How to Check DWI Records and Expunge a DWI From Your Driving Record

When you get a DWI, all of your information is put into record. It doesn't matter if your state calls it a DWI or a DUI, they both mean driving while under the influence of either alcohol or a controlled substance. If you get arrested and charged with a DWI, you will always have an opportunity to get it wiped from your record. Many counties allow this so you are able to have a clean background check for employment and other purposes. You can also get your license back if it ends up suspended.

Many people don't listen to the judge carefully when he is reading off the list of mandatory fines that are associated with a DWI but at the end, they will always say something like ?If you do such and such within X amount of time, this can be taken off your record?. People just don't seem to listen to this so they don't realize they have the chance to keep this DWI off of public records that companies can use while conducting background checks. Even if your DWI has been on file for a few years time, you can usually have it cleared so you don't miss out on employment offers. A DWI on your record can scare off many potential employers (especially those that have driving positions) and can make you look fairly bad in the eyes of the community you live in.

Another way is to simply do it yourself. While you may have to handle a bit of paperwork, often you can get a jump start on this simply by seeing the judge who put the DWI record in the first place. If you haven't had any run-ins with the law for at least 6 months and haven't had any other substance or alcohol related offenses, the judge will usually direct you to an area in the same building to begin this process.

The easiest ways to have a DWI record expunged is to enlist the aid of an attorney who specializes in DWI cases. An experienced attorney is familiar with the judges in your area and can help you file all of the needed paperwork to make sure your charge is off your record quickly. An attorney can vary in price depending on their experience level and you may even be able to have it done for free through state sponsored programs. You will get what you pay for however so it might be worthwhile to stick with a well known attorney.

If you are unsure about someone's DWI or DUI records including your own, you can search DWI records at your county registry.