Introduction

If you’ve heard someone talk about a Type 3A driving record, you might wonder what it’s all about — and why it matters. In Texas, your driving record tells a lot about your past behavior on the road: tickets, license status, accidents, and more. A Type 3A driving record is one of the most important versions, especially when dealing with courts, insurance companies, or registering for certain driving programs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what a Type 3A driving record is, how it differs from other record types, how to obtain it, and why you should keep it clean. Get to the point — driving attentively saves your life.

After all, there are smart and efficient ways to manage your time and driving patterns while still maintaining the best of your driving record. Many drivers overlook that even one unpaid or unnoticed ticket — especially a speeding one — can increase insurance premiums and impact their driving record. And this makes you, as a driver, unqualified for some specific insurance policy offers.

What Is a Type 3A Driving Record?

A Type 3A driving record (also called a certified driving record) is an official version of your driving history issued by the Texas DPS. Unlike non-certified printouts that show only limited information, the Type 3A driving record is accepted by courts, law enforcement, and insurance companies because it contains complete details.

Here’s what typically appears on a DPS driving record in Texas under the Type 3A tier:

• The official status of your driving license in Texas.

• Accidents and crash records

• Points and violation history

• Driving history across a span of years (often up to 3–5 years or more)

• All traffic violations (tickets, speeding, red light, etc.

Because of its reliability, all authorities can depend on your certified driving record

It also provides employers proof of your safe driving habits — a key requirement for jobs involving driving. A certified driving record is proof of your accountability, and it shows that you are willing to share a complete picture regarding your driving record.

Why Type 3A Matters More Than Other Records

You may see mentions of DPS driving record Texas or “non-certified” records, but the key difference lies in acceptance and use. A non-certified record might show your name and license status, but it might not carry all violations or be accepted by courts.

Here’s why you especially need Type 3A:

• Court use: If you’re trying to dismiss a ticket using a TDLR-Approved Defensive Driving Course, many courts require that you submit a Type 3A certified record.

• Insurance reasons: Insurers often check certified records to validate your claims or offer discounts.

• Legal matters: For license reinstatement or disputes, only a certified record is considered official.

So if you see a record titled “Type 3” or “Basic Record,” it might be informative — but it won’t always serve your legal needs. Going for Type 3A driving record ensures your document is fully usable in official matters.

Also, having a complete record helps avoid misunderstandings in legal situations. Some minor infractions can appear differently in non-certified reports, leading to unnecessary confusion. A Type 3A record removes these risks entirely.

How to Order a Type 3A Certified Driving Record

Obtaining your Type 3A driving record in Texas is straightforward:

1. Go to the Texas DPS website: Visit the official DPS (Department of Public Safety) site and find the “Driver Records” section.

2. Select “Order Driving Record”: Choose the option for certified records (Type 3A).

3. Enter your personal info: You’ll need your driver’s license number, date of birth, and sometimes the last four digits of your Social Security number.

4. Pay the fee: There is a small fee for obtaining certified records. Pay via card.

5. Download or receive it: Once processed, you’ll be able to get a PDF version or a hard copy through mail.

Remember, only the certified copy is valid for official use.

Need your certified record quickly? Visit Drive Defensively Texas and order your Type 3A driving record today — reliable, official, and fast!

How Often Should You Check Your Driving Record?

It is rational to review it once a year or periodically after every citation or incident. 

• The driving record keeps you informed if any fraudulent record or infractions is recorded on your driving record.

• You’ll know if mistakes or infractions have been recorded.

• You catch errors or fraudulent entries early.

• It helps you plan ahead for insurance or legal matters.

Having a Type 3A driving record provides your history with a complete record of where your active status currently stands. It can be beneficial in adjusting your driving habits and in managing records in a better way.

Keeping Your Type 3A Record Clean

Having a clean, well-maintained driving record can help you in many ways:

• Better insurance rates

• More credibility in court

• Greater flexibility in renewing or reinstating your license

• Safer driving habits

Here are tips to keep it clean:

• Always obey traffic laws. Do not speed or drive recklessly.

• Address citations quickly. Take action on them now.

• Drive distraction-free — avoid texting, calls, or any risky behavior. 

Consistent and safe driving habits mentioned above will provide the peace of mind that you remember and save your clean record. 

Even completing short refresher courses or reviewing safe driving tips periodically can show that you take responsibility seriously — and this could positively influence insurance premiums or court reviews.

What Happens After You Get Your Type 3A Record

Once you’ve received your Type 3A driving record, you can use it for:

• Court submission — when pursuing ticket dismissal.

• Showing proof to insurance companies — for discounts or claims.

• Legal or employment processes — where your driving history matters.

Keep it in a safe place (digital copy + print) so you’re ready any time it’s required.
Make sure your next defensive driving or legal step goes smoothly — secure your Type 3A driving record now at Drive Defensively Texas and stay prepared!

Conclusion

Your Type 3A driving record is more than just paperwork — it’s your official proof on the road.If you need to get a ticket removed, take advantage of insurance benefits, or just make sure your driving record is correct, your certified driving record is what you need. Knowing what your record contains, how to obtain it, and how to maintain it current helps you control your driving record. A clean driving record will give you confidence and peace of mind. It goes beyond documentation. It goes to awareness, safety, and self-protection whenever you are driving. A Type 3A record is a tool that ensures you are ready for any situation, from insurance checks to legal matters, keeping you prepared and in control of your driving future.

At Drive Defensively Texas, we believe in empowering drivers with knowledge and tools that make a real difference. Use your DPS driving record in Texas wisely, keep your record clean, and always drive with confidence.

Ready to take charge of your driving record? Visit Drive Defensively Texas to order your Type 3A driving record today — fast, official, and reliable! Sign Up Now.