Type 2A vs Type 3A in Texas
Both are certified. The choice is about scope: a 3-year window (2A) or everything on file (3A). Some courts and employers care which.
Outbound link to dps.texas.gov · We don't process the order on this page
Type 2A and Type 3A are the two certified records in the Texas DPS catalog. Both carry the DPS seal and signature that make them admissible. The only meaningful difference is the time window covered: Type 2A reports the last three years; Type 3A reports the complete record.
Where drivers get tripped up
If a court or employer didn't specify the window, defaulting to Type 2A risks omitting older items they wanted to see.
Type 2A and Type 3A are priced similarly; the cost difference rarely justifies guessing.
Older convictions and crashes can still affect CDL employers and insurance investigations.
What each one covers
- Type 2A — Certified, 3-year window: name, DOB, license info + last 3 years of crashes and convictions, with DPS certification.
- Type 3A — Certified, complete: same fields plus every crash and conviction on file, regardless of age.
- Both are mailed by DPS with the raised seal and signature.
How to decide
- 1
Read the request literally
If the request says 'certified driving record' with no time window, default to Type 3A — it covers what 2A covers plus more.
- 2
Ask the requester if you can
Court clerks and HR contacts will often confirm which type satisfies their requirement in 30 seconds. Saves a wrong order.
- 3
When in doubt, go with 3A
Type 3A always satisfies a Type 2A requirement (it's a strict superset). The reverse is not true.
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.
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.
Quick answers
Driving records are issued by Texas DPS. Verify the current fee and requirements on the official portal before ordering.