Idaho Driving Records

Your driving history reflects your behavior and responsibility on the road, and in Idaho. That information is recorded in an official document known as a driving record. Often referred to as a driving history report or motor vehicle record (MVR), it includes important details like traffic citations, license status, and any suspensions or revocations.

Each state maintains its own version of these records, and the process for accessing them varies based on individual state laws. Reviewing records may help you stay aware of your driving status and avoid unexpected issues related to your driving privileges.

What Is an Idaho Driving Record?

An Idaho driving record details a person's history as a licensed driver in the state. This document is officially called a motor vehicle record (MVR), although it may also be referred to as a driver's license record (DLR) on official request forms. You may obtain this record from the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which operates under the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD).

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

While MVRs and public driving records may appear to be similar, these two records are quite different in terms of accuracy, source, and intended use.

Only the ITD issues an official Idaho MVR. Because it comes directly from the state's official records, it is considered the most accurate and comprehensive option.

In contrast, public driving records are typically compiled by independent public record companies such as RecordsFinder, which pull information from various public databases. While the data might not always reflect the most recent updated record, RecordsFinder is designed to be a helpful resource for those who need quick access to a driver's history without going through the formal state request process.

Why Would You Need a Driving Record?

Here are some of the most common reasons people request driving records:

• Insurance Purposes: Insurance companies often pull a driver's history to determine premiums.
• Court-Ordered Records: If a driver is involved in a traffic violation, they may need to present their driving record in court to contest a ticket, request a reduced sentence, or meet other legal requirements.
• License Reinstatement: The record is often required to prove drivers have met all the necessary conditions for reinstatement.
• Background Checks: Many background checks, especially for jobs or housing, may include a look at your driving history.
• Personal Monitoring: Some drivers may request a copy of their own driving records to monitor their history, check for errors, or simply keep track of points and violations.

What Information Is Included in a Driver Report?

An Idaho driver report typically contains the following information:

• Driver information
• License status
• Traffic violations
• Suspensions or revocations
• Court convictions

Idaho driver's license records do not include accident information. Anyone needing details about a specific vehicle crash must request an Idaho crash report separately.

In addition, certain personal data is protected. Information such as a driver's photo, digitized image or signature, Social Security Number (SSN), and any medical or disability-related details cannot be shared without the driver's written consent.

Types of Driver Records Available in Idaho

In Idaho, there are two main types of driver records available to individuals: the 3-year driving record and the entire Idaho driving record.

The 3-year record generally provides a summary of a driver's activity over the past three years. This version is commonly used for purposes such as insurance rate assessments, employment background checks, or personal monitoring.

On the other hand, the entire Idaho driving record contains a comprehensive account of the driver's full history with the Idaho DMV. Because of its depth, this record is often required for court proceedings, legal matters, or more in-depth background checks.

Both types of records may be requested as certified copies, which come stamped and sealed by the ITD (Idaho Transportation Department) for various official or legal purposes, or as non-certified copies for informal purposes.

Traffic Violations and Tickets in Idaho

In Idaho, traffic violations are governed by laws designed to promote safe driving and efficient traffic flow. These laws are outlined in Title 49, Chapter 6 of the Idaho Code, commonly known as the Rules of the Road.

Common Types of Traffic Violations

Idaho traffic violations are classified into two main categories: moving violations, which involve unsafe driving behaviors, and non-moving violations, which typically relate to vehicle condition or documentation. Below are some of the most frequent offenses drivers may encounter across the state:

• Speeding
• Running red lights
• Illegal U-turns
• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Expired tags or registration
• Parking violations

What to Do When You Get a Traffic Ticket

If you get a traffic ticket in Idaho, it is important to take action right away. You typically have a few options: pay the fine, challenge the ticket, or appear in court if it is required.

Pay the Traffic Ticket

You may pay a traffic citation in Idaho in one of three ways:

• Online: Visit the iCourt Portal and search for the case using your name, citation number, or driver's license number. You may pay the fine electronically.
• By Mail: You also have the option to mail a check or money order to the courthouse listed on your citation. Be sure to include any required documents.
• In Person: Many counties still allow payments at the courthouse or court clerk's office during business hours.

Paying a ticket is an admission of guilt. Once paid, the violation will be recorded on your Idaho driving record.

Contest the Ticket

If you believe your traffic ticket was issued by mistake or you want to challenge the charges, you have the right to plead not guilty. To do this, you will need to notify the court, either by mail or in person, and attend a hearing where you will be able to present your side of the story. After reviewing the evidence, the court will decide whether to dismiss the citation or uphold it.

Appear in Court

Some citations, especially those involving misdemeanor offenses or more serious violations, require an in-person court appearance. This information will be listed in the citation. If you do not appear in court when required, you could face additional legal consequences.

If a ticket has been misplaced, drivers may retrieve the details by searching the iCourt Portal using personal information or by contacting the local court clerk.

How Does the Idaho Point System Work?

Idaho uses a violation point system to track driving violations and encourage safer driving habits. Each violation carries a point value based on its severity:

• Exceeding the speed limit by 1 to 15 miles per hour will add 3 points. Going over the limit by 16 miles per hour or more will result in 4 points.
• Running a red light or stop sign adds 3 points.
• Failure to yield carries 3 points.

As points add up, the state may issue warning letters when you reach certain levels:

• 8 to 11 points in 12 months
• 14 to 17 points in 24 months
• 20 to 23 points in 36 months

When a driver accumulates 12 or more points within 12 months, their driving privileges may be jeopardized.

How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Driving History

Most moving violations, like speeding or running a red light, result in points added to your record by the Idaho DMV. These points generally remain for three years from the date of conviction.

More serious offenses, such as DUI, are treated differently. While standard driving records usually show only the past three years of activity, a DUI conviction is permanently recorded in the DMV's system.

Idaho also uses a 10-year "lookback" period for DUIs, which means any additional DUI offenses within that timeframe are typically subject to stricter penalties.

Can You Remove Violations from Your Record?

In Idaho, traffic-related convictions generally cannot be erased or sealed from your driving record. The state does not provide a standard expungement process for adult convictions, even if a pardon has been granted.

While completing a Defensive Driving Course or a Traffic Safety Course may reduce the number of points on your record, these options do not remove the violation or conviction itself from your official record.

However, the court system offers limited alternatives. Drivers may be eligible for a one-time "Withheld Judgment", which allows the court to hold off on entering a conviction if the individual successfully completes probation.

In some cases, under Idaho law, a driver may ask the court to dismiss the case or lower a felony charge to a misdemeanor after completing sentencing requirements. These outcomes may change how the offense appears on background checks but do not erase the incident entirely.

For those who are never formally charged, have charges dropped, or are found not guilty, Idaho does allow non-conviction records to be sealed. This request may be made through the Idaho State Police and, if approved, removes the record from public databases, though it remains available to law enforcement and the courts.

How To Check Your Vehicle History

Idaho drivers have three primary options for obtaining their motor vehicle history:

Online

The fastest way to access your driving history is through the ITD Online Services. This portal allows you to obtain a digital copy of your 3-year non-certified driving record, which is typically sufficient for personal use or insurance verification.

To complete the request, you'll need:

• Your full name and date of birth
• Your Idaho driver's license number
• The document discriminator number (DD#) from your license
• A valid credit or debit card for payment

The online option only provides a 3-year summary and is not suitable if you need a certified or full driving history.

By Mail

To obtain a full or certified copy of your Idaho driving record, you must submit a request by mail using the official form. This is ideal for formal purposes, such as legal matters, licensing boards, or job applications that require a complete driving history.

Here is how to do it:

• Download and complete the Request for Driver's License Record Form (ITD 3120) from the ITD website.
• Select the type of record you need, either a 3-year summary or full history, and whether you need it certified.
• Include a check or money order made out to the Idaho Transportation Department (do not send cash).

• Mail the form and payment to:

  Idaho Transportation Department

  P.O. Box 34

  Boise, ID 83707-0034

In-Person

You may also request your driving record in person at any Idaho DMV office. This method is useful if you prefer face-to-face assistance or need the record on the same day. The process mirrors the mail-in method but allows for immediate processing.

To make your request in person, bring the following:

• A completed ITD 3120 form
• A valid form of photo ID
• Payment via check, card, or money order (policies may vary by county)

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

The cost of getting your driving record in Idaho depends on the method you use and whether you need a certified copy.

If requesting your driving history by mail or in person at a DMV office, the fees are:

• $7 for an uncertified driving record
• $21 for a certified copy of your driving record

If you prefer to get your record online, it will be $10.50 for a non-certified 3-year driving record, which is inclusive of the processing fee.

Processing times may also vary depending on how you request your record:

• Online: Immediate access
• By mail: Typically 7 to 14 business days
• In-person: Usually same-day service

Payments are non-refundable. In other words, if you enter incorrect information or your record cannot be found, the fee will not be returned.

How To Check Your Driving History for Free

Idaho does not offer free full driving records. However, you may check your license status at no cost through the Idaho DMV's online services. This free check lets you confirm if your license is valid, suspended, or requires reinstatement. It does not show past violations, accidents, or license points.

To use the free "Check Driver Status" tool, you will need:

• Your name and date of birth
• Either your driver's license number or your SSN

You may also call the ITD at (208) 584-4343 or visit a DMV office to ask about your license status.

What Happens If You Have a Bad Driving Record?

In Idaho, a bad driving record usually stems from accumulating moving violations. Collecting too many points may lead to the suspension of your license. The suspension times based on the points accumulated are as follows:

• 12–17 points in 12 months = 30-day suspension
• 18–23 points in 24 months = 90-day suspension
• 24 or more points in 36 months = 6-month suspension

On the other hand, non-moving violations, like parking tickets, generally do not affect your driving record. Additionally, verbal or written warnings from officers are not recorded in your driving history.

How Does a Bad Driving Record Affect Insurance and Employment?

Insurance companies often check your driving history when determining your premium rates. If your record includes violations like speeding tickets or DUIs, your premiums are likely to increase.

For example, a single speeding ticket could raise your rates by about 18% in Idaho. More serious offenses, like a DUI, may lead to a 40% increase in premiums, and those hikes can last for years, depending on the violation.

In terms of employment, many employers carefully review an applicant's driving history. Federal regulations require trucking companies to check their drivers' MVRs when hiring, as well as annually thereafter. Serious violations such as DUIs or excessive speeding may disqualify you from driving commercial vehicles.

Who Can Access Your Idaho Driving History?

Under Idaho Code Section 49-203, you may access your own driving record, while authorized entities like employers and insurance companies may view your record for employment or risk evaluation. Law enforcement may access your record for traffic enforcement and investigations.

The Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), a federal law, protects your personal information on driving records. It limits the release of sensitive data, such as SSNs and home addresses, and allows access only for certain purposes. Both Idaho state law and the DPPA prohibit unauthorized access, resale, or misuse of your driving record, with penalties for violations.

FAQs About Idaho Driving Records

Find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Idaho driving records below.

Related Articles

When Your Driving License Can Be Revoked and What You Can Do About It?

Is Drunk Driving a Felony, What’s the Punishment, and How Many People Die From It?

What Is a Clean Driving Record, How It Affects Insurance and How to Keep It Clean

What is an Ignition Interlock Device?