Governmental Access to DMV Records
The release of information from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is governed by Va. Code §46.2-208 through 214. This statute stipulates that all DMV records are privileged and are not available to the general public. DMV may only release driver, vehicle and personal information from our records under the conditions specified in the statutes mentioned above.
The information obtained can be used only for the purpose for which it was originally released. Agencies cannot share DMV records or the information contained in DMV records. For example, Commissioners of the Revenue access our records for the assessment of personal property tax on motor vehicles. If another governmental entity in the same locality, such as the voter registrar, would like to use DMV information he or she must apply separately instead of having the Commissioner of the Revenue provide the needed records.
If you are not sure if you are eligible to gain access to DMV records, please e-mail us. Describe the kind of access that you are interested in and we can let you know if you are eligible before you go any further.
Local government entities may apply for access to DMV records by downloading an Information Use Agreement Application (US531A). If you would prefer to receive the Information Use Agreement application in the mail, contact us at (804) 497-7155. The application requests specific information about your DMV records access, including the purpose(s) of your access, your security measures to ensure protection of your records, and the names of authorized users. DMV must approve your application before you can gain access to DMV records.
Access is available:
- Electronically
- Walk-in
- Letter
