DOT Background Checks
Background Checks That Comply With DOT Regulations
When Conducting an FMCSA Background Check the Following is Required:
Motor Vehicle Records
The FMCSA requires carriers to obtain motor vehicle records from each state in which the applicant has held a CDL license or permit for the last three years. The procurement of a CDLIS report can provide the states where MVRs should be obtained. Within 30 days of employment, copies of the records must be added to the applicant’s driver qualification file. If none were collected, it must be documented that no such MVRs exist. An annual Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) is also required during the driver’s continued employment.
Previous Employment History
Each carrier is required to investigate the applicant’s past three years of work history for the following:
- Verify previous employment, which may include letters, interviews, and/or other methods of verification
- Determine if the driver has been involved in any crashes
- Gather information regarding minor accidents or incidents
Drug Testing History
The FMCSA requires employers to review the previous three years of drug history checks to determine if the driver has had any drug or alcohol-related violations. This includes whether the driver has ever tested positive on a drug or alcohol test, refused to test, or completed or failed a substance abuse rehabilitation program.
Pre-Employment Drug Test
The driver must pass a pre-employment drug test to be eligible for hire under FMCSA regulations. The DOT drug test will test for marijuana, cocaine, expanded opiates (opium and codeine derivatives), amphetamines and methamphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP).
Beyond what is required under DOT and FMCSA regulations, most organizations in the trucking industry take additional steps to reduce liability and administrative burden. Background services, such as criminal history reports, also help you make informed hiring decisions that reduce potential liability. These are also best practices for anyone who offers P&D services to homes or may transport children or individuals with disabilities.
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Need Help Implementing Dot Mandated Employee Screening Requirements?
Completing more than 2 million background items annually, DISA is one of the largest third-party background screening administrators in the industry. If your company needs help implementing DOT mandated employee screening requirements, contact DISA today!
