Missouri driving records are maintained by the Missouri Department of Revenue and contain information about a driver's history, including traffic tickets, accidents, and suspensions. Having a clean driving record is essential for maintaining low insurance rates, avoiding license suspension, and ensuring that you are eligible for certain jobs or professional licenses. In this article, we will provide 10 tips to help you clear your Missouri driving record and maintain a good driving history.
Understanding Your Missouri Driving Record
Before you can start clearing your driving record, it’s essential to understand what information is included in your record and how it’s maintained. Your Missouri driving record will contain information about your driver’s license, traffic tickets, accidents, and any suspensions or revocations. You can request a copy of your driving record from the Missouri Department of Revenue to review the information and identify any errors or issues that need to be addressed.
Tip 1: Check Your Driving Record for Errors
One of the most critical steps in clearing your Missouri driving record is to review it for errors. You can request a copy of your driving record from the Missouri Department of Revenue and review it carefully to ensure that all the information is accurate. If you find any errors, you can contact the department to have them corrected. Common errors include incorrect traffic tickets, accident reports, and license suspension information.
Tip 2: Take a Driver Improvement Course
Taking a driver improvement course can help you clear your Missouri driving record by reducing the number of points on your license. The Missouri Department of Revenue offers a variety of driver improvement courses that are approved by the state. These courses cover topics such as traffic laws, safe driving practices, and accident prevention. By completing a driver improvement course, you can reduce the number of points on your license and avoid suspension.
Tip 3: Pay Off Outstanding Traffic Tickets
Outstanding traffic tickets can negatively impact your Missouri driving record and increase your insurance rates. Paying off outstanding traffic tickets is essential to clearing your driving record. You can pay your tickets online, by mail, or in person at a Missouri court. Make sure to keep a record of your payment, as you will need to provide proof of payment to the Missouri Department of Revenue.
| Missouri Traffic Ticket | Points Assessed |
|---|---|
| Speeding 1-5 mph over limit | 2 points |
| Speeding 6-10 mph over limit | 3 points |
| Speeding 11-15 mph over limit | 4 points |
Tip 4: Avoid Accumulating Excessive Points
Accumulating excessive points on your Missouri driver’s license can lead to suspension or revocation. The Missouri Department of Revenue assesses points for various traffic offenses, including speeding, reckless driving, and accident involvement. To avoid accumulating excessive points, it’s essential to practice safe driving habits and avoid traffic tickets. If you do receive a ticket, consider taking a driver improvement course or contesting the ticket in court.
Tip 5: Contest Traffic Tickets in Court
If you receive a traffic ticket in Missouri, you have the right to contest it in court. Contesting a traffic ticket can help reduce the number of points assessed to your license or even result in the ticket being dismissed. To contest a ticket, you will need to appear in court and present your case to the judge. Make sure to gather all relevant evidence, including witness statements, photos, and any other documentation that supports your case.
Tip 6: Consider a Plea Bargain
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or points assessed to your license. A plea bargain can help you avoid a trial and reduce the consequences of a traffic ticket. However, it’s essential to consult with an attorney before accepting a plea bargain to ensure that it’s in your best interests.
Tip 7: Keep Your Vehicle Insured
Keeping your vehicle insured is essential to maintaining a clean Missouri driving record. Uninsured vehicles can result in license suspension or revocation. Make sure to keep your vehicle insured at all times, even if you’re not driving it. If you’re having trouble affording insurance, consider shopping around for quotes or looking into low-cost insurance options.
Tip 8: Avoid Accident Involvement
Avoiding accident involvement is crucial to maintaining a clean Missouri driving record. Accident reports can result in points being assessed to your license, even if you’re not at fault. To avoid accidents, practice safe driving habits, such as following traffic laws, using seatbelts, and avoiding distractions while driving.
Tip 9: Monitor Your Credit Report
Your credit report can impact your Missouri driving record, particularly if you have unpaid traffic tickets or other debts related to your vehicle. Monitoring your credit report can help you identify any errors or issues that need to be addressed. You can request a free credit report from the three major credit reporting agencies (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) once a year.
Tip 10: Seek Professional Help
If you’re having trouble clearing your Missouri driving record, consider seeking professional help from a traffic attorney or a driving school. A traffic attorney can help you navigate the legal system and contest traffic tickets in court. A driving school can provide you with the training and education you need to become a safer, more responsible driver.
How do I request a copy of my Missouri driving record?
+You can request a copy of your Missouri driving record from the Missouri Department of Revenue by visiting their website, mailing a request, or visiting a local license office.
How many points can I accumulate on my Missouri driver’s license before it’s suspended?
+In Missouri, you can accumulate up to 8 points on your driver’s license within an 18-month period before it’s suspended. However, if you’re under 21, you can accumulate up to 4 points before your license is suspended.
Can I take a driver improvement course to reduce the number of points on my license?
+Yes, you can take a driver improvement course to reduce the number of points on your Missouri driver’s license. The course must be approved by the Missouri Department of Revenue, and you can only take it once every 3 years.
