Public Records

The simple answer is yes. All driving records are public and available for potential employers to view.  Yet federal and state privacy laws restrict what driving record information can be viewed and under what circumstances.

Many prospective employers conduct background checks when screening job applicants.  Often background checks include obtaining the applicant’s driving history, especially if the job requires driving or use of a company vehicle.  The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) outlines how background checks can be conducted and what rights a job applicant has in protecting their privacy.  The FCRA requires a prospective employer to obtain written permission from the applicant before accessing public records such as a driving record.  So, although driving records are public, an applicant can deny a prospective employer from accessing their driving record.  However, an employer reserves the right to dismiss an applicant who refuses to allow such access, so that’s usually not much of an option if you want to get hired.

Restricted Info

The type of information available for viewing in a driving record is restricted by federal and state privacy laws, so not all driving record information is “public.”  With your permission, a prospective employer can access information pertaining specifically to your driving history, such as convictions, citations, accidents, suspensions and revocations.  However, personally identifying information, such as addresses, phone numbers and social security numbers, are only available to authorized personnel, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles for use in carrying out its functions; for any state, federal or local proceeding if the proceeding involves a motor vehicle; for automobile and driver safety purposes, such as conducting recall of motor vehicles; for use in market research activities, and by licensed private investigators.

Get a Copy

If you would like to know what a prospective employer will see on your driving record, you can obtain a copy of your driving record online.  Ordering your driving record online is fast and will better prepare you for the job screening process.