When was the last time you checked your Illinois driving record? If you don’t remember, don’t feel too bad – you’re not alone. Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about our driving record – until we have to, whether it’s due to our insurance rates going up or even applying for a new job. The good news is that it’s fairly easy to get a certified copy of your Illinois driving history. Here’s why you should think about doing so, and how it’s done.
Why is it important to occasionally check your driving record? Your official Illinois driving record contains your entire driving history, and will list all of the violation points you may have accrued. It’s a good idea to make sure that it’s accurate and up-to-date, especially if you’ve recently taken a driving school course to have some of those points reduced. If you’re like most people, you may have gotten the occasional ticket – and even the most minor parking ticket can come back to haunt you in the form of added fines and higher insurance rates if you forget to take care of it.
Unfortunately, to get an official certified copy of your Illinois driving record, you’ll either have to do it person or by mail. To get one in person, you can visit any Illinois Driver Services facility. You’ll need to give them a completed Driving Record Abstract Request Form along with a $12 fee. (Completing the form in advance will save you some time!) To get a copy of your record by mail, you’ll need to send the completed Driving Record Abstract Request Form (along with that $12 fee) to: Secretary of State, Driver Analysis Section, 2701 S. Dirksen Pkwy., Springfield, IL 62723.
You can get additional information about the Illinois driving record request process – including how to request a driving record for your teen – at the Illinois Driving Record Abstracts webpage.