One of the biggest risks to your business isn’t what’s happening on the road, it’s who you trust to be behind the wheel. A commonly overlooked but highly effective way to reduce that risk is by regularly reviewing Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) for every commercial driver you employ. MVRs offer a detailed look at a driver’s history, including accidents, traffic violations, and license status, making them a critical component of any well-rounded fleet safety program.
What Are MVRs and Why Do They Matter?
MVRs are reports compiled by each state’s department of motor vehicles that include a driver’s:
- Moving violations
- DUI offenses
- License status (including suspensions or revocations)
- Chargeable accidents
- Accumulated points
- Vehicular crimes
Not only are MVRs used by insurance carriers to assess risk, but they are also required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as part of a commercial driver’s Driver Qualification (DQ) file. If you don’t review them regularly, you may be unknowingly exposing your company to insurance disqualification, legal liability, or preventable accidents.
What the FMCSA Requires
- MVRs must be obtained within 30 days of hiring a new driver.
- You must obtain MVRs from every state where the driver has held a license in the last three years.
- MVRs must be updated and reviewed annually.
- You must document who reviewed each MVR and maintain a copy in the DQ file.
How to Use MVRs Effectively
- Establish a clear MVR policy that outlines acceptable driving history.
- Disqualify drivers with serious offenses or frequent violations.
- Use third-party services or state agencies to obtain records, never rely on self-reported MVRs.
- Consider MVR monitoring services for real-time updates on driving activity.
By staying proactive and consistent, you can ensure that your drivers are qualified, your company stays compliant, and your insurance premiums stay under control.
Need help creating an MVR policy or improving fleet risk management? Contact McHugh Insurance Group today.