Are California driving records public?

In California, driving records are not entirely public, but they can be accessed under specific circumstances. Here's a breakdown:

Who Can Access Driving Records?

• You: As the individual named on the record, you can request your own driving record from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
• Authorized Entities: Certain organizations and individuals can access your driving record with legitimate reasons, including:
  • Employers (especially those in transportation).
  • Insurance companies (for underwriting or claims purposes).
  • Law enforcement and government agencies.
  • Attorneys (with legal authorization).
  • Other parties with your written consent.

Restrictions

• Privacy Laws: California has strict privacy laws under the Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), which limits access to and sharing of personal information in driving records.
• Public Access: While some general statistics or anonymized data may be available, individual driving records, including personal details and violations, are not publicly accessible without proper authorization.

How to Request Your Driving Record

You can request your record online, by mail, or in person through the California DMV. You'll typically need:

• Your driver’s license number.
• Payment for any applicable fees.
• Proof of identity.

Let me know if you'd like help with the steps to obtain your driving record!