Record Duration • Know the Facts
How Long Does a Traffic Ticket Stay on Your Record?
Traffic tickets stay on your record for 3-10 years in Florida, depending on the violation type. But there are actually THREE different records. Here's what you need to know.
3-10
Years on DMV
3-5
Years Insurance
0
If Dismissed
The Three Records Explained
DMV Driving Record
State keeps this. 3-10 years depending on violation.
Insurance Record
Insurance companies track separately. Usually 3-5 years.
Background Checks
Employers may see convictions. Varies by company.
Dismissed Tickets
Don't appear on ANY record. Like it never happened.
How Long Each Type Stays on Your DMV Record
3
Years
Minor Violations (3 Points)
- • Speeding 1-9 MPH over
- • Red light (non-camera)
- • Stop sign
- • Improper lane change
- • Most moving violations
5
Years
Major Violations (4+ Points)
- • Speeding 10+ MPH over
- • Careless driving
- • Reckless driving
- • Passing school bus
- • Racing
10+
Years
Serious Violations (6+ Points)
- • DUI (75 years!)
- • Leaving accident scene
- • Driving on suspended (criminal)
- • Manslaughter (permanent)
💡 Important: Points expire after these durations, but the conviction itself stays on your record longer. Only dismissed tickets disappear completely.
Why Getting Your Ticket Dismissed is Best
If You Pay the Ticket (Convicted)
Stays on DMV record for 3-10 years
Insurance companies see it for 3-5 years
Employers may see it in background checks
Cannot be removed or expunged
Insurance costs $900-$2,400 extra over 3 years
If We Get It Dismissed
0 years on DMV record: Doesn't appear at all
Not reported to insurance: Rates don't go up
Background checks: Shows nothing
0 points on license: No suspension risk
Total cost: $35-$89: Save $1,000-$2,400+
💡 The difference is huge: Pay the ticket = 3-10 years on your record + insurance increases. Get it dismissed = 0 years, like it never happened. Fighting costs $35-$89 and saves you thousands.
The Three Different Records (Simple Breakdown)
1. DMV Driving Record
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DMV) keeps your official driving record. This includes all convictions and points.
- Duration: 3 years for minor, 5 years for major, 10+ years for serious
- Who sees it: Courts, police, employers (if you authorize), insurance
- Check it: Florida DMV website (free)
2. Insurance Record
Insurance companies track your violations separately. They check when you renew or change companies. This affects your rates.
- Duration: Usually 3-5 years from conviction date
- Who sees it: Any insurance company you apply to
- Impact: 20-40% rate increase for 3-5 years
3. Background Check Record
Employers, rental car companies, and others may check your driving record. They usually see convictions but not always points.
- Duration: Varies - usually 3-7 years
- Who sees it: Employers, rental companies, CDL jobs
- Shows: Convictions, not dismissed tickets
Related Guides
Keep Your Record Clean - Fight Your Ticket
Dismissed tickets don't appear on any record. 97% success rate. $35-$89.
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