What Is a Driving Record?
A driving record is an official document maintained by the Utah Driver License Division (DLD). It provides a history of a driver’s activity behind the wheel, including violations, accidents, suspensions, revocations, and points from traffic offenses. Employers, insurance companies, courts, and law enforcement agencies may request your driving record to assess your driving history and responsibility.
How It Works
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Recordkeeping: Every traffic ticket, DUI, license suspension, or points violation is reported to the Utah DLD.
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Point System: Points for violations (like speeding or reckless driving) are added to your record. Accumulating too many points can lead to suspension.
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Duration: Most violations stay on your record for 3 years, while serious offenses such as DUI remain for 10 years or more.
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Access: You can request a copy of your driving record online, by mail, or in person through the Utah DLD.
Reasons for Driving Records
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Accountability: Keeps track of unsafe driving behavior and enforces state traffic laws.
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Insurance: Insurance companies use driving records to determine your rates. More violations usually mean higher premiums.
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Employment: Some jobs, especially those involving driving (delivery, trucking, rideshare), require a clean record.
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Legal Purposes: Courts and law enforcement use driving records to determine penalties, probation, or repeat offenses.
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Safety: Driving records help ensure that dangerous drivers are identified and, when necessary, restricted from driving.
Takeaway
Your driving record is like a report card of your driving behavior. Safe, responsible driving keeps your record clean—leading to lower insurance costs, more job opportunities, and continued driving privileges.