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Short answer
Texas courts want a Type 3A driving record — the certified list of all accidents and violations. Order it online from Texas DPS through Texas.gov for $12 (including a $2 fee) with your license number, date of birth, the last 4 digits of your SSN and the audit number on your license, then print the PDF straight away. Type 2A isn't accepted for defensive driving.
When you dismiss a Texas ticket with a driving safety course, the court asks for a copy of your driving record. It shows the court that you haven’t completed another course in the 12 months before the offense (Art. 45A.356(a)(2)). The record you need is the Type 3A.
Which record you need
| Type | What it is | Price online | OK for defensive driving? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3-year history | $6.50 | No |
| 2A | Certified 3-year history | $12.00 | No |
| 3 | Complete history | $7.50 | No (not certified) |
| 3A | Certified complete history | $12.00 | Yes |
The DPS online service describes Type 3A as acceptable for a defensive driving course and Type 2A as not acceptable. Prices include a $2 Texas.gov fee.
How to order it online
- Go to the Texas DPS driver record service on Texas.gov (see the driver record FAQ).
- Have these ready:
- your Texas driver license number;
- your date of birth;
- the last 4 digits of your Social Security number (it must be on file with DPS);
- the audit number from your driver license card.
- Choose Type 3A.
- Pay by credit card — the online service takes Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express only.
- Download and print the PDF straight away.
Timing
Order the record after you finish the course or close to the date you file your documents, so it’s current. Your documents must reach the court within the 90 days it gives you.
Letting the court get it instead
Under Art. 45A.359, a court can get your record from DPS electronically and charge you a $10 fee plus the $2 portal fee. Not every court offers this — check your court’s page or ask the clerk.
Choose an approved course
Only a course approved by the state counts. Use the official list to pick any approved provider, online or in a classroom.
Frequently asked questions
What type of driving record do I need for defensive driving in Texas?
A Type 3A record — the certified list of all accidents and violations on your record. The DPS online service describes Type 3A as acceptable for a defensive driving course, and Type 2A as not acceptable.
How much is a Type 3A driving record in Texas?
$12 when ordered online from DPS through Texas.gov. That includes a $2 Texas.gov administration fee. Some course providers sell the record as an add-on for more.
How long does it take to get a Texas driving record?
Ordered online, you can print the PDF as soon as you've paid.
Do I have to get the driving record myself?
Usually, yes. But the law lets a court get the record from DPS for you instead, for a fee of $10 plus a $2 portal fee. Check whether your court offers this.
Does your Texas ticket qualify?
Answer a few questions to see whether you're likely to be eligible for a driving safety course, and work out your deadlines.
Sources
- Texas.gov / DPS — Driver record FAQ
- Texas.gov / DPS — Driver record types
- Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 45A.356 and 45A.359
This page is general information about Texas rules, not legal advice. Follow the instructions on your citation and from your court.