MVR Checks For Employers: Do’s & Don’ts
Whether you’re looking to keep your team safe, reduce liability, or maintain compliance, Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) checks are a vital tool in the hiring and monitoring process. However, like any tool, their effectiveness depends on how you use them. Here are the essential do’s and don’ts to make the most out of MVR checks for your company.
Don’t: Rely Solely on Annual Pulls
A lot can happen in a year. By the time you review a driver’s record during the annual check, they could already have accumulated violations that put your company at risk. Relying only on annual pulls leaves dangerous gaps in visibility.
Do: Monitor MVRs Continuously
The more frequently you update your MVR data, the better equipped you are to take action and correct potential issues. By using MVR Monitoring technology, you gain real-time insights into your drivers’ records, allowing you to address violations, license suspensions, or unsafe behaviors as they occur.
Read more: MVR Monitoring FAQs
Do: Use MVR Checks During the Hiring Process
Make MVR checks a standard part of your pre-employment screening. A clean driving record is often a strong indicator of responsibility and safety-conscious behavior. MVR checks help you identify candidates who align with your company’s safety policy and standards from the start.
Don’t: Overlook Consent Requirements
Before conducting an MVR check, ensure you have the candidate’s written MVR Consent Form. This is not only a legal requirement under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) but also helps ensure the hiring process is fair and transparent.
Do: Implement a Clear Policy for Driver Qualifications
Establish clear guidelines for what constitutes an acceptable driving record for your company. Use an MVR score tool to help categorize drivers as low, medium, or high-risk based on their records. This allows you to make consistent and fair hiring or retention decisions.
Don’t: Disregard State-Specific Regulations
Different states may have varying laws and regulations regarding MVR checks, including what information can be accessed. Always stay informed about the regulations in the states where your drivers are located and ensure your MVR processes align with them.
Do: Monitor Drivers Who Use Personal Vehicles for Work
If your employees drive their personal vehicles for work purposes, include them in your MVR checks. Even though the vehicle isn’t company-owned, the employee’s driving behavior still reflects on your organization and poses potential risks.
Don’t: Ignore “Yellow Flags”
Not every violation means you need to disqualify a driver, but “yellow flags” like speeding tickets or minor infractions should prompt corrective action. Consider targeted training or close monitoring to help drivers improve before issues escalate.
Do: Take Proactive Steps with High-Risk Drivers
If an MVR check flags a driver as high-risk, act swiftly. This could mean temporarily removing them from driving duties, assigning remedial training, or terminating their employment if necessary. Quick intervention can protect your company from legal and financial repercussions.
Don’t: Ignore the Bigger Picture
While MVR checks are crucial, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Combine them with other tools like continuous MVR Monitoring, PSP reports, CDLIS reports and other driver safety technology for a comprehensive approach to your drivers’ performance.
MVR checks are an essential part of maintaining a safe and compliant fleet, but they’re only as effective as the approach you take. By staying proactive, continuously monitoring, and ensuring your policies align with the latest regulations, you’ll reduce risk, enhance safety, and protect your company’s reputation.
No matter your fleet size or state requirements, we’re here to help. Explore our MVR solutions today and partner with the best in safety! Book a demo.
