Driver's Record in Texas (2026 Guide)
Texas Driver Violation Point System
In Texas, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) used to operate under a point-based system known as the Driver Responsibility Program (DRP). However, this program was repealed in 2019. While points are no longer used to assess surcharges, traffic violations are still tracked and can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and license status.
Even though Texas no longer uses a formal point system for penalties, traffic convictions still appear on your driving record and can result in license suspensions or other penalties if left unresolved.
What Replaced the Point System in Texas
With the repeal of the Driver Responsibility Program, surcharges based on point accumulation were eliminated. However, moving violations for drivers are officially tracked by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
How to Check Your Driving Record in Texas
Although Texas repealed its Driver Responsibility Program (points system) in 2019, moving violations and convictions are still recorded on your driving history. These entries can impact your insurance rates and license status. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) provides two primary ways to obtain your driving record: online or by mail. Note: Driver records are not available for purchase at Driver License Offices or by phone.
- Online: The fastest method is to order through the Texas.gov Driver Record Request portal. You will need your driver’s license number, date of birth, and the audit number from your license. The fee varies by record type; a Type 3A (Certified Complete Driving History), which is commonly required for defensive driving courses, costs $10.00. You can print the record immediately after purchase.
- By Mail: You can request your record by completing the Application for Copy of Driver Record (Form DR-1). Mail the completed form along with a check or money order payable to "Texas Department of Public Safety" to the address listed on the form. The fee for a Type 3A record by mail is $10.00. Processing can take up to three weeks.
- In-Person: Texas DPS Driver License Offices do not issue driving records in person. You must use the online or mail options.
- By Phone: The Texas DPS does not accept requests for driving records over the phone.
How to Protect Your Texas Driving Record
Even though points are no longer used in Texas, violations can still impact your driving history and lead to penalties. One of the best ways to maintain a clean record is by taking a Defensive Driving Course approved by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), such as the one offered by I Drive Safety.
Benefits of taking a Texas defensive driving course include:
- Dismissing a traffic ticket (if eligible)
- Preventing the violation from appearing on your record
- Qualifying for insurance discounts
You can generally take the course once every 12 months to dismiss an eligible citation.
Below are our top Texas defensive driving school recommendations for 2026.
| Provider | Rating | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Drive Safely |
4.8
|
Fast Completion | See Price |
| IMPROV |
4.7
|
Comedy Content | See Price |
How Texas Handles Traffic Violations
Here are examples of common traffic violations in Texas and how they are handled on your driving record:
| Violation | Effect on Driving Record |
|---|---|
| Speeding (10% or more over the posted limit) | Appears as a conviction |
| Failure to stop at a red light or stop sign | Appears as a conviction |
| Driving without insurance | May result in license suspension and fines |
| Reckless driving | Conviction on record; may lead to suspension |
| Driving while license is invalid or expired | Possible criminal charges and record impact |
| Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI) | Automatic license suspension; court penalties |
When Can Your Driver's License Be Suspended in Texas
In Texas, the reason and the length of a driver's license suspension depends on the violation. Here's a breakdown of common suspension reasons and periods based on the offense:
| Suspension Reason | Typical Suspension Period |
|---|---|
| Too many traffic violations (4 in 12 months or 7 in 24 months) | 30 to 180 days |
| Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) - 1st offense | 90 days to 1 year |
| DWI - 2nd or subsequent offense | 180 days to 2 years |
| Refusal to take breath/blood test (Implied Consent) | 180 days (1st refusal) Up to 2 years (repeat refusal) |
| Driving without insurance (and causing a crash) | Until proof of financial responsibility is filed (SR-22 for 2 years) |
| Drug or controlled substance offense | 180 days |
| Street racing or evading police | 1 year |
| Driving while license is suspended (DWLS) | Additional 90 days to 2 years |
| Underage alcohol or drug violations (under 21) | 30 to 180 days |
| Failure to pay child support or court fines | Until obligations are met |
Drive Smart. Stay on the Road in Texas!
Understanding how Texas handles traffic violations is essential for protecting your license and keeping your insurance rates low. If you've received a ticket, completing Defensive Driving Course approved by TDLR can help you stay on the road and avoid long-term consequences.
About the Author
When he’s not decoding DMV jargon, you’ll usually find him on a tennis court or cycling up a hill he regrets halfway through.
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