8 points: DMV issues an advisory letter
• 12 points: Mandatory enrollment in an attitudinal driving program
• 14 points: Four-month license suspension
• 16 points: Six-month license suspension
• 18 points: Eight-month license suspension
• 20 points: Ten-month license suspension
• 22 points: 12-month license suspension

How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Driving History?

Traffic violations and their associated points remain on your Delaware driving history report for 24 months from the date of conviction. During the first 12 months, points are assessed at their full value; after that, they are reduced to half their value for the remaining 12 months.

However, certain serious violations, such as DUI offenses, remain on your record for a minimum of five years.

Can You Remove Violations from Your Record?

Removing traffic violations from your Delaware driver record is generally limited, as most infractions cannot be removed before the 24-month period expires.

Expungement is possible in the state, but is limited to certain non-criminal traffic violations and is subject to eligibility criteria. You may contact the Delaware State Bureau of Identification (SBI) to determine your eligibility.

Delaware also offers drivers the opportunity to complete a state-approved defensive driving course. This course provides a 3-point credit on your driving record. While it does not remove existing points, the credit applies to future violations and may help mitigate the impact of any additional infractions.

How To Check Your Vehicle History

You may request your Delaware motor vehicle history report through the DMV using one of the following methods:

• Online
  • Log in to your MyDMV account. If you do not have an account, you may register through the MyDMV User Registration.
  • Select the type of record you need.
  • Pay the required fee using a major credit or debit card.
• By Mail
  • Complete the Personal Information Release Form (MV703).
  • Have the completed form notarized.
  • Include a check or money order for payment (must be made payable to the "Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles"
  • Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

  • Mail the complete package to the following address:

    Division of Motor Vehicles

    ATTN: Driver License Administration

    P.O. Box 698

    Dover, DE 19903

• In Person
  • Visit any Delaware DMV office.
  • Fill out the Form MV703.
  • Submit the completed form and show a valid form of identification.
  • Pay the required fee.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Driving Record in Delaware?

Obtaining a Delaware driving record typically costs $25, regardless of your chosen method. This fee applies to all types of records, including 3-year, 5-year, and full driving records.

For online requests, driving records may be printed immediately upon payment. In-person requests are processed the same day, while mail requests can take more time to process.

How To Check Your Driving History for Free?

You cannot review your Delaware driving history for free. However, third-party services may offer access to this information at no cost. Caution is advised when using such services, as their information may be incomplete or inaccurate.

You may also consider checking with your auto insurance provider, employer, or local court. These entities often maintain your driving reports, especially if you are involved in traffic violations, incidents, or claims.

What Happens If You Have a Bad Driving Record?

Maintaining a clean driving record is essential for avoiding legal and financial complications and preserving your driving privileges in Delaware.

If you have a bad driving record or a history of moving violations, you may face consequences like license suspension or revocation, DMV intervention, and the requirement to complete corrective actions such as mandatory driving courses.

While non-moving violations like parking tickets do not appear on your driving record, you may still face fines and other penalties if you leave them unsettled. Likewise, warnings issued by law enforcement officers are not considered formal citations and do not go on your driving record.

How Does a Bad Driving Record Affect Insurance and Employment?

Delaware insurance companies, like in other states, may evaluate your driver record when determining your premiums. A history of moving violations, accidents, or serious offenses, such as DUI, signals a higher risk to insurers. As a result, drivers with bad records typically face:

• Higher Premiums: Even a few speeding tickets or minor accidents may raise your rates. More serious violations may cause your premiums to skyrocket.
• Limited Coverage Options: Some insurance providers may refuse to cover high-risk drivers, forcing them to seek coverage from companies specializing in high-risk policies.
• SR-22 Requirement: If your license was suspended due to a serious offense, Delaware may require you to file an SR-22 (proof of financial responsibility), which often comes with additional fees and marks you as a high-risk driver.
• Loss of Discounts: Safe driver discounts and other incentives are often unavailable to those with poor records.

In terms of employment, a poor driving history may also limit your job prospects, especially for positions where driving is part of the job description.

Even if the job does not require constant driving, employers may still consider a poor driving record as a sign of risk or irresponsibility. In some cases, a suspended license could disqualify you entirely, especially if reliable transportation is essential to the role.

Who Can Access Your Delaware Driving History?

The Federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) governs the disclosure of personal information in motor vehicle records, including driving history. This code generally protects names, addresses, contact details, driver's license numbers, and other details.

Delaware backs this federal regulation through Delaware Code Title 21 Section 305. This state regulation outlines that the DMV may release driver record information only under the rules and purposes allowed by the DPPA. More specifically, disclosure is permitted only for those with permissible uses and those authorized by the record holder.

FAQs About Delaware Driving Records

Peruse the following questions for more information about Delaware driving record:

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