Ohio Driving Records

In Ohio, driving records are an important source of information for individuals and businesses. These records frequently influence decisions regarding insurance, employment, and legal issues.

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is the state agency responsible for maintaining these driving records. The BMV collects and stores data such as license details, complete driving history, and any infractions or suspensions.

The state’s driving record policy aims to promote road safety and accountability among motorists. Ohio Revised Code (ORC) section 4501.27 regulates public access to driving records. However, it also comes with certain restrictions to safeguard personal privacy.

Types of Driving Records Available in Ohio

Ohio offers various types of driving records, each designed to meet different needs based on the length of history and the level of detail required. Here’s an overview of the options:

Three-Year Driving Record Abstract

This record covers the past three years and includes details on accidents, moving violations, and any actions that led to the suspension, revocation, or disqualification of a driver’s license.

Two-Year Unofficial Driving Record Copy

Points on a driver’s license are considered for suspension only within two years. This record provides a summary of driving history from the past two years, making it useful for reviewing recent driving behavior.

Complete Driving Record History

This record provides a comprehensive view of driving history, including all available details beyond the two years. It provides a full account of all driving activity, as points remain on the record indefinitely.

Certified vs. Non-Certified Records

The distinction between certified and non-certified driving records primarily lies in their level of authenticity and legal acceptance.

Certified records come with an official seal or signature, which makes them suitable for legal and official uses. This official validation typically results in a higher cost for these records.

On the other hand, non-certified records lack the formal seal and are less expensive, so they are ideal for personal reference or informal purposes. While non-certified records still provide valuable information, they may not be accepted in contexts that require official documentation.

Costs Associated With Obtaining Records

The cost for each type of driving record is $5. However, this fee is subject to change. It is best to consult the Ohio BMV website for the most current pricing.

How To Request an Ohio Driving History Report?

Ohio drivers and authorized entities have several options for obtaining driving history reports. Here’s how each method works:

Online Process

To request a driving history report online, individuals must visit Ohio BMV’s Online Services. From there, they should proceed with the following steps:

Go to the MyBMV page.
Provide a User ID or account number and the driver’s license or state ID number.
Provide details of their preferred payment method, be it a credit or debit card.
View or download the record after successful payment.

In-Person Process

To obtain a driving history report in person:

The applicant must head to a local Deputy Registrar License Agency or Ohio BMV office.
They must bring a valid driver’s license or state ID. If the license is unavailable, additional identification may be required.
Payments can be made using cash, check, or credit/debit card.

Mail-In Process

For those opting to use mail:

Applicants must complete the Record Request form, which is available on the Ohio BMV website or at a BMV office.
Submit the form along with a check or money order for payment.
The completed form and payment should be mailed to this address:

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Attn: Records Request
P.O. Box 16520
Columbus, Ohio 43216-6520

Uses of Ohio Driving Records

Ohio driving records are utilized for various purposes by individuals and authorized entities. The following uses are permitted under state law:

Employment screening to evaluate risk profiles
Insurance underwriting to insurance premiums
Evidence in legal proceedings
Personal record

Ohio adheres to the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), which strictly regulates the use of driving records. As such, accessing someone else's driving record without permission is prohibited.

Driving records cannot be used for commercial solicitation or political campaigning. All uses of these records must comply with state privacy regulations and respect individual rights.

Understanding Ohio Driving Laws

Ohio’s driving laws are designed to ensure road safety and regulate vehicle operation. Here is an overview of key regulations every driver in Ohio should know:

Speed Limits

In Ohio, speed limits vary by location. In residential areas, the maximum speed limit is generally 25 miles per hour (mph) unless otherwise posted. On highways, the standard limit is 65 mph, though some areas allow speeds up to 70 mph. Meanwhile, the speed limit is reduced to 20 mph during school hours in school zones to protect children.

Penalties for speeding can vary based on the severity of the violation. Minor speeding infractions typically result in fines, while more serious offenses—such as significantly exceeding the speed limit or speeding in school zones—can lead to higher fines and points on driving records.

Seat Belt Law

Seat belt use is mandatory for all vehicle occupants in Ohio. Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Children under eight years old must be in a booster seat or another appropriate child safety seat unless they are 4'9" or taller. Children aged eight to 15 must use a seat belt if they are not in a car seat.

Failure to follow these rules can result in a citation.

Operating a Vehicle While Impaired (OVI)

In accordance with ORC Section 4511.19, drivers aged 21 and older must have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below 0.08%. If a driver’s BAC is 0.08% or higher, or if they have high levels of narcotics in their system, they can be charged with an OVI.

OVI offenses can result in fines, license suspension, and imprisonment, with the severity of penalties depending on the circumstances and whether it is a repeat offense.

Distracted Driving

Ohio law treats distracted driving as a primary traffic offense, allowing for immediate traffic stops for violations.

The following actions are prohibited while driving:

Text messaging
Voice or video calls
Using social media
Gaming
Taking videos

Drivers can use a hands-free device to make or receive calls. They can also use audio streaming and navigation apps as long as they are set up before driving or activated with a single swipe touch. The exception does not apply to underage drivers.

Right-of-Way Law

Ohio drivers must stay alert and share the road with other motorists. The state’s traffic laws provide clear guidance on right-of-way rules:

Always yield to pedestrians.
The driver on the right has the right of way at a four-way stop.
A dark traffic or broken traffic light at an intersection is as good as a four-way stop.
Right turns on red are allowed unless posted otherwise.
Emergency vehicles with sirens and lights always have the right-of-way. Drivers must yield while also remaining safe.

License Requirements

Ohio residents must be at least 16 years old to apply for a provisional license and 18 years old for a full license. The process involves passing a written test, a vision exam, and a driving test. However, if an applicant holds a valid out-of-state license, the road test may be waived.

Residents are also required to register their vehicles within 30 days. The registration process requires applicants to present proof of identity, Ohio residency, and valid vehicle insurance.

Requirements for New Residents

New residents must obtain an Ohio driver’s license within 30 days of moving to the state. They must surrender their previous out-of-state license and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security Number (SSN).

Moreover, new residents must register their vehicles with the Ohio BMV within 30 days of relocating. To do so, applicants must prepare proof of vehicle ownership, insurance, and payment of registration fees.

Requirements for Foreign Drivers

Foreign drivers planning to stay in Ohio for an extended period should apply for a driver’s license. They must present their foreign driver’s license, proof of identity, proof of Ohio residency, and SSN or proof of ineligibility. They must also pass the written, vision, and driving tests.

For short visits, foreign drivers can legally drive in the state with their valid foreign driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, they must process the permit in their home country.

The Points System in Ohio

The Ohio point system is designed to track and penalize drivers who commit traffic violations. When a driver is convicted of certain infractions, points are assigned to their driving record.

Points remain on a driver’s record for two years from the violation date. If a driver accumulates 12 or more points within two years, their license will be automatically suspended. This measure prevents dangerous driving behaviors by removing high-risk drivers from state roads.

Drivers may need to participate in a remedial driving course to reduce points on their record. This system allows offenders to improve their driving habits while facing appropriate penalties for repeated offenses.

However, drivers can only take the remedial driving course once every three years and up to five times in their lifetime. Because of these restrictions, the course can only remove a maximum of two points from their driving record within any two-year period.

Points Assignment

Traffic violations are assigned points based on their severity. Here is an overview of the points typically assigned to various offenses:

Speeding violations: 2 to 6 points
Reckless operation: 4 points
Operating a vehicle without reasonable control: 2 points
OVI: 6 points
Failure to yield: 2 points
Disregarding a traffic control device: 2 points
Driving without a license: 2 points
Leaving the scene of an accident: 6 points
Failure to stop for a school bus: 2 points
Driving without insurance: 2 points
Driving with a suspended license: 6 points
Overtaking and passing a school bus: 2 points

Point assignments can also vary depending on the exact nature of the violation and any related circumstances. For detailed information, drivers can refer to the Ohio BMV.

Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Ohio

In Ohio, driving offenses are categorized as criminal or civil, each with its consequences and legal ramifications.

Criminal Driving Offenses

Criminal driving offenses are serious violations and are generally classified as felonies or misdemeanors. Major criminal driving offenses include:

OVI: mandatory alcohol education programs and ignition interlock device installation for repeat offenders
Reckless driving: usually considered a misdemeanor but can escalate to a felony if it leads to significant harm or damage
Hit-and-run: can result in felony charges depending on the severity of the incident
Driving without a license: treated as a criminal charge, especially if the driver has a history of similar offenses
Driving under suspension: severe criminal charge and increased fees

Civil Driving Offenses

Civil driving offenses, or traffic infractions, are less severe and typically result in fines and points on the driver's record. Common civil offenses include:

Speeding
Improper turns
Failing to yield
Running a red light
Illegal parking
Driving without insurance

Ohio Driving Statistics and Goals

Traffic safety is a major focus in Ohio, reflecting trends seen nationwide. From 2018 to 2023, the Ohio State Highway Patrol recorded 104,845 arrests for OVI, about 30% of which involved repeat offenders. In 2022, distracted driving led to 10,266 crashes, including seven fatalities and 45 serious injuries.

The Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) targets high-risk areas by increasing public awareness of impaired and distracted driving. It has also committed to enhancing road infrastructure and stricter traffic law enforcement. Using data-driven approaches, the agency is working to reduce traffic-related injuries, ultimately aiming for zero road fatalities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Driving Records

The following are some common questions concerning drivers in the state:

Who Can Request a Driving Record?

Driving records can be requested by individuals and authorized entities such as employers, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies. Individuals must provide proper identification, while authorized entities must have a legitimate reason for accessing someone else's driving history.

What Should an Individual Do if They Find an Error in Their Driving Record?

If someone finds an error in their Ohio driving record, they should promptly contact the BMV. They will need to provide supporting documentation for the BMV to review.

Does Ohio Have an Expungement Law for Traffic Violations?

Ohio does not have a specific expungement law for most traffic violations. However, certain minor traffic offenses may be eligible for expungement or sealing under Ohio’s general criminal record sealing laws, depending on the nature of the offense and the individual's record.

Helpful Links and Resources

Here are some useful links for Ohio drivers and accessing driving records:

Traffic crash reports and data for Ohio: https://publicsafety.ohio.gov/what-we-do/crash-reports
Ohio Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws: https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/publicsafety.ohio.gov/hsy7607.pdf
Guide to reinstatement fees and amnesty in the state: https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/susp-fees-amnesty.aspx
Ohio Environmental Protection Agency information: https://www.epa.ohio.gov/dapc/mobile.aspx

Counties in Ohio

List of Content

Types of Driving Records Available in Ohio
How To Request an Ohio Driving History Report?
Uses of Ohio Driving Records
Understanding Ohio Driving Laws
The Points System in Ohio
1. Points Assignment
Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Ohio
1. Criminal Driving Offenses
2. Civil Driving Offenses
Ohio Driving Statistics and Goals
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Driving Records
Helpful Links and Resources