Department of Motor Vehicles

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Definition - What does Department of Motor Vehicles mean?

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the name assigned to the government agency that manages vehicle and drivers' licensing and registration. In the United States, DMVs are state-run agencies. While the complete list of activities which fall under the jurisdiction of the DMV may vary by state, most DMVs are responsible for managing the state's motor voter registration programs, issuing driver's licenses and processing vehicle title transfers.

SureHire explains Department of Motor Vehicles

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is one source that an agency or employer may access when conducting a pre-employment background check. These background checks may be required as a condition of employment in some instances. To perform a full background check of a person, the screening agency or employer conducting the review will contact the DMV to request the individual's driving record. This record may also be called a motor vehicle report or driver's license check.

An individual's driving record will not only include information about past accidents and driving-related violations, but also personally identifiable information such as the individual's name, age, and address. Federal and state laws may limit what types of information can be requested as part of a background check and the timing of such requests.

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