It’s easy to check your driving record in Georgia, and it’s more important than you might think. Your driving history matters, not only to the Georgia state government and potential employers but also to your auto insurance company, which closely monitors your record to determine your rates. Understanding your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) can help you stay informed and in control of your driving future.
Read on to learn how to obtain your Georgia MVR and why keeping tabs on it is essential.
Why Review Your Georgia Driving Report
How many points do I have on my license?
You might not be able to accurately answer that question unless you have a copy of your motor vehicle records, your Georgia MVR, in front of you. In the state of Georgia, accumulating 15 or more points on your license within a 24-month period can lead to a suspension of your driving privileges.
Knowing your current points total helps you understand how close you are to this threshold. Can you safely handle one more speeding ticket without risking suspension? You won’t know for sure unless you check your Georgia driving record regularly.
It’s also important to know your motor vehicle records because your auto insurance company is closely monitoring your driving history. Insurance companies charge higher premiums for customers with a history of violations or accidents. In fact, a single speeding ticket can increase your premiums by an average of 26% in Georgia. Typically, insurance providers look at your driving record over the past three to five years to determine your rates.
Your Georgia Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) is a complete report of your driving history, including citations, points, accidents, and any license suspensions. Because errors can happen, check your driving record periodically to ensure its accuracy. Maintaining a clean driving record will help you avoid penalties and keep your insurance rates lower.
Types of Georgia Driving Records: Certified vs. Non-Certified
When obtaining your Georgia driving record, there are two types of reports available: certified and non-certified.
Non-Certified Driving Record Reports
These reports are available for immediate online viewing once purchased and can be accessed for up to 30 days after the date requested. However, non-certified reports typically cannot be downloaded to a computer and may not be accepted by third parties such as employers or insurance companies.
Certified Driving Record Reports
Certified driving records are the official versions, stamped and certified by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). These reports are mailed to the requester’s address and are not available for instant online viewing. Certified copies are generally required when an official, legally recognized document is needed.
Driving Record Report Length Options
Both certified and non-certified Georgia driving records can be ordered in three different lengths: three-year, seven-year, or lifetime reports, depending on your needs.
Information Included in a Driving Record Report
A Georgia driving record includes details such as moving violation convictions, vehicle accident records, current license status, and other relevant driving history information. The DDS maintains and provides both certified and non-certified records to ensure drivers have access to accurate and comprehensive driving history reports.
Cost of Obtaining a Georgia Driving Record
When requesting a full, official Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) in Georgia, fees apply depending on the type and length of the report you choose. The cost varies based on whether you select a 3-year, 7-year, or lifetime driving history report.
- A 3-year driving history report costs $6.
- A 7-year driving history report costs $8.
- A lifetime driving history report also costs $8.
If you are creating a new account to order an MVR, there is a one-time $20 setup fee charged when ordering only a single report. However, this setup fee is waived if you order more than one MVR in your initial order.
These fees cover the official processing and certification of your driving record, ensuring you receive an accurate and legally recognized document for personal, employment, or insurance purposes.
How to Obtain Your Georgia Driving Record
You can quickly and conveniently get your Georgia driving record online, through the DDS 2 GO Mobile App, in person, or by mail, with several options to suit your needs.
The DDS 2 GO Mobile App allows you to view a free, non-certified 2-year driving history. To access this and other driving records, you must first create a secure online account with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
Online: Fast and Convenient
Ordering online is the fastest and easiest method. Start by signing in or registering for an account at the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website. You can request your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) directly from the site. Payment must be made electronically using a credit or debit card. Non-certified reports are available immediately for viewing online, while certified versions are mailed to your address.
When ordering online, you can choose between a 3-year or 7-year report. After submitting your request, you will receive an email confirmation with details about your processed order.
In-Person: Direct Service
If you prefer to handle your request in person, visit any DDS customer service center. Bring your driver’s license and payment, which can be made by cash or credit/debit card. The office will print out the MVR for you on the spot.
By Mail: Traditional but Slower
To order by mail, download and complete form DDS-18 from the Georgia DDS website. Your signature must be notarized to verify your identity. Mail the completed form along with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the payment to:
Georgia Department of Driver Services
MVR Request
PO Box 80447
Conyers, GA 30013
These flexible options allow you to obtain your Georgia driving record in the format and timeframe that best fits your needs, whether for personal review, employment, or legal purposes.
Employers and Driving Record Checks in Georgia
In Georgia, standard Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) used for employment or insurance purposes must be purchased and are not available for free. Employers often use Georgia MVR reports as part of their pre-employment background checks to verify a candidate’s driving history and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
Driving records provide potential employers with a snapshot of the candidate’s driving history, license status, and other important driving record information. MVR checks are particularly common for positions that require operating a company vehicle, such as delivery drivers and rideshare employees. Employers hiring for Department of Transportation (DOT)-regulated roles are mandated to perform both pre-employment and annual DOT background checks, which include reviewing driving records.
Utilizing Georgia MVR reports enables employers to mitigate risk, maintain compliance with laws, and potentially reduce business vehicle insurance rates. Employers need to obtain the driver’s written consent and signature before requesting an MVR for another person. They must also adhere to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when conducting background checks, ensuring proper notification, consent, and handling of driving record information.
Key Takeaways About Your Georgia MVR
Your Georgia Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) offers a detailed snapshot of your driving history, including violations, accidents, license status, and points accumulated. Whether you obtain a certified or non-certified version, reviewing your MVR ensures your driving record is accurate and up to date. If you spot any errors, be sure to contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services promptly to correct them and maintain a clean, reliable record.