Driver Qualification Files Online

 A driver must not drive a CMV unless an application for employment is completed and signed. See 49 CFR 391.21 for a list of information that must be included as part of the application, and view example application for employment. Non-CDL drivers must list any employer they have worked for in the last three years. CDL drivers must do the same and must also list any employer for whom they operated a CMV in the last 10 years 

Motor carriers must investigate, document, and retain all drivers’ previous employment safety performance history for the three years immediately prior to the driver joining a new employer. See 49 CFR 391.23. All files related to the employee’s safety performance history and inquiries to prior employers must be retained for the length of employment and for three years thereafter. See 49 CFR 391.53. 

 At the time of application, carriers must contact all States where each driver holds, or has held in the past 3 years, a motor vehicle operator's license or permit to obtain the driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) (49 CFR 391.23(a)(1) and (b)). 

 Drivers must not drive a CMV until they have completed a road test and are issued a certificate (49 CFR 391.31). 

 A driver must pass a medical examination and be issued a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (49 CFR 391.41). For non-CDL holders, the carrier must keep a copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate in the driver’s qualification file. 

 A driver must pass a medical examination and be issued a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (49 CFR 391.41). For non-CDL holders, the carrier must keep a copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate in the driver’s qualification file. 

 Employers must ask potential employees if they have tested positive, or refused to test, on any pre-employment drug or alcohol test where the employee applied for, but did not obtain, safety-sensitive transportation work. See 49 CFR 391.23(e), and a sample Pre-employment Drug or Alcohol Test questionnaire.