Need to get ahold of your Mississippi driving record but don’t know how?
Then you’ve come to the right place.
Here, we’re going to give you a complete guide on how to get a Mississippi driving record. We’ll also explain the different types of driving records, how to improve them, and the traffic violations in the state.
You’ll learn everything you need to know.
So let’s get started!
Types of Driving Records in Mississippi
Before we look at how to get your driving record, you first have to know which one you need.
Yes, there is more than one kind of driving record (also known as a motor vehicle record) available in Mississippi:
- Non-certified record
- Certified driving record
Let’s quickly look at each one.
Non-Certified Driving Record
Sometimes you’ll need your driving record for official purposes. Other times, it’ll just be for your personal use. A non-certified driving record is best for the latter.
Only you can purchase a non-certified MVR. Also, you can only get it online.
Certified Driving Record
As mentioned above, there are situations where you’ll need your driving record for an official purpose. For example, presenting it to the court or an auto insurance company. In cases like these, you’ll need a certified copy.
It’s also the type of driving record other parties may require. By other parties, we mean:
- Potential employers
- Insurance companies
- Courts
- Government agencies
You can secure a certified driving record online, by mail, and in person.
How to Get My Driving Record in Mississippi
As we saw, there are three ways to get a copy of your driving record in Mississippi:
- Online
- By Mail
- In Person
Let’s get into the details for each one.
How to Get A Mississippi Driving Record Online
You can get either a non-certified or certified driving record from the comfort of your home.
Talk about convenience!
For easy access, here is how to get your Mississippi driving record online:
- Have the following information ready:
- Driver’s license number
- Last four digits of your social security number
- Credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express)
- Go to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s online portal and type in the required information.
NOTE: Ensure that you write your details the way they appear on your license. Otherwise, the DPS’s system may not find your record.
- Follow the online prompts.
- Pay the fee of $14.31 for a certified record and $11 for a non-certified copy.
- Access your driving record.
NOTE: The driving record is only available to you for 24 hours. If you need it longer, you must print a copy.
How to Get A Mississippi Driving Record By Mail
Another option is to purchase a copy of your driving record through the mail.
Here are the steps to do that:
- Download the Consent to Release Records form (DPPA-2) and fill out all the necessary information.
NOTE: If requesting someone else’s record, you must complete the form, too. However, it must be notarized and signed by the record owner.
- Pay the $11 fee through check or money order made payable to the MS DPS.
- Put everything in a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Send everything to the address below:
Department of Public Safety
Attn: MVR
P.O. Box 1459
Canton, MS 39046
- Wait for your driving record to arrive via mail.
Remember that it might take longer to receive your driving record if you purchase a copy through the mail. You must factor this in, especially if you need it right away.
How to Get A Mississippi Driving Record In Person
Your last (but always available) option is to request your driving record at a DPS office.
Here are the steps:
- Complete the Consent to Release Records form (DPPA-2) and bring it to a local driver’s license office. Click here to find office locations near you.
NOTE: If you are requesting records that aren’t yours, make sure that the form is notarized and signed by the record owner.
- Present it with your driver’s license and/or ID card.
- Pay the $11 fee with cash or a credit/debit card.
- Get a certified copy of your Mississippi driving record.
An in-person request is a surefire way of getting your driving record immediately. If you’re in a rush and don’t want to spend so much on the record, visit a local license office.
How to Improve Your Mississippi Driving Record
Now that you know how to get a copy of your Mississippi driving record, what comes next?
Improving it maybe?
Remember, the cleaner the record, the safer you are as a driver. So here are some things that can get (and keep) you there.
- Regularly check your driving record. It’s your responsibility to check if the information is correct. You must contact Driver Records immediately if you spot any errors.
- Be mindful of traffic signs and road rules. Since violations stay on your records, it’s best to avoid adding new ones. Knowing what you can and can’t do can help prevent future violations.
- Only get behind the wheel when you’re sober. DUIs are a serious moving violation. Not only do these stay on your record longer, but they can potentially cause fatal accidents.
- Manage your initial reactions. Emotional intelligence plays a significant role when you’re driving. You’re more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors like road rage if you can’t maintain your composure.
- Avoid distractions. You can’t eliminate all possible distractions, but lessen those you can. Eat before you drive, so you don’t do so while on the road. The same goes for doing your makeup, texting, or fiddling with your GPS.
All this can help improve your driving record by avoiding violations being added to it.
Understanding the Traffic Violations in Mississippi
Most states use a point system to track drivers’ violations — once you reach a certain number of points, it may result in restricted driving privileges.
Mississippi, on the other hand, doesn’t have this system in place. However, that doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want.
The Department of Public Safety keeps track of your violations, and committing these excessively could result in the suspension or revocation of your license.
The Wrap Up
And there you have it — a complete guide to understanding, getting, and improving your driving record.
If you need it, you now know how to get a Mississippi driving record.
It’s so easy!
So go ahead and get one today!