What is a clean driving record?

Some states provide online records for immediate viewing while others may require you to mail in a form or make an in-person visit.

Be ready to provide your full name, date of birth, a valid driver's license, current address, and any request forms your DMV may require.

Your state may offer a certified or non-certified copy of your driving record. Courts accept certified copies, which are usually signed by the DMV, while non-certified copies are generally available instantly for your personal use.

Many DMV websites accept payments online. If you're visiting your DMV in person, cash or card may be required, depending on the office. If you're requesting your record by mail, your DMV may accept a check or money order.

You may receive a printed copy in person or by mail, or get instructions to print or download your driving record.

Make sure the information is accurate. Look for tickets or accidents that should've expired or fallen off and dispute any errors right away.

If an error exists on your driving record, you'll need to file a request to dispute it. Filing a dispute varies from state to state, but most require you to fill out a form through the state DMV or insurance department. Be prepared with your driver's license, vehicle information, and specific details about the error. Once you file a claim, your state will research — and hopefully correct — the error.

Taking safe driving classes may help reduce the points on your license if you live in a state with a points system. This process differs by state, and not all states offer points reduction options. For example, Delaware may give drivers a three point credit toward future points/violations if they complete an optional defensive driving course.

You may have a valid reason to contest your speeding ticket in front of a judge, like evidence that the officer clocked the wrong vehicle or no clear speed limit sign was posted.

A minor mechanical violation like a non-working turn signal, cracked windshield, or an obstructed license plate is usually called a "fix-it ticket." If you show proof that you corrected the issue, a traffic court judge or clerk may reduce or dismiss your ticket.

You may want to try to defer a violation to keep a ticket off your record or avoid points that may lead to a suspension. To defer, you will generally ask the court not to enter a conviction right away — instead, you may ask the court to postpone the judgment, give a probationary period, or dismiss or reduce your ticket (only if you meet certain requirements).

The process varies by state, and you must typically agree to conditions (such as acquiring no new tickets for a set timeframe, paying a fee, or completing community service), while staying violation-free. If you don't meet the conditions for deferment, your ticket or charge may become a conviction and go on your driving record.

If you want to reduce points, remove a ticket, lift a suspension, or change another item on your driving record, expungement may be an option depending on your state. Some minor infractions may be eligible for removal after a certain number of years, while others may fall off your record after you complete a defensive driving course.

Strict rules often exclude serious offenses like DUIs from expungement. Depending on what you're trying to expunge, you will typically contact the court, DMV, or both to get the correct forms and follow the appropriate process.