Doesn't my insurance company already pull my driving record?

Yes — auto insurers typically run their own MVR queries during underwriting. The reason they sometimes ask you for one too is for documented evidence in your underwriting file, especially after a violation or for SR-22 cases.

Will my insurance rates go up because I ordered a record?

No. Ordering your own driving record is not reported to insurers and doesn't affect premiums.

What's an SR-22 and why does it sometimes require a certified record?

An SR-22 is a state filing by your insurer attesting you carry minimum required coverage — usually triggered by a major violation. Some reinstatement steps explicitly require submitting a certified driving record alongside the SR-22.

Insurance

Driving Record for Insurance in Texas

For a quote, Type 2 is usually enough. For SR-22 or post-violation reinstatement, expect to need Type 3A.

Order from Texas DPS What is a Type 3A?

Outbound link to dps.texas.gov · We don't process the order on this page

Most Texas insurance shops can quote you with an uncertified Type 2 — three years of crashes and convictions, downloaded immediately. Where it changes is post-violation reinstatement, SR-22 filings, and certain underwriting reviews — those typically require certification, which means Type 3A.

Common pitfalls

Where drivers get tripped up

Insurance carriers can pull your record themselves — but underwriters often require you to provide a certified copy too.
SR-22 reinstatements after a DUI or no-insurance violation are slower if the certified copy is delayed.
Some non-standard insurers price every quote differently if you do or don't provide certified history.

When Type 2 is enough

Shopping for a new policy or comparing quotes.
Re-quoting an existing policy at renewal.
Confirming what your insurer can already see (carriers pull DPS data themselves).

When Type 3A becomes the better choice

SR-22 filing requirements after a major violation.
Reinstatement after a license suspension.
Non-standard insurance underwriting following a DUI, accident, or claim history review.
Any time the insurer or DPS form explicitly says 'certified driving record'.

Tip: don't pay twice

If the quote process only needs Type 2, don't pre-emptively order Type 3A 'just in case'. Wait until the underwriter explicitly requests certification — most never will.

Continue to DPS portal

You'll be taken to dps.texas.gov to complete the order

Got a Texas ticket? Defensive driving can dismiss most moving violations and keep them off your record entirely.

Check eligibility

Important disclaimer

DefensiveDrivingPlus is not affiliated with Texas DPS and does not issue driving records. The Type 3A is purchased directly from the Texas Department of Public Safety. We provide informational content and link to the official DPS portal. Fees, processing times, and requirements are set by DPS and may change.

FAQ

Quick answers

Related guides

Driving records are issued by Texas DPS. Verify the current fee and requirements on the official portal before ordering.

Order from Texas DPS