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When it comes to hiring drivers for commercial vehicles, the Driver Qualification form is an essential tool that helps employers assess the qualifications and safety records of potential employees. This comprehensive document includes a variety of sections designed to gather crucial information about the applicant's driving history, medical fitness, and employment background. Key elements of the form include the Driver Application for Employment, inquiries to previous employers and state agencies, and a Medical Examiner's Certificate, which ensures that the driver meets health requirements. Additionally, the form requires a record of the driver’s road test, certifications, and annual reviews of driving records. Employers also need to verify any traffic violations and accidents over the last three years, ensuring a thorough understanding of the candidate's driving behavior. The form emphasizes the importance of transparency and accuracy, as drivers have the right to review and correct any information provided by previous employers. Ultimately, the Driver Qualification form serves as a vital step in promoting safety and accountability within the transportation industry.

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DRIVER QUALIFICATION FILE

CHECKLIST

1.

 

DRIVER APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT

391.21

2.

 

INQUIRY TO PREVIOUS EMPLOYERS (3 YEARS)

391.23(a)(2) & (c)

3.

 

INQUIRY TO STATE AGENCIES

391.23(a)(1) & (b)

4.

 

MEDICAL EXAMINER’S CERTIFICATE*

391.43

 

 

(MEDICAL WAIVER, IF ISSUED)

 

5.

 

DRIVER’S ROAD TEST

391.31

6.

 

CERTIFICATION OF ROAD TEST*

391.31

7.

 

ANNUAL DRIVER’S CERTIFICATE OF VIOLATIONS

391.27

8.

 

ANNUAL REVIEW OF DRIVING RECORD

391.25

9.

 

CHECKLIST FOR MULTIPLE EMPLOYER

391.51(d)

*NOTE: DRIVERS MUST BE ISSUED COPIES OF THESE CERTIFICATES. DRIVERS NEED ONLY HAVE A COPY OF THE MEDICAL EXAMINER’S CERTIFICATE IN THEIR POSSESSION WHILE DRIVING.

1

(enter company name)

(enter address)

__________________

(enter phone number)

COMMERCIAL DRIVER APPLICATION

FILL IN ALL BLANKS & PROVIDE ALL INFORMATION REQUESTED--PRINT OR TYPE

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Date: _______________________

Name:

First_____________________ Middle_________________ Last______________________________________

Address _________________________________________________

 

Home telephone: _____________________

City_______________________ State _______ Zip ___________

Cellular telephone: _____________________

Date of Birth: ____________________________

Social Security Number: _______ - _______ - __________

 

 

 

 

 

 

If your above address is less than 3 years continue listing them below to cover the previous 3 year period:

1

Street_________________________________________________

Dates: From_________ To_________

City_______________________ State _______ Zip ___________

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

2 Street_________________________________________________ Dates: From_________ To_________

City_______________________ State _______ Zip ___________

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

3

Street_________________________________________________

Dates: From_________ To_________

 

City_______________________ State _______ Zip ___________

 

 

Use backside of sheet for additional addresses

Driver’s License Information: all licenses held, last 3 years:

State_______________ Number___________________________________________ Expiration Date _______________

State_______________ Number___________________________________________ Expiration Date _______________

State_______________ Number___________________________________________ Expiration Date _______________

Experience:

 

 

__________________________________

________________ to ________________

____________________________

Type of vehicle driven

Dates

Approximate mileage driven

__________________________________

________________ to ________________

____________________________

Type of vehicle driven

Dates

Approximate mileage driven

__________________________________

________________ to ________________

____________________________

Type of vehicle driven

Dates

Approximate mileage driven

All Accidents, last 3 years: (If none, write NONE)

Date________________ Describe_______________________________ Fatalities_____________ Injuries_____________

Date________________ Describe_______________________________ Fatalities_____________ Injuries_____________

Date________________ Describe_______________________________ Fatalities_____________ Injuries_____________

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revised 08/04

List all Traffic Violations Convictions, last 3 years: (If none, write NONE)

 

 

 

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

Date______________ Violation____________________________________ State_______ Commercial Vehicle: Yes / No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you ever had any driver license denied, suspended, revoked or canceled by any issuing state agency?

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

If yes; state of issuance; explanation: ___________________________________________________

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Employment History, last 10 years (383.35)—account for gaps between employers: (If owner/operator, list carriers leased to)

 

1)

Employer:_____________________________________________

Dates: ________________to________________

 

 

Address: _____________________________________________

Supervisor: ______________________________

 

 

City, State, Zip code:____________________________________

Telephone: ______________________________

 

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

 

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

 

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

 

2)

Employer:_____________________________________________

Dates: ________________to________________

 

 

Address: ___________________________________________ Supervisor:________________________________

 

 

City, State, Zip code: ____________________________________

Telephone: ______________________________

 

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

 

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

 

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July2003,dlnm

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

revised 08/04

3)Employer:_____________________________________________ Dates: ________________to________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Supervisor: ______________________________

City, State, Zip code: _____________________________________Telephone: ______________________________

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

4)Employer:_____________________________________________ Dates: ________________to________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Supervisor:________________________________

City, State, Zip code______________________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

5)Employer:_____________________________________________ Dates: ________________to________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Supervisor: ______________________________

City, State, Zip code:_____________________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

6) Employer:_____________________________________________ Dates: ________________to________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Supervisor: ______________________________

City, State, Zip Code:_____________________________________Telephone: ______________________________

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

revised 08/04

4

 

July2003,dlnm

 

7) Employer:_____________________________________________ Dates: ________________to________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Supervisor: ______________________________

City, State, Zip code:_____________________________________ Telephone: ______________________________

Were you subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations during this period?

Yes

No

Were you subject to 49 CFR part 40 controlled substance and alcohol testing during this period?

Yes

No

Reason for Leaving: __________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Use backside of sheet for additional employers

For driver applicants of commercial motor vehicles that require a Commercial Driver License (CDL) the applicant must disclose their controlled substance and alcohol status per the requirements of 49 CFR part 40.25(j).

As a prospective driver employee, you have the right to review information provided by previous employers. You have the right to have errors in the information corrected by the previous employer(s) and for that previous employer(s) to re -send the corrected information to the prospective employer; the right to have a rebuttal statement attached to the alleged erroneous information, if the previous employer and the driver cannot agree on the accuracy of the information.

Driver employees who have previous Department of Transportation regulated employment history in the preceding three years, and wish to review previous employer provided investigative information, must submit a written request to the prospective employer, which may be done at anytime, including when applying or as late as thirty (30) days after being employed or being notified of denial of employment. The prospective employer must provide this information to the applicant within five (5) business days of receiving the written request. If the prospective employer has not yet received the requested information from the previous employer(s), then the five (5) business day deadlines will begin when the prospective employer receives the requested safety performance history information. If the driver has not arranged to pick up or receive the requested records within thirty (30) days of the prospective employer making them available, the prospective motor carrier may consider the driver to have waived their request to review the records.

Certification

“I certify that this application was completed by me, and that all entries on it and information in it are true and complete to the best of my knowledge.”

___________________________________________________________

__________________________________

Applicant’s Signature

 

Date Signed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TO BE COMPLETED BY THE EMPLOYER:

 

 

 

Application received by:

 

Application reviewed for completeness by:

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

Name

 

Name

 

 

_________________________

_______________

__________________________

_______________

Title

Date

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNIFICANT DATES:

Date of Hire:

 

_____________________________________

 

 

 

Time & Date of Pre-Employment CST:

 

_____________________________________

 

Time & Date of Pre-Employment CST Results Received:

_____________________________________

 

Date First Used in Safety Sensitive Position:

_____________________________________

 

Date of Termination:

 

_____________________________________

revised 08/04

5

July2003,dlnm

(enter company name)

___________________________

(enter address)

__________________

(enter phone number)

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DRIVER APPLICANT

Controlled Substance and Alcohol Questionnaire

Pursuant to 49 CFR part 40.25(j)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

 

Application Date _______________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name ______________________

_______________________

______________________________________

 

 

First

 

 

Middle

 

Last

 

 

 

 

Address _________________________________________________

Home Telephone

_____________________

 

 

City_______________________ State _______ Zip ___________

Cell Telephone

_____________________

 

 

Date of Birth

____________________________

Social Security Number ________ - ________ - ________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

49 CFR 40.25(j)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you ever tested positive, or refused to test, on any pre -employment

 

 

 

 

drug or alcohol test administered by an employer to which you applied

YES

NO

 

 

for, but did not obtain, safety-sensitive transportation work covered by

 

 

 

 

 

 

DOT agency drug and alcohol testing rules during the past two years?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If YES —

 

Have you successfully completed the return-to-duty

YES

NO

 

 

 

process?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Documentation MUST BE PROVIDED before any

safety-sensitive

 

 

If YES —

 

transportation function is performed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

___________________________________________________________

__________________________________

Applicant’s Signature

Date Signed

TO BE COMPLETED BY EMPLOYER:

………………………………………………………………….……………………….………………………………………...

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

Received by:

 

Reviewed by:

 

____________________

_______________

____________________

_______________

Title:

Date:

Title:

Date:

July2003,dlnm

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revised 08/04

 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require all previous employers of this applicant to respond to this request for information within 30 days. Failure to comply with this request is in violation of 49CFR 391.23 and 40.25, for which you may be prosecuted. Questions concerning the requirements of this regulation should be directed to the Minnesota Division Office of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration at 651-291-6150, during business hours.

TO:

(enter former employer's name)

 

________________________________________________ DATE: _________________

 

Former Employer’s Name

 

 

(enter mailing address)

 

 

Mailing Address

 

 

(enter city / state / zip)

 

 

City / State / Zip

 

 

_____________________

(enter fax number)

 

Telephone #

Fax Number

(enter name)

I, ______________________________, hereby authorize ___________________________ to release to all records of

employment, including assessments of my job performance, ability, and fitness, including the dates of any and all alcohol or drug tests, with confirmed results, and/or my refusal to submit to any alcohol and drug tests and any

rehabilitation completion under direction of Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and/or Medical Review Officer (MRO) to each and every company (or their authorized agents) making such request in connection with my application for employment with said company. I, hereby, release the above named company, and its employees, officers, directors, and agents from any and all liability of any type as a result of providing the following information to the below mentioned person and/or company.

Applicant’s Signature & Date

_______________________________

___________________

Witness’s Signature & Date

_______________________________

___________________

 

 

 

REQUEST FROM:

(enter company name)

Company:

_______________________________________________________

Address/City/State/Zip:

_______________________________________________________

Telephone Number:

(enter phone number) Fax Number: (enter fax number)

Contact Person & Title

_________________________________

_____________________

NAME OF APPLICANT:

_________________________________ SSN _________________

JOB APPLYING FOR:

_______________________________________________________

INQUIRY INTO EMPLOYMENT HISTORY, PRECEDING 3 YEARS

Did applicant work for you as a ____________________________ from ____/____/____ to ____/____/____ YES or NO IF NO, please explain:

_______________________________________________________________________________

If employed as driver, please answer the following: Company Driver? ______ Owner/Operator? ______ Other? ______

Type of truck(s) and/or truck/tractor(s) operated: ______________________________________________________

Commodities transported: ____________________________ Area of operations: ____________________________

Accidents? YES or NO IF YES, please give date(s) and brief description of each accident:

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Why did this employee leave your company?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Would you re-employ this person? YES or NO IF NO, please explain:

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Additional comments:

__________________________________________________________________________________________

INQUIRY FOR ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES INFORMATION, PRECEDING 2 YEARS

 

 

 

 

Alcohol tests with a result of 0.04 or greater? ……….

YES or NO

If yes, please give date(s): ________________

Verified positive controlled substances test results? …

YES or NO

If yes, please give date(s): ________________

Refusals to be tested? …………………………………

YES or NO

If yes, please give date(s): ________________

Was rehabilitation completed as required? …………...

YES or NO

If yes, please give date(s): ________________

Person providing the above information:

Name: ________________________________________________ Title: ______________________________

Company: ________________________________________________ Date: ______________________________

revised 08/04

7

(enter employer

name and

information

here)

Driver's Name

Driver's Operators Lic. No.

Driver's Social Sec. No.

Dear

The above listed individual has made application with us for employment as a driver. Applicant has indicated that the above numbered operator's license or permit has been issued by your State to applicant and that it is in good standing.

In accordance with Section 391.23(a)(1) and (b) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, we are required to make inquiry into the driving record during the preceding 3 years of every State in which an applicant-driver has held a motor vehicle operator's license or permit during those 3 years.

Therefore, please certify to us what the individual's driving record is for the preceding 3 years, or certify that no record exists if that be the case.

In the event that this inquiry does not satisfy your requirements for making such inquiries, please send us such forms of yours as are necessary for us to complete our inquiry into the driving record of this individual.

Respectfully yours,

(printed) name of person making inquiry

Title of person making inquiry

(enter company name)

Motor Carrier Name

(enter address)

Street

City

State

Zip

revised

08/04

8

MEDICAL EXAMINER’S CERTIFICATE

I certify that I have examined ______________________________ in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety

Regulations (49 CFR 391.41-391.49) and with knowledge of the driving rules, I find this person is qualified, and, if applicable,

only when:

 

￿ wearing corrective lenses

￿ driving within an exempt intracity zone (49 CFR 391.62)

￿ wearing hearing aid

￿ accompanied by a Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate (SPE)

￿ accompanied by a ____________waiver/exemption

￿ qualified by operation of 49 CFR 391.64

The information I have provided regarding the physical examination is true and complete. A complete examination form with any attachment embodies my findings completely and correctly, and is on file in my office.

Signature of Medical Examiner

 

Telephone

 

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical Examiner’s Name (Print)

 

￿MD

￿DO

￿ Chiropractor

 

 

 

￿Physician

 

￿ Advanced

 

 

 

Assistant

 

Practice Nurse

Medical Examiner’s License or Certificate No. / Issuing State

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature of Driver

 

 

Driver’s License No.

 

State

 

 

PLE

 

 

 

 

M

 

 

 

 

Address of Driver

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical Certificate Expiration Date

 

 

 

 

 

SA

 

 

 

 

9

DRIVER’S ROAD TEST EXAMINATION

Driver’s Name: _______________________________________________________________________

Driver’s Address: _____________________________________________________________________

City: ________________________________________ State: ______________ Zip: _______________

The road test shall be given by the motor carrier or a person designated by it. However, a driver who is a motor carrier must be given the test by another person. The test shall be given by a person who is competent to evaluate and determine whether the person who takes the test has demonstrated that he or she is capable of operating the vehicle and associated equipment that the motor carrier intends to assign.

Rating of Performance

 

__________________

The pre-trip inspection (as required by 49 CFR 392.7).

__________________

Coupling and uncoupling of combination units, if the equipment he or she

 

may drive includes combination units.

__________________

Placing the equipment in operation.

__________________

Use of vehicle’s controls and emergency equipment.

__________________

Operating the vehicle in traffic and while passing other vehicles.

__________________

Turning the vehicle.

__________________

Braking and slowing the vehicle by means other than braking.

__________________

Backing and parking the vehicle.

__________________

Other, explain: _______________________________________________

Type of equipment used in giving the test: _________________________________________________

Examiner’s signature: _____________________________________ Date: ______________________

Remarks:

If the road test is successfully completed, the person who gave it shall complete a certificate of driver’s road test.

10

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Driver Application Requirement The Driver Qualification form requires a completed driver application for employment as per 49 CFR 391.21.
Previous Employer Inquiry Employers must inquire about the driver's employment history for the past three years, as mandated by 49 CFR 391.23(a)(2) & (c).
State Agency Inquiry Employers are required to conduct inquiries to state agencies regarding the driver's record according to 49 CFR 391.23(a)(1) & (b).
Medical Examiner's Certificate Drivers must provide a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate, as stated in 49 CFR 391.43, along with any medical waivers if applicable.
Annual Review Requirement An annual review of the driver's record is required under 49 CFR 391.25, ensuring ongoing compliance with safety regulations.

Driver Qualification: Usage Guidelines

Completing the Driver Qualification form is a crucial step in your journey toward becoming a commercial driver. This form gathers essential information about your driving history, employment background, and qualifications. Follow these steps carefully to ensure all necessary details are accurately provided.

  1. Begin by entering the company name, address, and phone number at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the date of application.
  3. Provide your full name: first, middle, and last.
  4. Enter your address, including city, state, and zip code.
  5. List your home telephone and cellular telephone numbers.
  6. Include your date of birth and Social Security Number.
  7. If you have lived at your current address for less than three years, provide your previous addresses for that period.
  8. Fill out your driver’s license information for all licenses held in the last three years, including the state, number, and expiration date.
  9. Detail your driving experience, including the type of vehicle driven, dates of employment, and approximate mileage driven.
  10. List all accidents you've had in the last three years, providing dates and descriptions. If none, write "NONE."
  11. Document all traffic violations in the last three years, including dates and details. If none, write "NONE."
  12. Indicate if your driver’s license has ever been denied, suspended, revoked, or canceled. If yes, provide details.
  13. Outline your employment history for the last ten years, including employer names, dates of employment, addresses, supervisors, and whether you were subject to federal regulations.
  14. Complete the certification section by signing and dating the application, confirming that all information is accurate.
  15. Finally, ensure that the employer completes their section, noting the application receipt and review details.

Once the form is filled out completely, it should be submitted to the appropriate employer or agency for review. Be sure to keep a copy for your records, as this documentation is vital for your driving career.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the Driver Qualification form?

The Driver Qualification form is designed to collect essential information about a driver's qualifications and history. It ensures compliance with federal regulations, specifically those outlined in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines. This form helps employers assess a driver's eligibility for operating commercial motor vehicles, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance within the industry.

What documents are required to complete the Driver Qualification form?

To complete the Driver Qualification form, several documents must be provided. These include a driver application for employment, inquiries to previous employers and state agencies, a medical examiner's certificate, and a certification of the driver's road test. Additionally, an annual driver’s certificate of violations and an annual review of the driving record are necessary. Drivers must ensure they have copies of the required certificates, particularly the medical examiner's certificate while driving.

How long of a driving history must be disclosed on the form?

Applicants are required to disclose their driving history for the past three years. This includes listing all addresses, licenses held, and any accidents or traffic violations within that timeframe. Providing accurate and complete information is crucial for the evaluation process.

What should I do if I have gaps in my employment history?

If there are gaps in your employment history, it is important to account for them on the form. Applicants should provide explanations for any periods of unemployment or transitions between jobs. This transparency helps employers understand the applicant's work history and any potential concerns regarding employment continuity.

What rights do I have regarding the information provided by previous employers?

As a prospective driver employee, you have the right to review the information provided by previous employers. If you find any errors, you can request corrections, and the previous employer is obligated to send the corrected information to your prospective employer. Additionally, you can attach a rebuttal statement if there is a disagreement about the accuracy of the information.

What happens if I do not receive the requested records from previous employers?

If you do not receive the requested safety performance history information from previous employers within thirty days of your request, the prospective motor carrier may consider you to have waived your right to review the records. It is essential to follow up on these requests to ensure compliance with your rights under the regulations.

What is the significance of the medical examiner's certificate?

The medical examiner's certificate is a crucial document that verifies a driver's medical fitness to operate commercial vehicles. It ensures that drivers meet the health standards set by the FMCSA. Drivers must carry a copy of this certificate while driving to confirm their eligibility and compliance with safety regulations.

How does the certification statement at the end of the form work?

The certification statement at the end of the Driver Qualification form requires the applicant to affirm that the information provided is true and complete to the best of their knowledge. This signature serves as a legal acknowledgment of the accuracy of the information, which can have implications for employment eligibility and compliance with regulations.

What should I do if I have traffic violations or accidents in my history?

If you have traffic violations or accidents within the last three years, you must disclose this information on the form. It is advisable to provide detailed descriptions of each incident, including dates and outcomes. Transparency about your driving record allows employers to assess your qualifications accurately and fairly.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill out all sections of the form can lead to delays. Ensure every blank is completed, including addresses, phone numbers, and dates.

  2. Incorrect Dates: Listing the wrong dates for previous employment or addresses can create confusion. Double-check to make sure all dates are accurate and correspond to the correct information.

  3. Missing Signatures: Forgetting to sign the application can result in it being rejected. Always sign and date the form before submission.

  4. Omitting Traffic Violations: Not disclosing all traffic violations, even minor ones, can be seen as dishonest. Be transparent about your driving history to avoid complications later.

  5. Ignoring Previous Employment Gaps: Failing to account for gaps in employment history can raise red flags. Make sure to explain any periods of unemployment clearly.

  6. Not Providing Copies of Required Documents: Forgetting to include necessary documents, like the Medical Examiner’s Certificate, can delay the hiring process. Always check the checklist to ensure you have all required paperwork.

Documents used along the form

When hiring drivers, several important documents are typically used alongside the Driver Qualification form. Each of these documents plays a crucial role in ensuring that the driver meets the necessary qualifications and adheres to safety regulations. Below is a list of common forms and documents that are often required in this process.

  • Driver Application for Employment: This form gathers essential personal information, including the applicant's work history, driving experience, and any prior traffic violations. It serves as the foundation for assessing a candidate's qualifications.
  • Inquiry to Previous Employers: This document allows the prospective employer to request information about the applicant's work history from previous employers over the last three years. It helps verify the applicant's experience and reliability.
  • Inquiry to State Agencies: Employers use this form to obtain driving records from state agencies. It provides insight into the applicant's driving history, including any accidents or violations.
  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate: This certificate confirms that the driver has passed a medical examination, ensuring they are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. If applicable, a medical waiver may also be included.
  • Driver’s Road Test: A practical assessment of the driver's skills, this test evaluates their ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. It is a critical step in the qualification process.
  • Certification of Road Test: This document certifies that the driver has successfully completed the road test. It is an important record that confirms the driver's competency behind the wheel.
  • Annual Driver’s Certificate of Violations: This certificate is required annually and documents any traffic violations the driver has incurred over the past year. It helps maintain ongoing compliance with safety regulations.
  • Annual Review of Driving Record: Employers conduct this review to assess the driver’s performance and safety record over the past year. It is essential for ongoing driver qualification and safety management.
  • Checklist for Multiple Employer: This checklist is used when a driver has worked for multiple employers. It ensures that all necessary documentation and qualifications are accounted for across different positions.

These documents collectively contribute to a thorough evaluation of a driver's qualifications and safety record. By ensuring that all required forms are completed and reviewed, employers can better protect their business and promote safe driving practices on the road.

Similar forms

The Driver Qualification form shares similarities with several other important documents in the transportation industry. Each document serves a specific purpose related to driver qualifications and safety. Below is a list of these documents and how they relate to the Driver Qualification form.

  • Driver Application for Employment (391.21): This document gathers personal and professional information from the driver, similar to the Driver Qualification form, which also collects essential details about the applicant's background.
  • Inquiry to Previous Employers (391.23(a)(2) & (c)): This inquiry checks the driver's work history, paralleling the Driver Qualification form's requirement for employment history over the past ten years.
  • Inquiry to State Agencies (391.23(a)(1) & (b)): Both documents aim to verify the driver's credentials and ensure compliance with state regulations.
  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate (391.43): This certificate confirms the driver's medical fitness, similar to the medical evaluations required in the Driver Qualification form.
  • Driver’s Road Test (391.31): The road test assesses a driver's skills, akin to the certification requirements outlined in the Driver Qualification form.
  • Certification of Road Test (391.31): This certification verifies that the driver has passed the road test, which aligns with the qualifications outlined in the Driver Qualification form.
  • Annual Driver’s Certificate of Violations (391.27): This certificate documents any violations, similar to how the Driver Qualification form requires disclosure of traffic violations over the past three years.
  • Annual Review of Driving Record (391.25): This review ensures ongoing compliance with safety standards, reflecting the continuous assessment process established in the Driver Qualification form.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Driver Qualification form, it’s important to be thorough and accurate. Here are five things you should do and five things you should avoid:

  • Do: Fill in all blanks completely. Ensure every section has the necessary information.
  • Do: Use clear and legible handwriting or type your responses. This helps prevent misunderstandings.
  • Do: Double-check your Social Security number and dates. These details must be correct.
  • Do: List all previous employers accurately. This includes providing dates and reasons for leaving.
  • Do: Sign and date the application. Your signature confirms that the information is true.
  • Don't: Leave any sections blank. Incomplete forms can delay the application process.
  • Don't: Provide false information. Misrepresentation can lead to disqualification.
  • Don't: Forget to include all addresses from the last three years. Omitting this information may raise questions.
  • Don't: Rush through the form. Take your time to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  • Don't: Ignore the instructions regarding medical certificates and testing. Compliance is essential.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The Driver Qualification form is only for new drivers.
  • This form is required for all drivers, whether they are new hires or returning employees. It ensures that all drivers meet the necessary qualifications.

  • Misconception 2: Only the employer is responsible for completing the form.
  • Both the driver and the employer play important roles in completing the Driver Qualification form. The driver must provide accurate information, while the employer verifies and reviews it.

  • Misconception 3: Medical examiner’s certificate is optional.
  • The medical examiner’s certificate is mandatory for drivers operating commercial vehicles. It confirms that the driver meets health standards necessary for safe driving.

  • Misconception 4: Previous employment history is not important.
  • Employers need a complete employment history to assess a driver's qualifications and safety record. This information helps ensure that drivers have the necessary experience.

  • Misconception 5: Drivers do not need to keep copies of their certificates.
  • Drivers must keep copies of their medical examiner’s certificate and other relevant documents. This is important for compliance and safety checks.

  • Misconception 6: Traffic violations do not need to be reported if they are minor.
  • All traffic violations must be reported, regardless of severity. This helps maintain transparency and ensures that all driving records are accurate.

  • Misconception 7: The form can be completed quickly without thoroughness.
  • Completing the Driver Qualification form requires careful attention to detail. Inaccurate or incomplete information can lead to delays or disqualification.

  • Misconception 8: Drivers can ignore the annual review of their driving record.
  • The annual review is a legal requirement. It helps ensure that drivers maintain a safe driving record and comply with regulations.

  • Misconception 9: Drivers can skip the road test if they have previous experience.
  • All drivers must complete a road test to demonstrate their driving skills, regardless of past experience. This is essential for safety on the road.

  • Misconception 10: Once the form is submitted, it does not need to be updated.
  • The Driver Qualification form should be updated regularly, especially if there are changes in driving status, medical conditions, or violations. Keeping it current is crucial for compliance.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Driver Qualification form is a critical step for anyone seeking employment as a commercial driver. Understanding the requirements and processes involved can ease the burden of compliance. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Complete All Sections: Ensure that every section of the form is filled out completely. Incomplete applications may delay the hiring process.
  • Previous Employment: Provide detailed information about your employment history for the last ten years, including gaps between jobs.
  • Accurate Information: Report all accidents and traffic violations from the last three years accurately. This transparency is crucial for your application.
  • Medical Certification: Include a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate. If a medical waiver has been issued, it must also be attached.
  • Road Test Certification: Submit proof of a completed driver’s road test, along with the certification of that test.
  • Annual Reviews: Be aware that annual reviews of your driving record and violations are required to maintain compliance.
  • Right to Review: You have the right to review information provided by previous employers and request corrections if needed.
  • Submission Timelines: Employers must provide requested information within five business days of receiving your written request.
  • Certification of Truthfulness: Sign the application to certify that all information provided is true and complete. This is a legal affirmation of your honesty.

Understanding these points can help streamline the application process and ensure compliance with federal regulations. Take your time to review and complete the form carefully.