Clean driving records basics

Celeste Polidori
April 5, 2024

How to achieve a clean driving record

A clean driving record refers to a motor vehicle record (MVR) without violations, at-fault accidents, or traffic-related convictions over a defined period. This record can result in a reduction in car insurance premiums, as a clean driving history indicates that the individual is a low-risk to insure, resulting in lower premiums.

In addition to impacting insurance premiums, a clean driving record can be crucial in jobs involving driving skills. Employers may require a clean MVR during the hiring process, as it reflects responsibility and reliability in driving. Therefore, maintaining an impeccable driving record is especially important for those working in the transportation industry.

What types of traffic violations are included in the driving record?

Some states record driving violations individually, while others use a points system. Accumulating certain points can lead to license suspension. Only violations resulting in criminal charges are reflected in the record, under the following specifications.

Moving violation: fines for speeding, running a red light, failure to use turn signals, failure to wear a seatbelt, or distracted driving, which refers to any time a driver is cited for focusing on an activity other than driving (using the phone, eating, applying makeup).

Mechanical violation: when a driver operates a vehicle with defective or missing equipment, for example, driving with a broken taillight, brakes in need of repair, missing or malfunctioning windshield wipers.

Serious violation: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, reckless driving, or leaving the scene of an accident caused by the same driver.

Driving without a valid license: driving without a valid license or with a suspended license.

How to achieve a clean driving record?

The key to maintaining a clean driving record is to comply with traffic laws and avoid violations or fines, as removing them from the record can take years. Although not all violations can be removed, most minor violations can be addressed in one of the following ways.

Taking a defensive driving course: by completing a defensive driving course, some states remove points or violations from the driving record.

Contesting the fine: if there are justified reasons behind a fine or if its validity is questioned, it is appropriate to contest it before a judge. In most cases, contesting can lead to a reduction or even dismissal of the fine, especially if the issuing police officer does not appear in court.

Immediately fixing mechanical failures: by providing evidence to the DMV that the issue has been corrected, the violation is likely to be removed from the record. However, it is essential to address the issue for road safety reasons.

Erasing the record: in states that allow it, certain violations can be erased from the driving record. If you do not qualify for automatic removal, you can request manual removal, where a panel will review the violation for possible removal.

Requesting a deferral: in some states, the option of deferral is offered, allowing certain types of violations to be postponed before they appear on the record. The process involves paying a small fee and going a year without committing another violation.

The driving record is a key factor in determining car insurance rates. Maintaining a clean record is one of the best ways to ensure low premiums, as traffic violations, accidents, and convictions can result in significant rate increases.