Driving Record Red Flags: What Employers Should Know
When hiring commercial drivers or employees who operate vehicles, reviewing motor vehicle records is essential. A candidate’s driving history can reveal patterns of risk — and help protect your company from liability, accidents, or FMCSA violations.
Let’s explore the most common red flags in driving records, why they matter, and how employers can interpret this data to make smarter hiring decisions.
🚨 What Are Driving Record Red Flags?
Red flags are warning signs that show up in a candidate’s motor vehicle report (MVR). These issues may point to:
Poor judgment
Unsafe behavior
Repeated rule-breaking
Lack of reliability
Identifying red flags early helps reduce risk and protect your team, fleet, and the public.
🛑 Common Driving Record Red Flags Employers Should Watch
1. Multiple Moving Violations
A pattern of traffic citations (e.g., speeding, failure to yield, running stop signs) suggests a disregard for driving laws and may lead to higher accident risk.
2. Suspended or Revoked License
A current or recent suspension shows a serious lapse in driving eligibility. Candidates must hold a valid license — especially for DOT-regulated roles.
3. DUI or DWI Convictions
Any alcohol- or drug-related offense is a major concern for safety-sensitive positions. Even one violation can be a disqualifier depending on your company’s risk policy or DOT compliance requirements.
4. Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Reckless driving charges — such as street racing or fleeing law enforcement — indicate dangerous tendencies that are not aligned with safe commercial operations.
5. Incomplete or Inconsistent Driving Records
Missing dates, gaps in driving history, or mismatched license info could point to identity issues or data manipulation. Always verify authenticity.
6. Outstanding Fines or Failure to Appear
Drivers with unpaid fines or missed court dates may not take their responsibilities seriously. These can be early signs of unreliable behavior.
7. Driving Without Insurance
Operating a vehicle without proper insurance can lead to legal trouble. It may also show disregard for risk management and financial responsibility.
8. History of Accidents
A consistent accident history may indicate poor spatial awareness or unsafe driving habits. Investigate the cause — was the driver at fault? Is there a pattern?
🧾 How to Evaluate Red Flags Objectively
Not every red flag means automatic disqualification. Here’s what you should consider:
How recent is the offense?
Was it a one-time mistake or part of a pattern?
Is the driver applying for a regulated position (e.g., DOT, CDL)?
Do your internal policies or industry guidelines allow for rehabilitation?
Always apply your review process consistently to avoid legal complications.
⚖️ Legal Considerations for Employers
When reviewing MVRs, employers must follow:
FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act): Must get written consent and notify applicants if you take adverse action
EEOC Guidelines: Ensure fair and non-discriminatory hiring practices
DOT/FMCSA Requirements: For regulated drivers, ensure MVRs are reviewed annually and kept on file
✅ Best Practices for Screening Driving Records
Screen all commercial drivers before hiring
Re-check MVRs annually (FMCSA requires this for DOT-regulated roles)
Use a trusted, FCRA-compliant provider
Document your review process
Apply your criteria consistently across all applicants
🚚 How Vertical Identity Can Help
We offer fast, FCRA-compliant driving record checks for employers across the U.S. Whether you’re hiring DOT drivers or anyone operating company vehicles, we’ll help you stay compliant and protect your brand.
✅ National MVR coverage
✅ Real-time alerts and annual reminders
✅ Integrated into your background screening workflow
✅ Bulk pricing and small fleet support
📞 Let’s Talk Driver Compliance
Whether you need a one-time MVR check or a complete DOT drug and alcohol program, we’ve got you covered.
📍 Visit verticalidentity.com
📱 Call us at (602) 899-1606
🧾 Stay ahead of risk. Hire smarter today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Record Red Flags
What are common driving record red flags employers look for?
Major red flags include DUI/DWI convictions, reckless driving, suspended licenses, multiple moving violations, and at-fault accidents. Vertical Identity’s background screening provides comprehensive MVR reports to identify these issues.
How far back do driving record checks go?
Most MVR checks cover 3-7 years depending on the state. DOT-regulated positions require reviewing the full available history. Vertical Identity can advise on the appropriate lookback period for your industry.
Can employers deny employment based on driving history?
Yes, for positions requiring driving, employers can make hiring decisions based on driving records. However, decisions should be job-related and consistent. Vertical Identity’s background screening services help establish compliant policies.
What is an MVR check and when is it required?
A Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check reviews a driver’s history including violations, accidents, and license status. It’s required for DOT-regulated positions and recommended for any driving roles. Vertical Identity’s compliance services include MVR monitoring.
How often should employers check driving records?
Best practice is annual MVR checks for all drivers, with more frequent checks for high-risk positions. Vertical Identity offers continuous MVR monitoring to catch issues as they occur rather than waiting for annual reviews.