Kansas Driving Records

Driving records in Kansas are a comprehensive account of each driver's history on the state's roads, maintained by the Kansas Department of Revenue's Division of Vehicles (KDOR-DOV). These records, considered public records under the Kansas Open Records Act, include detailed information such as traffic violations, license points, car accidents, license suspensions, or other significant incidents.

Kansas driving records are crucial for individuals and organizations. They help individuals monitor their driving history and ensure accuracy, while employers and insurance companies use them for verification, risk assessment, and compliance. Government agencies utilize these records for legal and safety purposes, maintaining road safety and regulatory standards.

However, the Drivers' Privacy Protection Act of 1994 (DPPA) regulates the appropriate use of this information. This federal law states that personal information from driving records can only be disclosed under specific exceptions. Unauthorized use of this data for unapproved purposes is illegal.

Types of Driving Records Available in Kansas

The KS DOV offers residents two main types of driving record information: the Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) and the Limited Driver's License Record. These driving records use a coding system to categorize violations. Drivers may need to refer to the DOV's driving record codes to understand the offenses.

Limited Driver's License Record

The Limited Driver’s License Record provides a snapshot of a driver’s history, including any violations, infractions, or convictions associated with their license. It may also include information about the driver’s accident history.

However, this record is more limited in scope than the comprehensive MVR. Drivers who prefer to keep their details private can opt out of having their information accessible through public searches.

Motor Vehicle Record

The MVR offers a detailed and extensive account of a driver’s history. This full abstract includes a complete record of accidents, violations, parking tickets, driving under the influence (DUI) incidents, citations, and any license revocations or suspensions.

This record offers an in-depth view of a driver’s behavior and adherence to traffic laws, making it crucial for legal matters, insurance applications, and professional licensing. Unlike the Limited Driver's License Record, the MVR delivers a comprehensive picture of a driver’s history.

Certified Vs. Non-Certified

The record types mentioned above can be obtained in certified and non-certified versions.

The certified driving record in Kansas is an official record with a seal from the DOV, suitable for legal purposes such as court cases or job applications. In contrast, the non-certified driving record is unofficial and is typically used for personal reference or informal checks.

Requesting a certified MVR costs $20, while a non-certified MVR can be obtained for $15.

Other Types of Driving Records

In addition to the Limited Driver’s License Record and the MVR, the state offers various vehicle-focused records with specific fees:

Vehicle Registration Record: $15
Vehicle Title History: $30
Certified Title History: $40
Clearance Letters: $20
Driver’s License Folders: $25
Certified Driver’s License Folders: $30

How To Request a Kansas Driving History Report?

To obtain the driving records above, drivers can choose from several convenient methods:

Online

The Limited Driver's License Record can be requested online using the search tool on the DOV’s website. Even if no record is found, a fee of $16.70 will be charged.

Also, Kansas offers eGovernment services that allow subscribers to search for MVR using desktop or mobile devices. Access to these records requires an annual subscription of $125. To become a subscriber, users can visit the Subscribers page on the Kansas official website for more information.

Information on turnaround times for record requests is not available online. For additional information or inquiries, drivers may contact the DOV at 785-296-3671 or email them at kdor_dc@ks.gov.

By Mail

For requests by mail, the individual must complete the Request for Access to Vehicle Records form and include a $15 payment as a check or money order payable to "Driver Solutions Bureau." The request should then be mailed to the address below:

Driver Solutions Bureau

P.O. Box 12021

Topeka, KS 66612-2021

In Person

For in-person requests, individuals should visit any Kansas driver licensing office. They must bring their current driver’s license for identification purposes and complete the "Request for Access to Vehicle Records" form.

Specific details regarding the turnaround time for processing in-person requests are unavailable online. Individuals interested in this information will need to contact the licensing office directly.

Uses of Kansas Driving Records

State and federal laws protect driving records in Kansas to ensure privacy and prevent misuse. The DPPA and Kansas state regulations strictly govern the permitted uses of these records. Unauthorized access or use of driving records is illegal and can result in severe penalties, fines, and potential criminal charges.

Individuals and organizations seeking to access or use Kansas driving records must have a valid, permissible purpose defined by law. These purposes typically include insurance underwriting, employment background checks for positions involving driving, legal proceedings, and law enforcement activities.

For compliance, users must review the specific provisions of the DPPA and Kansas state regulations before requesting or using driving record information. Entities handling these records should also implement proper safeguards to protect the personal information contained within them.

Those still determining whether their intended use of driving records is permissible should consult with the KDOR-DOV or seek legal counsel to avoid potential violations.

Understanding Kansas Driving Laws

The state's driving and motor vehicle regulations are primarily codified within Chapter 8 of the Kansas Statutes Annotated (KSA). This law governs various aspects of vehicle operation, registration, and licensing in Kansas.

Licensing Requirements and Penalties

Driving without a valid license in Kansas is a serious offense with significant consequences. A first-time conviction is considered a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in up to six months of jail time and a maximum fine of $1,000.

In addition to these potential legal penalties, the violation can lead to a 90-day suspension of the driver's license.

When driving in Kansas, motorists must be aware of the two distinct types of speeding laws: the "basic speeding law" and the "absolute limits."

KSA Sections 8-1557 and 8-1558 stipulate that drivers must operate their vehicles at a "reasonable and prudent" speed, given current weather, traffic, and road characteristics. This means that even if a driver is traveling within the posted speed limit, they can still be cited for speeding if their speed is deemed unsafe for the conditions.

Individuals convicted of a speeding offense typically face two main financial penalties: a fine and court costs. Court costs are generally around $25. Fines for speeding violations can range from $25 to $300 or more. The higher the speed over the limit, the greater the fine.

Reckless and Careless Driving Regulations

Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with a "wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property." This means the driver's conduct was intentional, and they understood yet disregarded the potential consequences of their actions. The penalties for reckless driving convictions in the state can be quite severe.

For a first offense, drivers face up to 90 days in jail and/or fines ranging from $25 to $500. If convicted of a second or subsequent reckless driving offense, the penalties become even more significant, with jail time of 10 days to 6 months and fines of $50 to $500.

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) Laws and Consequences

Motorists can face a DUI charge if they operate a vehicle while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a combination of substances. The legal threshold for impairment is set at a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 grams per milliliter (g/ml) or higher.

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Kansas vary depending on the number of prior offenses. For a first-time offense, drivers can face up to six months in jail and fines ranging from $750 to $1,000. A second conviction carries a jail sentence of 120 hours to 12 months and fines of $1,250 to $1,750.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Laws and Penalties

Leaving the scene of an accident, or "hit and run," is a serious offense in KS with varying penalties based on the nature of the accident.

For accidents resulting only in property damage, fleeing the scene is typically a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties for this can include fines up to $2,500, up to one year in county jail, and restitution to cover damages as per KSA Section 8-1604.

If the accident involves personal injury, the offense is generally classified as a felony. The severity of the felony depends on the extent of the injuries.

Auto Insurance Requirements and Penalties

Auto insurance in KS is primarily governed by the Kansas Insurance Code, found in Chapter 40 of the KSA.

One of the most significant aspects of the Kansas Insurance Code is the mandatory coverage requirement. All drivers in Kansas must maintain a minimum level of auto insurance, including bodily injury liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident and property damage liability coverage of $20,000 per accident.

Additionally, the state requires all auto insurance policies to include coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists, which protects in the event of an accident with a driver who has insufficient or no insurance.

Penalties for not having the required insurance include fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and potential complications with future insurance coverage.

The Point System in Kansas

Kansas does not utilize a state-based driver's license point system. Instead, it participates in the national Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS), managed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

The PDPS tracks drivers with revoked, suspended, canceled, or denied licenses and those convicted of serious traffic violations. This information is shared across state lines, influencing a driver's ability to obtain or maintain a license in Kansas.

In addition to the PDPS, Kansas has regulations regarding moving violations. If a driver accumulates three or more moving violations within 12 months, the state may suspend or revoke their license.

Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Kansas

Driving offenses in KS are categorized into criminal and civil violations, each carrying distinct legal implications and consequences.

Criminal Driving Offenses

Criminal driving offenses in Kansas are considered more severe and include charges such as DUI, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended or revoked license. These offenses can lead to significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, probation, and mandatory DUI education programs.

Civil Driving Offenses

In Kansas, civil driving offenses violate traffic laws that do not involve criminal conduct, such as speeding, failure to yield, or running a red light. These offenses typically result in fines and may impact a driver’s record and insurance rates.

While civil driving offenses generally do not involve criminal charges, accumulating multiple offenses can increase fines and potentially suspend driving privileges.

Kansas Driving Statistics and Goals

According to the 2023 Annual Performance Report by the Behavioral Safety Section of the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), traffic safety statistics over the past five years in the state present a mixed picture.

Traffic fatalities have remained relatively stable, ranging from 400 to 445 deaths annually, showing no significant reduction. Serious injuries from accidents have varied significantly, with numbers fluctuating between 1,100 and 1,826.

The KDOT has been proactive in enhancing road safety statewide. Through its Transportation Safety Section, the department employs a comprehensive strategy to reduce motor vehicle fatalities, injuries, and crashes through its Transportation Safety Section.

A key initiative is the "Drive to Zero" program, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities. This program is detailed in the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan 2020-2024, a data-driven framework created by KDOT to direct its road safety efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas Driving Records

Here are frequently asked questions about Kansas driving records:

How To Get Another Person's Driving Record?

First, the individual must get authorization or fill out the 3rd Party Consent Form (TR-301). Next, the individual can request the record online, in person, or by mail, following the same process outlined for requesting MVR.

Note that the DPPA governs the use of personal information obtained from DOV records. Under the DPPA guidelines, the individual must have the proper authority and eligibility to receive the requested information.

Can Traffic Violations Be Expunged or Sealed from Driving Records?

In Kansas, expungement seals a criminal record rather than erases it entirely. While expunged records are protected from public access and can only be viewed by authorized individuals, they remain part of the individual's history.

Certain traffic violations and infractions may be eligible for expungement after meeting specific waiting periods. Offenders can file a petition for expungement with the court after:

Three years for traffic infractions and misdemeanor traffic offenses
Five years for first-time DUI offenses
Ten years for subsequent DUI offenses

Successfully obtaining an expungement can significantly benefit individuals by limiting the visibility of past offenses and facilitating a more favorable outlook for future opportunities.

Helpful Links and Resources

Drivers in Kansas can access the following resources for more information and assistance:

A guide to reading and interpreting the MVR can be found here: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/readingdmvreport.pdf
Information on verifying eligibility to request driving records is provided here: https://www.kansas.gov/ssrv-mvr-ltd/search/records;jsessionid=69D4E14D16AC9CD22BB792FC27309A73.aptcs02-inst0?execution=e1s1
Instructions for using the Limited Driver’s License Records search tool can be found here: https://www.kansas.gov/ssrv-mvr-ltd/help

Counties in Kansas

List of Content

Types of Driving Records Available in Kansas
How To Request a Kansas Driving History Report?
Uses of Kansas Driving Records
Understanding Kansas Driving Laws
The Point System in Kansas
Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Kansas
1. Criminal Driving Offenses
2. Civil Driving Offenses
Kansas Driving Statistics and Goals
Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas Driving Records
1. How To Get Another Person's Driving Record?
2. Can Traffic Violations Be Expunged or Sealed from Driving Records?
Helpful Links and Resources