Get a driver's abstract

Overview

There are different ways you can apply for an Alberta driver's abstract, depending on your situation.

The documents you need to provide are different depending on how you want to obtain your abstract. You may also request an abstract for a minor if you’re their legal parent or guardian.

The release of information from a driver abstract is regulated by the Access to Motor Vehicle Information Regulation (AMVIR).

Types of driver's abstracts

There are 2 types of abstracts that can be requested for 3, 5 or 10 year periods:

Standard Driver's Abstract

A Standard Driver's Abstract provides information from an individual’s driving record, including:

• driver information (name, address, licence number and issue date, etc.)
• driver’s appearance (height, weight, sex, etc.)
• current status of the driver's licence
• conviction information
• demerit points
• suspensions.

The driver's abstract doesn’t show the individual's driving experience or the date first licensed.

Commercial Driver's Abstract

A Commercial Driver's Abstract allows for employers to assess safety risks associated with a driver prior to hiring them. It provides most of the same information as the Standard Driver's Abstract plus information about Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) inspections.

However, the Commercial Driver's Abstract does not include information about the driver’s appearance.

For detailed information contact a registry agent for assistance.

How to order

You can request a driver's abstract online or in person at a registry agent.

Online

A verified Alberta.ca Account is required for online orders. If you do not already have a verified Alberta.ca Account, allow 10 business days after signing up for an account to receive your activation code in the mail and finalize your verification before completing your online order.

From a registry agent

Step 1. Fill out an application

Request for Personal Driving and Motor Vehicle Information

Step 2. Drop off the application

Bring your application to a registry agent, along with an accepted photo ID. Sign and date the form in front of the registry agent clerk.

How to order if you are outside Alberta

You can request a driver's abstract while outside Alberta.

Step 1. Fill out an application

Notarized Request for Personal Driving and Motor Vehicle Information

Do not sign the form until you are at a Notary Public (see Step 2).

Step 2. Go to a Notary Public

A Notary Public needs to verify your identity, and notarize the application form and the copy of accepted photo ID:

• Alberta or Canadian Driver’s Licence
• Alberta Identification Card
• Citizenship Card
• Immigration Card
• Naturalization Card
• Permanent Resident Card
• Passport

You must sign the form in front of the Notary Public.

Step 3. Send the application

Send the following documents to an Alberta registry agent:

• a signed and notarized application form
• a notarized copy of accepted photo ID
• any fees required by the registry agent

The abstract will be returned to you by registered mail or courier at the address shown in the application. Contact the registry agent for specific details.

Authorizing an individual to request your abstract on your behalf

If you can’t order online or go to a registry agent to request your abstract, you can ask someone who is personally known to you, who you trust and agrees to represent you to request your driver's abstract.

Step 1. Fill out an application form

You need to fill out:

Driver's Abstract Consent

• check box 5(1)(a)
• only fill out Part 1

Your representative needs to fill out:

Driver's Abstract Statement of Intent

They will need to bring accepted photo ID.

Step 2. Send application form

You can send the completed form directly to your representative or to the registry agent.

Your representative must apply in person at the registry agent office, and must have acceptable photo ID. They must sign and date the Driver's Abstract Statement of Intent form in front of a registry agent clerk, who will also sign the form as a witness.

Requesting a copy of a Minor's Abstract

A parent or legal guardian may apply for a person who is under 18 years of age and who is not self-supporting or married.

Step 1. Fill out an application form

You need to fill out:

Driver's Abstract Statement of Intent

• Check box 5(1)(b)(iv)

You will need to provide accepted photo ID.

Step 2. Submit application form

Bring your application to a registry agent, along with an accepted form of ID. Sign and date the form in front of the registry agent clerk. The registry agent clerk will also sign as a witness.

Other types of requests

Other parties may be authorized to request your driver’s abstract, such as an employer, prospective employer, or a lawyer, as long as they have your valid written consent.

For more information, see requesting protected motor vehicle data.