Whether it’s a speeding ticket or a failure to stop at a red light, most drivers will receive a traffic violation at some point. In July 2024, for example, almost 200 citations were given in a matter of two weeks, as officers were cracking down on speeding and traffic violations, Fox 13 Tampa Bay reported.
But what happens to that ticket after it’s issued? Are traffic tickets public record, or is it just between you and the justice system?
Understanding how traffic violations are recorded and who can see them is essential for protecting your privacy, maintaining your driving record, and anticipating how these infractions may impact everything from insurance premiums to job prospects.
In this article, we’ll explore how traffic violations are documented, whether they become part of the public record, and who can legally view your driving history.
Are Traffic Tickets Public Record?
Yes, in most states, traffic violations are considered public record. This means that, generally speaking, the information is accessible by others, although the extent of access depends on local laws, the type of violation, and the record-keeping system in place.
There are two main types of traffic violations:
- Moving Violations – These occur when a traffic law is broken while the vehicle is in motion (e.g., speeding, running a red light, DUI).
- Non-Moving Violations – These include infractions like parking tickets, expired registration, or equipment violations.
Both types can become part of the public record, but moving violations are more likely to be tracked and have broader implications for insurance, employment, and legal matters.
What Information Becomes Public?
The information that may become part of the public record when you receive a traffic citation includes:
- Your name and driver’s license number
- Date and location of the violation
- Nature of the offense (e.g., speeding, DUI, failure to yield)
- Court information (if applicable)
- Case outcome (e.g., guilty, dismissed, not guilty, paid fine)
- Points added to your driving record
While personal identifiers like your Social Security number are protected, the citation itself, especially if it resulted in a conviction, is often part of searchable databases.
Public Access Traffic Tickets
Many interested parties can access your traffic ticket records. Surprised to hear that? Here they are, so you can prepare yourself for traffic ticket disclosure:
1. Insurance Companies
Perhaps the most common and impactful access to your driving history comes from insurance companies. They routinely check your driving record to assess your risk level and set premiums accordingly.
A single speeding ticket may raise your rates slightly, but multiple violations, or serious infractions like DUIs, can result in significant increases or even denial of coverage.
2. Employers (Especially in Driving-Related Jobs)
Employers, particularly those hiring for jobs involving vehicle operation (e.g., delivery drivers, commercial truck drivers, sales reps), often review applicants’ driving histories. A record with multiple violations could disqualify you from consideration.
Some employers also perform background checks that include motor vehicle records (MVRs), especially for government, law enforcement, or security positions.
3. Law Enforcement and the Courts
Law enforcement officers and court officials have full access to your driving record, including both recent and past violations. This information may influence:
- Whether you’re cited or warned during a traffic stop
- Sentencing in court
- Eligibility for traffic school or diversion programs
4. Attorneys and Legal Investigators
In legal cases, especially personal injury, accident, or liability claims, attorneys may request your driving record to evaluate patterns of behavior or support claims. This is often done through formal record requests or discovery processes.
5. The General Public (To a Limited Extent)
In some states, traffic court cases and violations are accessible to the public through online court databases. However, this access is usually limited:
- You may need to know the individual’s name or case number.
- Some jurisdictions require fees or formal requests.
- Access may be limited to recent cases.
For example, someone might be able to look up your citation if they know when and where it occurred, but they won’t be able to see your entire driving history without legal justification.
What About Expungement or Sealing of Records?
While traffic violations are often public, not all records are permanent. Some infractions can eventually be removed or sealed, especially if:
- You successfully completed traffic school.
- Your driving record remains clean for a certain number of years.
- You petition the court for expungement (varies by state and type of offense).
More serious violations, like DUIs, are often harder to remove and may remain on your record for 5 to 10 years or more, depending on the state.
How to Check Your Own Driving Record
It’s a good idea to periodically check your driving record to ensure accuracy and be aware of what others might see. You can typically obtain a copy through:
- Your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent
- Online driving record request services
- Insurance agents or brokers (some provide free reports)
Be prepared to pay a small fee and provide identification. When viewing traffic citations, look for:
- Errors in dates, violations, or outcomes
- Old violations that should have expired
- Incorrect point totals
If you spot inaccuracies, contact the issuing court or DMV to correct them.
How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Record?
This varies by state and type of violation. Common timeframes include:
- 3 to 5 years – For minor moving violations like speeding or failing to yield
- 5 to 10 years – For more serious infractions like reckless driving
- 10+ years or permanent – For DUIs or multiple offenses
Insurance companies may consider violations for 3 to 5 years when setting premiums, even if they no longer appear on your official driving record.
Driving Record Privacy – There’s No Such Thing
Now you know the answer to the question, “Are traffic tickets public record?”
Pay attention to your tickets, act quickly, and check your driving history regularly to ensure your public record reflects the safe, responsible driver you strive to be.
At RHINO Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping clients from start to finish, ensuring that their records stay squeaky clean and they can go back to their daily routine without any delays. Don’t hesitate to contact our team as soon as you receive a traffic violation, especially if you are a professional driver.
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RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.
Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at (844) RHINO-77.
