In the trucking industry, maintaining up-to-date Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) for drivers is crucial for compliance and safety. An MVR provides a detailed history of a driver’s traffic violations, license status, accidents, and other pertinent information. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), motor carriers must obtain an MVR for each driver at the time of hire. The carrier must review the MVRs of employed drivers to determine if they are qualified or disqualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle.
Where can driver records be found?
According to the FMCSA, “Driver's records can be obtained from the State motor vehicle department from which the driver's license is issued.”
How often does an MVR need to be reviewed?
The FMCSA mandates that motor carriers update and review a driver’s MVR at least once every 12 months. This ensures that any new violations, license suspensions, or other relevant changes are documented and addressed promptly. Regular MVR checks help carriers stay informed about their drivers' eligibility and driving behavior, which is vital for maintaining high safety standards. The record must be kept for 3 years.
Where should an MVR be stored?
Motor carriers are required to store MVRs in the driver's qualification file. This file must be maintained at the carrier's principal place of business and be readily accessible for inspections or audits. Proper storage of MVRs not only ensures compliance with federal regulations but also facilitates easy access to driver information when needed. A note containing the name of the reviewer and review date should be alongside the MVR in the driver qualification file.
What does an MVR look like?
Below is an example of an MVR provided by the FMCSA:
What happens if I don’t have an MVR on file?
Failing to keep an MVR on file can lead to significant consequences for motor carriers, including:
Fines and Penalties: The FMCSA can impose fines and penalties on carriers that do not comply with record-keeping requirements.
Audit and Inspection Issues: During audits or inspections, missing MVRs can result in violations being cited, negatively impacting the carrier’s safety rating.
Legal Liability: In the event of an accident or incident, lacking proper documentation can expose the carrier to legal liabilities and potential lawsuits.
Operational Disruptions: Drivers without a verified MVR may be prohibited from operating commercial motor vehicles, leading to disruptions in operations and potential loss of revenue.
Maintaining up-to-date MVRs in the driver's qualification file is not just about compliance; it's about ensuring the safety and legality of the carrier's operations. Regularly reviewing and updating MVRs helps motor carriers manage risk, improve safety, and maintain their reputation in the industry.
Start your trucking business off the right way! Learn more about our new book, How to Start, Drive, and Accelerate a Trucking Business.
Interested in being notified when more free resources or courses are available? Subscribe down below and you'll be the first to know!
Soshaul Logistics LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. It is meant to serve as a guide and information only and Soshaul Logistics, LLC does not assume responsibility for any omissions, errors, or ambiguity contained herein. Contents may not be relied upon as a substitute for the FMCSA's published regulations. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or operation.
Comments