Whether you’re applying for a new job, checking for accuracy, or trying to lower your insurance rates, your driving history can impact various aspects of your life. Have you ever wondered, “How do I get a copy of my driving record in Illinois?” Read as we share what you need to know.
What Is a Driving Record?
An Illinois driving record is a comprehensive document detailing your driving history. It includes traffic violations, accident reports, license suspensions, and points accrued on your license. The Illinois Secretary of State maintains this record of your driving activities.
Having a clear understanding of your driving record in Illinois is crucial. Errors on your Illinois driver abstract may lead to higher insurance rates or legal complications.
Different Types of Illinois Driving Records
In Illinois, driving records come in several forms, each serving distinct purposes and containing various levels of detail. Knowing the differences between these records can help you better understand what information various entities access and use.
Public Driving Record Abstract
This type of abstract is the most requested. It includes details on traffic violations, points accrued, and any accidents reported. Insurers and employers often use it to evaluate your driving behavior and risk profile.
Affected Driving Record Abstract
This record is more comprehensive than the public abstract and includes confidential information such as license suspensions, revocations, and reinstatements. It’s accessible only to the driver and authorized entities, such as legal representatives or law enforcement.
Steps To Obtain Your Illinois Driving Record
How do you get a copy of your driving record in Illinois? There are several methods available, each with advantages. You can access your driving record online, by mail, or in person.
Online Method: Quick and Convenient
The Illinois Secretary of State’s online services are the most efficient way to obtain your driving record. This method allows you to purchase, download, and print a certified copy of your driving record abstract from the comfort of your home.
To use the online service, you’ll need your Illinois driver’s license number, date of birth, the last four digits of your social security number, the issue and expiration date of your driver’s license, the class of license, your weight (as listed on your license), and a valid credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover). You’ll need to print the PDF document containing your Illinois driving record. Follow the steps below:
- Visit the official website: Go to the Illinois Secretary of State Driving Record Abstract Request page.
- Affirm your request: Confirm that you’re requesting your own driving record by checking the affirmation box.
- Enter your personal information: Provide all the required details exactly as they appear on your driver’s license.
- Select the record type: Choose between the public driving record abstract, the court purposes abstract, or both.
- Review and pay: Double-check all the information for accuracy. The fee is $20 plus a $1 payment processor fee. You can make payments with a valid credit or debit card.
- Download and print: After payment, you can immediately download and print your certified driving record in Illinois.
You can reprint your driving record for up to five days after the initial purchase. Using the online method is quick and provides you with a certified copy of your driver’s record in Illinois that you can use for various purposes, including insurance applications and employment background checks.
By Mail: Traditional but Effective
If you prefer a more traditional approach or don’t have immediate access to a computer or printer, you can request your Illinois driving record by mail. While it takes longer than the online method, it’s a reliable way to obtain your driving history.
Preparing Your Request
Follow the steps below to request your record by mail:
- Download the request form: Visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website to download the Driving Record Abstract Request Form.
- Complete the form: Fill out all required sections accurately. Include your full legal name, date of birth, sex, and Illinois driver’s license number.
- Prepare the payment: Write a check or money order for $20, payable to the Secretary of State.
- Mail the documents: Send the completed form to the address on the form.
- Wait for processing: Allow 10 working days for processing before you receive the certified Illinois driving record through the mail.
While this method requires patience, it’s effective if you’re not in a rush or prefer handling official matters through traditional mail.
In-Person: Immediate Results
For immediate results, you can obtain your Illinois driver abstract in person.
What You Need To Bring
You’ll need to bring the following when you visit in person:
- Completed Driving Record Abstract Request Form: You can fill this out ahead of time after downloading it from the Secretary of State’s website.
- Valid identification: Bring your Illinois driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID.
- Payment: The fee is $20. If you pay with a credit or debit card, an additional $1 payment processor fee applies.
Steps To Follow
Complete the steps below to obtain your record in person:
- Locate a facility: Find an Illinois Driver Services facility near you.
- Submit your request: Present your completed form, ID, and payment to the clerk.
- Receive your record: You’ll receive your DMV driving record in Illinois immediately.
This straightforward method provides immediate access to your motor vehicle record in Illinois. It’s beneficial if you need to verify your Illinois driver’s license status urgently.
Final Tips on Maintaining a Clean Driving History
Your Illinois driving record plays a significant role in your life. Here are some tips to help you maintain a clean driving history:
- Regularly check your record: Reviewing your driver’s record in Illinois ensures all information is accurate. Even minor errors can impact insurance rates.
- Address tickets promptly: Unpaid tickets, even minor parking violations, can lead to added fines and penalties.
- Attend driving courses: Consider taking a driving school course if you’ve accumulated points on your license, as this can sometimes reduce points on your Illinois driving record.
- Stay informed: Laws and regulations can change. Keeping up to date with Illinois driving laws helps you avoid unintentional violations.
- Maintain insurance coverage: Ensuring you have proper insurance keeps you legal and protects your driving record from lapses that may result in penalties.
At American Auto Insurance, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean driving record. We offer competitive rates and can assist you with SR-22 insurance. Don’t let your past drive your future. Take control and give us a call at 773-286-3500 today!
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