Have you racked up a few points on your driving record? It's important to keep track of your offenses and points because they can lead to a license suspension. However, you may be able to remove a few points before the two-year period ends. Read on to learn more about how to get your Ohio driving record and how to keep it in good shape.
How to Get Your Ohio Driving Record
In Ohio, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has your driving records on file. However, there are multiple types of driving records, and they require different request methods. Here's a look at the various types and how to get them.
Three-Year Driving Record Abstract
This driving record includes reports of accidents, moving violation convictions, and other actions that caused a suspension, revocation, or disqualification of your driver's license over the preceding three years.
You can request this record:
In-person with a Deputy Registrar License Agency (DR) near you.
Via mail by completing and mailing the Record Request and a $5.00 payment.
Online via the Ohio BMV website.
Two-Year Unofficial Driving Record Copy
Being that points only count towards a license suspension for two years in Ohio, you may only be interested in seeing the last two years of your driving history. In that case, you may opt for this driving record.
You can request or view it online through the Ohio BMV website.
Complete Driving Record History
If you need a record of your entire driving history (beyond two or three years), this is the record you'll need. While points only count toward a license suspension for two years, they stay on your record forever.
You can request it via mail by completing the Record Request and mailing it along with a $5.00 payment.
How Many Points Result in a Suspension of Your Ohio Driver's License?
In Ohio, if you receive 12 points within a two-year period, you will face a suspension of your driver's license. Here's a look at some of the ways you can end up with points:
6 points: Drag racing, driving with a suspended license, DUI, hit-and-run, or fleeing from a police officer.
4 points: If you drive 30 mph or more over the speed limit.
2 points: If you drive more than 10 mph over the speed limit in an area with a 55 mph speed limit or higher, or 5 mph over the speed limit in any other area.
2 points: Making an illegal turn, running a red light, or running a stop sign.
While you can appeal the suspension, you'll need to do so before the date of suspension listed on the BMV letter.
How Can I Remove Points From My Ohio Driving Record?
In Ohio, you can have two points removed from your driving record by enrolling in a remedial driving instruction course from a court-approved provider like I Drive Safely. However, you'll need to first contact the BMV to confirm you are eligible to dismiss the points through a course.
Generally, you'll need to have less than 12 points on your record, you can't have taken a course within the last three years, and you can only reduce points five times in your life. If you qualify, you can enroll, complete your course online, and submit the certificate of completion to the court or BMV to have the points removed
Ready to get started? Enroll in I Drive Safely's online defensive driving course today!
