Drivers License Compact

Driver’s License Compact (DLC) and Its Impact

Every state has its own rules for obtaining and maintaining a driver’s license. You might think that a traffic ticket or DUI arrest in one state wouldn’t affect your driving record in another, but that's not the case. Through interstate motor vehicle information sharing through the Driver License Compact (DLC), losing your license in one state could result in losing the right to drive in your home state.  Your home state should notify you in advance of any action against your driving privileges.

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What is the Driver License Compact?

California, along with nearly 45 other states, participates in the Driver License Compact (DLC). The DLC was created to share information on serious driving offenses, like reckless driving and DUIs, across state lines. This compact ensures that driving violations are reported to all member states, regardless of where the incident occurred.

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Currently, the only states not part of the DLC are Georgia, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Tennessee. However, even these states use the National Driver Register (NDR) to track problem drivers as a condition of federal funding.

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National Driver Register (NDR)

The NDR is a database of drivers convicted of serious violations such as DUI or vehicular manslaughter, as well as those with suspended or revoked licenses. When you apply for a driver’s license in any state, the NDR is checked. If you are flagged as a problem driver, your application may be denied.

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The NDR tracks personal information like your name, date of birth, driver’s license number, and even social security number. Driving violations reported to the NDR typically remain in the system for ten years.

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Who Cannot Be Licensed?

Under the DLC, states generally will not issue a driver’s license to anyone with an active suspension or revocation due to:

• Vehicular manslaughter or negligent homicide
• DUI (drugs or alcohol) while still on probation
• Leaving the scene of an accident or failure to provide aid in an injury or fatal accident
• A felony involving the use of a motor vehicle

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Protecting Your Driving Privileges

Losing your license can make everyday life difficult, especially in states like California where driving is essential, and public transportation is not always available or convenient. If you’re facing a suspension due to a DUI or other violation in another state, it’s important to take action. A DUI attorney can represent you at your DMV hearing and court proceedings, even if you live and are licensed out of state, to help protect your driving privileges.

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If you’re dealing with a potential license suspension or revocation, contact a skilled DUI lawyer immediately to explore your options and safeguard your right to drive.