What an Employer Sees When Checking Your Driving Record
Understanding the Driving Record Check Process
When an employer checks a driving record, they aim to gather a comprehensive set of information that helps them evaluate an applicant's driving history and safety credentials. This process can significantly impact employment eligibility, especially for roles that involve operating vehicles as part of job duties. Here's what an employer typically sees:
Key Elements of a Driving Record
1. Personal Information: Personal details such as the driver's name, address, date of birth, and driver's license number are required for identification purposes.
2. License Status: The current status of the driver's license—whether it is valid, expired, suspended, or revoked—is a crucial piece of information.
3. Traffic Violations: Employers will review any traffic violations, such as speeding tickets, DUI convictions, reckless driving, and other infractions.
4. Accidents: Information about accidents the driver has been involved in, including the dates, locations, and the driver's fault status, are recorded.
5. Points System: Many states use a points system to track violations. The total number of points accumulated and the types of offenses that contributed to that total are often noted.
6. Driving Experience: The length of time the individual has held a driver's license might also be considered an indicator of driving capability and reliability.
Commercial Driving Record
For positions requiring a commercial driver's license (CDL), the report may include additional information relevant to commercial driving. This includes details about endorsements, medical qualifications, and any relevant traffic offenses.
Implications for Employment
Employers often use this information to evaluate candidates for positions that involve driving or operating vehicles. They are particularly concerned with the safety record of applicants, as an irresponsible driving record may suggest a potential for unsafe behavior in the workplace. For instance, even a single DUI conviction or multiple minor traffic violations can significantly impact an applicant's chances of being hired.
A single instance of rolling through a stop sign a few years ago may not raise significant concerns. However, multiple DUI convictions or repeated severe traffic violations may form a bad impression and jeopardize the applicant's chances of employment. This is especially true in industries where safety is paramount, such as transportation, logistics, and construction.
What an Employer Sees Is the Same as You
The information an employer sees when checking your driving record is the same as what you would see if you obtained a copy of your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). This record provides a list of all your citations and incidents for the last 3 to 7 years, and some reports may cover a longer period, such as 3 years or 5 years.
When you check your own driving record, you are making the same inquiries an employer would make. Understanding what is included in a driving record check can help you prepare and address any potential issues proactively.