Your driving record — also known as your motor vehicle record — isn’t something you think about often.
But there are times when you’ll need to get ahold of it.
For example, your auto insurance company might need it to set your premiums. Or, maybe a court handling is requesting one. Or maybe even you just want to check how many violations you’ve accumulated.
If this is your case, then you might be wondering, “How can I get my driving record?”
Well, we’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll detail the steps to get a Kansas driving record. We’ll also show you the different channels you can get it from.
So are you ready?
Let’s dive right in!
Types of Driving Records in Kansas
Before anything else, you need to know what type of driving record you need.
Now, in Kansas, there are 3 types, namely:
- Limited driver’s license record
- Motor vehicle record
- Certified motor vehicle record
Let’s take a close look at each one.
Limited Driver’s License Record
As the name implies, you don’t get a complete history of your driving record. Also, you only use this record for personal reasons, such as checking your violations.
Another important thing to note is that this is the only type of driving record you can access online.
Motor Vehicle Driving Record
Similar to a limited driver’s license record, this is only used for personal purposes. The difference is that it shows more information about your license and driving history.
Certified Motor Vehicle Record
A certified driving record is what is needed for official use, such as legal, insurance, or employment purposes. It shows the same information as a Motor Vehicle Driving Record but has a stamp of approval from the Department of Revenue.
How to Get My Driving Record in Kansas
Now that you’re familiar with the types of records, let’s go through the steps to getting one.
You can get your Kansas driving record through 3 channels:
- Online
- By Mail
- In Person
Let’s get into the details of each of these channels.
How to Get A Kansas Driving Record Online
As we mentioned earlier, you can only get a limited driver’s license record online. So if you just want to scan through your driving history, this is the best way to do it.
Here are the steps:
- Go to the Kansas Motor Vehicle Records website.
- Enter the necessary information.
- On the options below, select the one that says you are requesting your own record.
- Pay the $16.70 fee.
NOTE: You must still pay the fee even if the search doesn’t come up with your records. Also, the only payment methods available to you are through card and e-check.
- View your driving record. If you want, you can print a copy.
How to Get A Kansas Driving Record by Mail
Whatever type of driving record you need, you can get it by mail.
Here are the steps:
- Print and complete the Request for Access to Vehicle Records form (TRDL 302).
- Enclose $15 for a motor vehicle record or $20 for a certified motor vehicle record.
NOTE: You can only pay through money order or check made payable to Driver Control.
- Send all these to the address below:
Kansas Department of Revenue
Driver Solutions
P.O. Box 2021
Topeka, KS 66601
- Receive your driving record via mail
How to Get A Kansas Driving Record In Person
If you need immediate access to your driving record, then it’s best to go to a full-service driver’s license office.
Plus, you can also get all the types of driving records in person.
Here are the steps:
- Print the Request for Access to Vehicle Records form (TRDL 302) and fill it out.
- Bring it to a full-service driver’s license office.
- Submit the form along with your payment ($15 for a non-certified MVR and $20 for a certified copy). Don’t forget — you can only pay through check or money order made payable to Driver Control.
- Get your driving record.
How to Get Someone Else’s Driving Record in Kansas
The only way to request someone else’s motor vehicle records is through the mail or by visiting a full-service driver’s license office. It’s also usually limited to authorized reasons, which include the following:
- Background checks by prospective employers and businesses
- Legal purposes, such as civil or criminal cases
- Official business by courts and other government agencies
- Insurance agencies that are adjusting policy rates or investigating a claim
You can also request someone else’s records if they give you permission. If so, you must present a consent form (TR 301) signed by the MVR’s owner.
How to Improve Your Kansas Driving Record
One of two things can happen when you receive a copy of your Kansas driving record.
First, you’ll be satisfied with its content because it shows you’re a safe driver.
Second, your record is less than stellar, and you want to improve it.
Unfortunately, there’s no shortcut to improving your driving record. The best strategy is to avoid making it worse than it already is.
So if the latter applies to you, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Check if your information is accurate. Any violation or charges that shouldn’t be there may result in penalties, increased rates, or restricted driving privileges.
- Familiarize yourself with Kansas’ traffic signs, road rules, and conditions. This way, you won’t have to violate any of them and get a violation on your record.
- Practice safe driving maneuvers. This includes keeping within the allowable speed limit, avoiding tailgating, and properly passing other vehicles.
- Apply defensive driving techniques. Spotting potential hazards early on allow you to avoid accidents.
- Keep your attention on the road. Do your best to remove all possible distractions while you’re driving.
- Don’t drive if you’re exhausted or have been drinking.
Moving Violations in Kansas
Unlike most states, Kansas doesn’t have a point system. Instead, the state keeps track of how many moving violations you commit.
Common moving violations include speeding, running a red light, or failing to obey a stop sign.
If you receive 3 violations in 12 months, that may lead to a license suspension of up to one year.
However, some moving violations are considered more serious. These include:
- Driving under the influence
- Driving while suspended
- Reckless driving
- Eluding an officer
- Leaving the scene of an accident
Committing 3 serious moving violations within 5 years earns you a 3-year license suspension. Plus, the DOR will classify you as a habitual violator.
So the next time you check your driving record, make sure to see how many violations you’ve accumulated. You don’t want to face the penalties!
The Wrap Up
Need to get hold of your Kansas driving record?
Well, now you know how.
Not only that, but you know how to get hold of it through the different channels. Plus, you also know what type of record to get, how to improve it, and to watch out for those moving violations.